On the first weekend of Advent , the LVR Open-Air Museum in Kommern offers a unique Advent program that appeals to all the senses: traditional Christmas cookies baked in the museum’s ovens, arts and crafts, music and fairy tales, lantern tours, and performances about the history of the Christmas tree invite visitors to marvel and immerse themselves in the experience.

Visitors can get a sense of how farming families used to prepare for Christmas. In the farmhouses’ parlors, pre-Christmas folk music fills the air, encouraging everyone to sing along. The entire museum and the historic houses are bathed in a cozy glow from natural light sources and lanterns, and traditional stories are told. In the old chapel, too, guests join the “farmwife” in singing Advent carols. In the craft room, children have the opportunity to make Christmas decorations and small gifts. Meanwhile, adults can practice traditional calligraphy for their Christmas cards in the old village school.

The scent of baked apples, speculoos, and printen wafts from the museum’s ovens, where they are freshly prepared right before guests’ eyes. Equally delicious are the aromas of hot chestnuts, honey cake, and Feuerzangenbowle, served by the hostesses at the Lower Rhine farmsteads. The many different artisans showcasing their traditional crafts also provide a unique experience: Watch how a broom is bound, how a blacksmith forges tools, or how a woodcarver works his wood. The lantern tours, which bathe the museum grounds in warm light, create a particularly atmospheric atmosphere. Finally, at the small Advent market inside and in front of the Pingsdorf dance hall, you’ll find leatherworkers, bookbinders, hand-knitted items, freshly made Advent wreaths, and other treasures.

Enjoy the festive atmosphere in the historic setting of the open-air museum!

In addition to “Advent for All the Senses,” the LVR Kommern Open-Air Museum also offers many other events throughout the year, such as the popular “Old-Time Fair,” “After the Harvest,” and “Zeitblende.” Thanks to its vividly presented history, it’s the ideal destination for families with children of all ages. The museum offers a discounted admission price for guests arriving by public transportation.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Admission: €13, discount for visitors arriving by public transportation
Location: Mechernich-Kommern, LVR Open-Air Museum Kommern, Eickser Str.
Info Phone: 02443. 99800
Email: kommern@lvr.de

Blogger’s Tip: Weltenkundler on the Christmas Market “Advent for All the Senses”