The Nordics • See & do • Bornholm’s 6 most festive Christmas markets and events
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.
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
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
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
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Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad and Destination Bornholm
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Photography courtesy of Destination Bornholm
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Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad
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Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad
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Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad
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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.
Photography courtesy of The Nordic Nomad
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