Even if 25 December is already blocked in many calendars, it’s still uncertain whether the Christmas markets will take place, given the current health pandemic.

Organisers of the Cologne Christmas market announced on Thursday its cancellation this year, fearing what might become chaotic situations in the event that people were to queue at the various stands.

What’s more, German authorities are discussing possible new covid-19 health measures which could potentially mean the cancellations will be more far-reaching. 

Trier’s website still provides information on its Christmas market this year, scheduled to take place 23 November through 22 December.

Metz, Lux in flux

Another popular market in the greater region is the one in Metz which is, according to its organiser, "in total expectation" of still holding the event. If the new mayor François Grosdidier seems in favor of holding the Christmas market, it will be up to the Moselle prefect to decide. However, Laurent Touvet only took office last Monday.

"We are awaiting instructions on whether we can launch a similar organisation to that of last year or work on a new version," explains Pascal Schons, director of the Fédération des commerçants of Metz. "Our desire is to organise the Christmas market," he insists.

But time is running out. Although the Christmas season might seem far away, it’s another story for the organisers themselves. "Normally, at this time of the year, 90% of the stands are already booked and we’re about to start printing the posters," Schons says. One thing is certain for now: if he receives the prefect’s green light for the Christmas market, he’ll have to work extra hard to be ready on time.

In Luxembourg, caution is being exercised, and Paperjam is being told that "at the moment, the City cannot yet comment on this subject". In any case, its website currently states that the Winterlights are scheduled from 20 November through 3 January. It remains to be seen, however, whether the event will shine brightly or take place in a different capacity, a bit like the Braderie sales scheduled for Monday or the substitute Schueberfouer, taking place this year as mini fairs around different districts until 13 September.

This article was originally published in French on Paperjam.lu and has been translated and edited for Delano.