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Sfeerbeeld Winter in Emmen

Winter in Emmen: A Season Full of Light, Warmth, and Coziness

Winter in Emmen has something special about it. The streets are festively lit, the evenings feel warmer, and there’s a wonderful atmosphere in the city center and the villages. Winter brings both lively bustle and tranquility: children ice skating, charming winter markets, leisurely walks through nature, and evenings filled with light and music.

Welcome to a season full of warmth, light, and fun! Experience winter the Emmen way!

Winter Activities in Emmen: Our Tips

From atmospheric light displays and ice-skating fun to heartwarming performances and nostalgic markets: winter in Emmen is packed with experiences. There’s always something to do for the whole family!

  • ATLAS Theater – warm up during a winter evening out with the finest theater, captivating music, or a magical family show.
  • Emmen on Ice – skate among festive lights, cheerful music, and the scent of warm drinks.
  • WILDnights at WILDLANDS – enjoy an enchanting evening where magical light shows, attractions, and atmospheric food courts create an unforgettable winter tradition.

Check the events calendar for an up-to-date overview of all events, dates, and times.

Sfeerbeeld Winter in Emmen
Sfeerbeeld Emmen on Ice
Sfeerafbeelding Emmen on Ice
Sfeerbeeld WILDnights in WILDLANDS

Christmas Markets & Christmas Spirit in Emmen

In December, the villages and the city center transform into warm, festive places filled with lights, treats, and social gatherings. Whether you’re browsing the stalls, stocking up for the holidays, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Christmas markets in our municipality feel familiar and personal.

  • Emmen Market —discover the market in a festive Christmas atmosphere on Friday, December 18, and get into the holiday spirit with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the tastiest ingredients for your Christmas dinner.
  • Emmen Christmas Market—discover the enchanting Christmas Market on Thursday, December 24, and enjoy twinkling lights, winter treats, and plenty of festive cheer in downtown Emmen.

Sunday Shopping Days in December in Emmen

Enjoy the relaxed winter Sundays in Emmen, where you can leisurely stroll among the warm lights, shop for Christmas gifts, and warm up in the cozy restaurants and cafes.

  • Emmen City Center— December13 , 20, and 27.
  • Klazienaveen City Center – December13 & 20.

Find out more about shopping in Emmenhere .

© Robert Smit Sfeerbeeld Winter in Emmen

Discover WILDnights at WILDLANDS

From December 18, 2026, through January 3, 2027, step into a magical world full of light, adventure, and winter cheer. Enjoy spectacular light projections, an XXL fountain show, attractions in the dark, a kid-friendly blacklight trail, and atmospheric food courts with live music.

Sfeerbeeld WILDnights in WILDLANDS
Sfeerbeeld WILDnights in WILDLANDS
Sfeerafbeelding derde kerstdag

More Winter Activities in Emmen

Discover even more winter activities in the municipality of Emmen! From atmospheric light tours and concerts to lively village festivals and family outings: you’ll always find a complete overview in our events calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter in Emmen

What is there to do in Emmen during the winter?

In winter, Emmen is bustling with activities! Enjoy ice skating at the rink, marvel at the magical light shows during WILDnights at WILDLANDS, or catch a heartwarming performance at the ATLAS Theater. You can also enjoy a lovely walk through nature, and the events calendar provides a complete overview of all events.

When are the Christmas markets in Emmen?

On Friday, December 18, visit the cozy Christmas market with its festive atmosphere, complete with Santa and Mrs. Claus. On Thursday, December 24, the center of Emmen transforms into a true winter wonderland full of twinkling lights and treats during the Christmas market.

When will WILDnights 2026 take place at WILDLANDS?

WILDnights takes place from December 18, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Experience an enchanting evening with fairy-tale-like light projections, an XXL fountain show, attractions in the dark, and atmospheric food courts.

When are the Sunday shopping days in December in Emmen?

In December, you can enjoy some extra special winter shopping for the holidays! The shopping centers are open on the following Sundays:

  • Emmen City Center: December 13, 20, and 27

  • Klazienaveen City Center: December 13 and 20

Where can I find the current list of winter events?

Want to know exactly what’s going on in terms of concerts, village festivals, or children’s activities? Check out our events calendar for all the latest dates, times, and locations.

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