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Bornholm, Denmark

Bornholm’s 6 most festive Christmas markets and events

Bespoke partnership with Destination Bornholm and Visit Denmark

Visit Bornholm’s Christmas markets and enjoy the island’s serenity

Christmas on Bornholm, Denmark’s sunniest island, is a magical blend of tradition, craftsmanship and festive cheer. As winter settles over the Baltic Sea, Bornholm’s charming towns – Rønne, Nexø, Svaneke and Gudhjem – come alive with twinkling lights, cosy markets and the inviting aroma of seasonal treats. Known for its artistic heritage and culinary excellence, the island transforms into a winter wonderland where local artisans, food producers and designers showcase their finest creations. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, discover unique handmade gifts and indulge in warming gløgg (mulled wine) and freshly baked treats. A Christmas visit to Bornholm promises authentic holiday charm, creativity and unforgettable Nordic winter experiences far from the ordinary festive rush.

Top photography courtesy of Kristoffer Linus and Destination Bornholm

How is Christmas celebrated on the Danish island of Bornholm?

Christmas in Bornholm is a magical time shaped by local creativity and a long standing tradition of craftsmanship. It all started in Nexø when renowned glass artist Pernille Bülow launched the island’s first Christmas market, setting a trend that continues today. Bornholms Julemarked in Nexø blends handcrafted ornaments, artisan gifts, foods and festive experiences that has inspired other towns on the island to create their own Christmas events.

Christmas in Bornholm has since evolved into a patchwork of themed markets and events. Tejn focuses on gourmet street food and craft beer, while Gudhjem’s festive harbour setting features artisanal ceramics and holiday decor. The island’s farms join in, offering locally made delicacies like smoked herring, preserves and award-winning chocolates. Each Christmas market makes a winter visit a journey through festive Danish design and culinary culture in a setting that feels unique and off the beaten track.

Photography courtesy of Destination Bornholm and The Nordic Nomad

When do the Christmas markets and events on Bornholm open, and how long do they run?

The festivities and Christmas markets commence with Storms Rum, with their Julesalon that usually kicks off in mid November. The rest of the Christmas markets join in late November and all run mostly on weekends until Christmas.

Keep an eye on social media and websites for each of the Christmas markets for updated information on business hours.

Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad

How do I best plan my visit to Christmas on Bornholm?

To make the most of Christmas in Bornholm, timing is everything. Aim to visit during peak festive weekends from late November to mid-December, when most markets and events are in full swing. Start by checking the Bornholm Event Calendar for specific market dates, as most run only on select weekends.

Book accommodation early. While being a magical winter destination, many hotels on Bornholm close for the winter season. Rønne, Nexø or Svaneke are towns where many key events happen. It is not necessary to stay in those particular towns as Bornholm is a small island, distances and driving times are short and traffic in winter is light.

Two of our favourite Christmas stays are Stammershalle Badehotel and Hotel Nordlandet. Read the article on the best hotels on the Danish island of Bornholm.

Photography courtesy of Kristoffer Linus and Destination Bornholm

01

Bornholms Julemarked

Notably, the Bornholms Julemarked in Nexø stands out. This market transforms the old fishing town of Nexø into a Christmas haven. Operating every Friday to Sunday int the period leading up to Christmas, it features cosy shops and a harbour area filled with wooden stalls offering local crafts and festive treats. The Nexø Christmas market features handcrafted glassware, ceramics, textiles and jewellery along with a selection of local delicacies, including smoked fish, cheeses and traditional baked goods.

Bornholms Julemarked
Nexø harbour
Nexø
Bornholm
Denmark

Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad and Destination Bornholm

02

Jul på Hjorts

Each December, Hjorths Fabrik in Rønne hosts a Christmas market that captures Bornholm’s rich ceramic heritage with holiday cheer. Set within the historic factory buildings, which have crafted ceramics for over 150 years, the market features artisans from ACAB, the island’s association of craftspeople, showcasing unique handmade gifts. In the garden you can roast marshmallows and cook pancakes over open fires in a super cosy setting. There’s also coffee and sweet treats available by Buchwald’s.

Hjorts Fabrik
Krystalgade 5
Rønne
Bornholm
Denmark

Photography courtesy of Destination Bornholm

03

Matter

Matter House of Craft in Nexø is well known for its annual Christmas table exhibitions, where different creators are invited to craft unique festive table settings. The beautifully designed displays are unveiled at specific dates each year, usually coinciding with Nexø’s Bornholms Julemarked event. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine and seasonal treats while exploring the inspiring table arrangements that are all created by local artisans.

Matter
Nordre Strandvej 2
Nexø
Bornholm
Denmark

Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad

04

Julesalon

Each weekend from mid November to Christmas, Storms Rum just outside Nexø hosts its enchanting Julesalon. Set within the rustic charm of Knarregård farm, this event showcases handcrafted Bay & Storm lamps, beautiful home décor and curated interior pieces that embody Nordic aesthetics and natural beauty. During the events, you are invited to gather around the long table, fostering a sense of community while exploring the artistry of Charlotte Storm and fellow artisans. The Julesalon offers a serene retreat from the winter chill, providing inspiration for thoughtful gifts and festive home embellishments in a rustic, cosy and beautifully decorated space.

Storms Rum
Ibskervej 25
Nexø
Bornholm
Denmark

Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad

05

Christmas Farmer’s Market

While in Nexø, don’t forget to swing by the Christmas Farmer’s Market, located inconspicously in a small industrial estate. It centres around food and drink made locally by enthusiastic and skilled artisans. Lucy’s Bakery, whose reputation has spread far and wide, is located on the premises along with coffee roastery Bean Buddy. The micro producers featured here draw a discerning crowd. You will rub shoulders with the local community of restaurateurs and chefs, who all gather here for some foodie gossip.

Lucy’s Bakery
Gl Rønnevej 17D
Nexø
Bornholm
Denmark

Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad

06

Smedjens Julemarked

Located at Smedjen Streetfood & Events on Tejn’s industrial harbor, this indoor Christmas market provides a warm embrace from the winter chill. Open on the weekends, it showcases local produce, arts and crafts. Try a hearty burger, buy some excellent cider by Pilegård Cideri or splurge on some beautiful and intricate jewellery from Kaori Juzu. Of course you can enjoy traditional Danish Christmas treats like homemade gløgg (mulled wine) and æbleskiver (fried light batter, like a doughnut), with the bar and street food remaining open beyond market hours.

Smedjen
Havnevej 7
Tejn
Bornholm
Denmark

Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad

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