Brașov Christmas Market 2026: dates and practical tips

The Brașov Christmas Market 2026 takes place in Council Square (Piața Sfatului): the stalls open on 27 November, the official opening and the lighting of the Christmas tree are on 30 November, and the last day is 3 January 2027. Below you'll find what has been announced so far, how to plan your visit and a few practical tips for cold December evenings.

Key dates for 2026

Brașov City Hall announced the market calendar in October. In short:

• 27–29 November – preview weekend. The stalls open three days before the official launch, so you can already buy seasonal products. The festive lights are not switched on yet that weekend.
• 30 November – official opening. On the opening evening the city's festive lights and the Christmas tree in Council Square are switched on, with a countdown.
• 3 January 2027 – last day. The market stays open after New Year's Eve, so you can still see it if you visit in the first days of January.

Daily opening hours and the list of concerts or shows had not been published when this article was written. Check the official announcements from Brașov City Hall before you go.

If you plan to visit between Christmas and New Year, keep in mind these are the busiest days of the year in the old town. Book your restaurant table in advance and come to the square early in the evening, before the crowds build up.

What you'll find at the market

The organisers announced more than 50 stalls in three zones: one for craftspeople, one for local producers and one for traders. Over 70% of the craft and producer stalls are reserved for people from Brașov and Brașov County, and craftspeople who use traditional, mostly handmade techniques got extra points in the selection.

So it's worth looking for handmade objects, decorations and local products, not just the usual souvenirs. As every year, there will also be seasonal food and hot drinks.

Host's tip: I always look for the local craftspeople's stalls first: a handmade decoration is the nicest small gift you can take home from Brașov. And I finish my round with a cup of mulled wine to stay warm on the way back.

Activities for children in St John's Square

Besides Council Square, the city announced activities for children in Piața Sfântul Ioan (St John's Square), a few minutes' walk away. The details have not been made public yet, but if you travel with kids, include this square in your walk.

How to plan your visit

When to go

• In the evening, after 30 November, to see the tree and the lights. It gets dark early in winter, so the evening atmosphere starts early too.
• On a weekday, if you want smaller crowds. December weekends and the days between Christmas and New Year are usually the busiest.
• On the 27–29 November weekend, if you'd rather shop for gifts quietly before the official opening.

What to bring

• Warm clothes, a hat and gloves: Council Square can get quite cold in the evening.
• Shoes with a non-slip sole for the cobblestones of the old town.
• A little cash for small purchases, in case a stall doesn't take cards.

Combine the market with a walk

The market is a good starting point for a walk through Brașov's historic center: the Black Church is right next to the square, Rope Street (Strada Sforii) is a few minutes away, and Republicii Street has cafés where you can warm up between rounds of the market.

Host's tip: After the market, I recommend La Ceaun to our guests. It's right in Council Square, serves Romanian food, and is warm inside, just steps from the stalls. In December, book your table in advance.

If you stay in the old town

The biggest advantage during the holidays is that you don't need a car. Our studios at Strada Mureșenilor 1 are just steps from Council Square (Piața Sfatului), so you can pop out to the market several times a day and get back into the warmth quickly. For late arrivals in December, our self check-in apartments near the Black Church mean you don't have to meet anyone at a fixed time to collect keys.

Host's tip: From our studios at Strada Mureșenilor 1 to the Christmas tree in the middle of the square is about a two-minute walk. You can pop out to the market even for half an hour, without any planning.

Frequently asked questions

When does the Brașov Christmas Market open in 2026?

The stalls open on 27 November 2026, and the official opening, with the lights and the Christmas tree, is on 30 November.

How long is the market open?

Until 3 January 2027, including after New Year's Eve.

Where is it?

In Council Square (Piața Sfatului), with children's activities in St John's Square (Piața Sfântul Ioan).

What are the daily opening hours?

They had not been announced at the time of writing. Check Brașov City Hall's official information before your visit.