About Dresden Rough Nights
Dresden Rauhnächte – Medieval fair in the historic Stallhof
When the scent of incense wafts through centuries-old walls between Christmas and New Year's Eve, the legendary Dresden Rauhnächte begin. In the magical time between Christmas and Epiphany, the historic Stallhof courtyard of Dresden's Royal Palace is transformed into an atmospheric medieval market that attracts visitors from all over Germany to the Saxon capital.
Dates and opening hours
The Dresden Rauhnächte 2025/2026 will take place from 27 to 30 December 2025 and from 2 to 6 January 2026. The market is open daily from 11:00 to 21:30, and until 20:00 in the new year. On 6 January, the market closes at 18:00. The market is closed on 31 December and 1 January.
What can visitors expect?
The Stallhof, one of the few original tournament grounds in Europe, was built around 1591 and offers a unique backdrop. Nestled between the Royal Palace and the Frauenkirche, guests can expect an authentic medieval experience: over 50 merchants and craftsmen offer their wares for sale – using historical tools and materials and dressed in late medieval clothing.
Musicians, jugglers and fire-eaters perform daily on stage, providing lively entertainment. Fortune tellers and mysterious characters lend the Rauhnächte their mystical character. Grimm's fairy tales are performed for children, and visitors of all ages can try their hand at numerous crafts.
Particularly popular is the public bathhouse with two wooden bath tubs, in which up to eight people can enjoy a hot bath high above the heads of the market visitors. Those who prefer a more comfortable experience can reserve a place at the privileged princely table – with heated seat cushions in the covered arcade.
Admission and prices
Admission is €5.00 for adults and €3.00 for children. Preschool children are admitted free of charge. The admission fee ensures a pleasantly exclusive atmosphere without crowds.
Directions and location
The Stallhof is located on the Königsufer or Terrassenufer in 01067 Dresden, right next to the Dresden Striezelmarkt. Its central location in the city centre makes the market easily accessible by public transport.
A visit to the Dresden Rauhnächte is the perfect way to end the Christmas season – a journey back in time to the Middle Ages, filled with magic, craftsmanship and mystical tradition. Every year, over 100,000 visitors flock to the Stallhof, making the event one of the most popular medieval events in Saxony.
