The Castle Christmas Market at Satzvey has been one of the most beautiful historic Christmas markets in the Eifel region for many years , featuring a medieval nativity play. The festive atmosphere, with its sparkling lights, the scent of Christmas, and the castle’s historic charm, is sure to bring a sparkle to everyone’s eyes—not just the little ones. Stroll past market stalls where vendors offer their handmade goods and regional specialties. Whether it’s wooden toys, Christmas tree ornaments, nativity scenes, soaps, or incense—you’re sure to find the perfect gift or a souvenir for yourself here. The nativity play, modeled after the Staufer era in its design and elaborate costumes, has been performed several times a day in the castle park for over 15 years. Back then, most of the population could not read, so performances were used to bring the Christmas story to the people. Even today, the scenes are still performed in Latin and Middle High German; a narrator translates them into German for the audience and accompanies them with atmospheric bell ringing.

For children, Santa’s workshop offers the chance to drop their handwritten wish lists into the mailbox and see Santa and his elves, who are busily preparing gifts. Every now and then, they slip a sweet little treat into a child’s hood—fun for the whole family!

Like the other events at Satzvey—which also include the legendary Knights’ Festival—the Castle Christmas helps preserve the castle. Under the motto “Preservation through Entertainment,” the family of the Counts Beissel von Gymnich maintains the moated castle and presents it to the public with a varied program throughout the year. Those who wish to delve deeper into the castle’s history have the opportunity to take a guided tour and see the castle and its magnificent halls from the inside. The price for a guided tour is €5 for adults and €3 for children ages 4–12. Children under 4 years old may participate for free when accompanied by an adult. Additional events throughout the year invite you to visit.

Santa Claus and His Elves
Santa Claus will be on site with his elves to collect the children’s wish lists. His elves, dressed in their festive attire, will be bustling about, handing out the occasional sweet treat to visitors. In addition, stuffed animals and toys that have been donated and are now looking for a new home will be distributed. On Saturdays until 3:00 p.m., children can have their boots—which they’ve brought along—filled.

Nativity play several times a day: Saturdays between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., Sundays between 12:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Since this is an outdoor event, we recommend wearing sturdy (weather-resistant) footwear.
Satzvey Castle is located directly on the Cologne–Trier rail line, so it’s easy to get there by public transportation.

Hours: Sat. 12:00 PM–8:00 PM & Sun. 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
Cost: €15 (advance sale €12) adults, €12 (advance sale €10) students, €10 (advance sale €8) for children ages 4 and up, free for children under 4, €40 (advance sale €32) for families (2 adults & 2 children)
Location: Mechernich-Satzvey, Satzvey Castle, An der Burg 3
Info phone: 02256. 95830
Email: info@burgsatzvey.de