Thun Weihnachtsmarkt Winterstadt
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Advent season in Thun – A winter fairy tale

Let yourself be enchanted by the Advent atmosphere in Thun. The Christmas market, festive lights, Advent strolls and winter treats transform the town on Lake Thun into a little winter wonderland in the run-up to Christmas.

Festive moments in Thun’s old town

There is plenty to experience around Rathausplatz and in the illuminated town centre during Advent. Stroll through the Christmas market, discover special Advent activities or learn more about the town’s stories and legends on a guided tour. Mulled wine, punch and other winter specialities provide enjoyable breaks along the way. Activities such as ice stock sport also add variety to the Advent season in Thun.

Travel comfortably by train to Thun.

This year, the Advent season in Thun once again offers a variety of festive experiences. From the glowing Christmas tree and the Christmas market to cozy Advent strolls and sociable curling – Thun provides numerous activities to get you into the Christmas spirit. Be surprised by unique events such as the "Chlouse-Schwümme" and the Samichläuse on motorcycles, and enjoy a magical Advent season!

On Friday, 13 November 2026, starting at 15.00 hours, the Christmas Event will take place on Rathausplatz Thun. At 19.00 hours, the Thun Christmas tree will be lit in a festive ceremony and the Thun Christmas lights will also be switched on. The start of the Christmas season will be accompanied by speeches, entertainment for children, music, and food and drink. The event is free of charge.

Enjoy Thun in a pre-Christmas atmosphere on the Advent Stroll. During the tour of the festively illuminated city center, you’ll feel the Christmas spirit and learn stories and legends about Christmas and Advent traditions.

On this approximately two-hour tour, you’ll hear fascinating tales and legends about Christmas and Advent customs. Join the city guide for a leisurely walk and let the stories and magical lights captivate you. To conclude the exploration tour, a warming mulled wine or punch awaits you.

Public Tour "Advent stroll"

In 2026, public tours will take place on selected dates.
Meeting point: 17.30 hours at the Welcome Center at Thun train station.

  • Thursday, 26 November 2026
  • Wednesday, 2 December 2026
  • Thursday, 10 December 2026
  • Wednesday, 16 December 2026

CHF 25 per person (including mulled wine or punch); registration required: T +41 33 225 90 00 / thun@thunersee.ch

For more information, click here.

From 27 November to 23 December 2026, the Thun Christmas market creates a festive atmosphere and offers the perfect gifts. The market stretches from Waisenhausplatz to Mühleplatz in Thun. Take care of your Christmas shopping while strolling through the charming stalls between Waisenhausplatz and Mühleplatz.

Opening hours:

Mon–Sat   11.00–20.00 hours
Sun           11.00–18.00 hours

Thun Christmas market

Curling on Mühleplatz from 27 November to 28 December 2026 is the perfect winter activity with your friends or colleagues. Combine a visit to the Christmas market with a round of curling. CHF 50 – 1 lane for 1 hour (max. 8 people)

Opening hours:

Mon–Wed  17.00–20.00 hours
Thu–Sat     17.00–22.00 hours
Sun            12.00–18.00 hours

The rink will be closed on 24 and 25 December.

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On Saturday, 5 December 2026, at 13.00 hours, the Thun "Chlouse-Schwümme" will take place. Brave, weatherproof, and frost-resistant Santas and Mrs. Santas will dive into the Aare during the Christmas market. You can warm up in the hot tubs provided at the town hall square. Applications here.

13 December 2026 – Start of the "ChlouseRide" at 12.30 and 14.30 hours

The Santas of the Edelweiss Riders will ride their motorcycles through Thun's city center. Here is the route the Santas will take: Stadthofplatz–Bälliz–Guisanplatz–Aarestrasse–Maulbeerkreisel–Freienhofgasse–Lauitor–Obere Hauptgasse–Rathausplatz–Gerberngasse–Marktgasse–Kuhbrücke–Bälliz–Stadthofplatz.

Santas on motorcycles

You can find the exact event dates at the following link:

Numerous restaurants in downtown Thun, the Christmas market’s diverse food stalls, and other winter culinary pop-ups invite you to enjoy a culinary experience.

Travel comfortably by train to Thun.

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