Practical information about the Christmas town!
Please note that individual stores may have different opening hours — always check the individual store or the Chamber of Commerce website.
-
By car: Tønder is located in southwestern Denmark near the German-Danish border. The road into the town from the surrounding area is well signposted and public parking is close to the Christmas village.
-
Public transport: The city has a train station — Tønder Station — which connects to the region's train network.
-
Walking distance: The entire Christmas village area — pedestrian street, square and Christmas huts — is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from the parking areas.
OPENING HOURS
Saturday 10:00–17:00
Sunday 11:00–17:00
OPENING HOURS
Monday–Friday 12:00–17:00
Saturday 10:00–17:00
Sunday 11:00–17:00
When the cold weather sets in and darkness sets in, the historic town of Tønder in southwestern Jutland transforms into something almost like a fairy-tale Christmas village — Christmas town - TønderWith lights in the streets, cozy Christmas stalls, the smell of fir and warm Christmas experiences, this city is an obvious destination for families, couples and everyone who loves the Christmas atmosphere.
Historic city and atmosphere – Tønder has a charming old town center with cobblestone streets and beautiful old buildings, which form a perfect setting for Christmas decorations and atmospheric lighting.
🎄 Christmas Town Tønder – The magic of Christmas in Southern Jutland
Unique attractions – The Christmas town offers, among other things, a Christmas train, which runs on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as the spectacular “flying Santa Claus”, which can be seen over the roof of the tourist office.
Large Santa Claus parade and opening tradition – Christmas in Tønder kicks off with a festive procession from Kvickly Tønder to the square, accompanied by Santa Claus, elves and music.
Good accessibility & extended opening hours – During the Christmas season, the shops in the pedestrian zone are open all week, and everyone can combine shopping with experiences.
Authentic Christmas market & stalls – In the town square, Christmas huts are set up with handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, local specialties such as mulled wine, apple slices and hot drinks.
🎅 Julemandsoptog & officielt åbningsshow
On the official opening day — Saturday, November 8, 2025 — the festivities will start with a procession from Kvickly Tønder at approximately 1:00 PM towards Torvet. The procession will be followed by music, Santa Claus and elves, and the city will be ceremoniously opened at approximately 2:00 PM.
At the opening, most of the Christmas lights are turned on at the same time, and the Christmas town officially gets underway.
❄️ The Flying Santa Claus
One of Tønder's signature features is the “flying Santa Claus” that glides over the roof of the tourist office — an experience that many visitors describe as magical.
- On Thursdays, Santa Claus flies at 4:00 p.m.
- Fridays Santa Claus flies at 4:00 PM
- Saturdays Santa Claus flies at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM
- Sundays Santa Claus flies at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM
🚂 The Christmas train
The Christmas train runs every Saturday and Sunday until December 23rd and offers a charming tour through the city. Boarding is at the Square by the tourist office.
🛍️ Christmas huts and gift shops
In the Christmas huts on the square you can buy everything from hot drinks and Christmas snacks to homemade decorations and wooden products. The Christmas huts will be open every day during the period.
You will be able to find handicrafts in the form of clothing, art, decorations and lots of crafts.
Extra experiences in and around Tønder
Although the Tønder Christmas Village is an attraction in itself, it is worth spending an extra day or two exploring the area. Southern Jutland and the border region hide exciting history, nature and culture that can make your Christmas stay even more memorable.
🏖️ Rømø – Northern Europe's widest beach
If you want a day of fresh air and vast expanses, take a trip to Rømø, which is just a half-hour drive from Tønder.
Rømø is known for its huge beach, one of the widest in Northern Europe. Even in winter, it is an experience to walk along the sand, feel the wind and enjoy the silence.
Especially in winter, it is an experience to see the largest beach in the Nordic region covered in snow.
