Bringing Old-World Holiday Magic to Downtown: The Herndon WinterMarkt Returns December 12
Every December, the heart of Historic Downtown Herndon transforms into a bustling, illuminated German Christmas market. Steaming mugs of Glühwein, freshly baked stollen, authentic Bavarian pretzels, handcrafted wooden decorations, and live music fill the air along Lynn Street.
Now an established Northern Virginia holiday staple, the Herndon WinterMarkt returns on Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Produced by the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Town of Herndon, the festival celebrates the diverse heritage of our region while driving vital support to local businesses
Built by Community, Driven by Volunteers
While the market looks and feels like a centuries-old European village celebration, its engine is entirely local. The Herndon WinterMarkt is made possible each year through the dedication of a passionate committee of local volunteers working hand-in-hand with the Dulles Chamber team and Town staff
From organizing traditional entertainment -- including European dance troupes, choral performances, and visits from both St. Nicholas and Santa Claus -- to coordinating artisan vendors and local bakeries, this volunteer-led initiative embodies what makes the Dulles region unique: community collaboration that elevates everyone.
A Major Economic and Cultural Highlight for the Region
What began as an ambitious idea has quickly grown into one of the most recognized holiday events in the country, even earning recognition from the German Embassy as one of the most authentic markets in the United States
For the business community, the impact is tangible:
Over 10,000 Annual Visitors: Guests travel from throughout Northern Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland, filling downtown restaurants, shops, and vendor booths
Spotlighting Artisans and Entrepreneurs: Dozens of craftspeople, local merchants, food purveyors, and cultural performers gain direct access to a dedicated regional audience
Celebrating Heritage: With regional ties to international employers, ex-pats, and diverse civic groups, the market creates a shared cultural gathering place right on our historic town green
Join Us or Get Involved
Whether you plan to stroll with your family, sample authentic European delicacies, or finish your holiday shopping with regional makers, the Herndon WinterMarkt is the perfect way to kick off the festive season
When: Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Historic Downtown Herndon (Lynn Street)
Admission: Free and open to the public
Website:
www.herndonwintermarkt.com
A note to interested vendors: Vendor spaces are full for 2026. Submit an initial application on our website to be added to our waitlist.
Want to support the event? Sponsorship opportunities and event details are available online at herndonwintermarkt.com.