Advent (Christina Rossetti, 1858) 

This Advent moon shines cold and clear, 

These Advent nights are long; 

Our lamps have burned year after year, 

And still their flame is strong. 

As Advent continues, Luxembourg’s Christmas markets fill the season with light, music and festive aromas. Whether in the capital or in smaller towns, they are places of joy and togetherness. The glow of the markets and the scent of mulled wine create a festive atmosphere that many of us cherish year after year. Today, these markets are not only meeting points for families and friends, but also reflections of our cultural diversity. 

The Winterlights Festival in Luxembourg City hosts several markets: 

• Lëtzebuerger Chrëschtmaart on Place d’Armes
• Wantermaart on Place de la Constitution with its giant Ferris wheel
• Niklosmaart on Place de Paris 
• Wanterpark with its ice rink on the Kinnekswiss

Beyond the capital, many towns and villages host their own charming markets: 

• Esch-sur-Alzette with its festive chalets and concerts 
• Differdange known for its cozy atmosphere and local crafts 
• Clervaux with a market set against the backdrop of the castle 
• Vianden offering artisan products in a medieval setting,
• Useldingen and Remerschen, smaller village markets that highlight local traditions and community spirit

Each market has its own character – from bustling city squares to intimate village gatherings – and everywhere you’ll find specialties that warm both heart and soul. 

Among the most beloved treats are Gromperekichelcher (crispy potato fritters), mulled wine, hot chocolate and sweet pastries. Many stalls also offer regional products such as damson jam (Quetschekraut), honey, or handmade Advent wreaths. 

From the glow of the markets to the quiet of a reading corner, Advent offers many ways to experience warmth and community. This week’s book recommendation captures that spirit beautifully… 

Book Corner: Reading tip

A delightful new publication from Editions Phi is Chrëschtfeier am Zoo (Christmas Party at the Zoo). 

Christmas is approaching and the zoo director together with his assistant, the clever Pickchen, are busy preparing. Each animal is asked to give a gift to another, but since everyone chooses to share what they love most, this leads to a funny mixup. This charming book is all about giving and sharing, wrapped in humour and warmth. It’s a perfect read for families during Advent, reminding us that generosity and joy are at the heart of the season. 

Available here: Chrëschtfeier am Zoo – Editions Phi 

Stories bring us together during Advent — and so does music. After reading, let’s turn to songs that fill the season with joy. 

 

Music highlight

 

A fresh, familyfriendly choice is the CD Xmas Songs op Lëtzebuergesch from Jangli Film, a collection of Christmas songs sung in Luxembourgish by a children’s ensemble. 

It features joyful renditions of classics like Jingle Bell Rock, Feliz Navidad and De Rudi mat der rouder Nieschen. Traditional Luxembourgish songs such as An der grousser helljer Nuecht, Oh wat eng wonnerschéi Chrëschtdagszäit, and Et geschéie nach Wonner are also included. The album blends international favourites with local heritage, making it perfect for classrooms, family listening and festive gatherings. 

Available here: Jangli – Déi nei Chrëschtdags CD 

Of course, no festive season is complete without flavours that warm the heart. Here’s a recipe to bring the taste of the markets into your home. 

 

Isabelle’s Signature Gromperekichelcher 

Ingredients (makes about 14 fritters) 

• 800 g potatoes 
• 1 small shallot (for a milder, sweeter note than onion) 
• 2 eggs 
• 4 tbsp fine spelt flour (adds a nutty flavour and lighter texture) 
• 1 tsp baking powder (for extra crispness) 
• ½ tsp ground caraway seeds (Luxembourgish touch, subtle and aromatic) 
• Pinch of nutmeg 
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper 
• Oil for frying (sunflower or rapeseed) 

Optional garnish

• A spoonful of Quetschekraut (damson jam) alongside applesauce, for a sweetsavory pairing. 

Method 

1. Peel and grate the potatoes finely. Place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. 
2. Grate the shallot and mix it with the potatoes. 
3. Add eggs, flour, baking powder, caraway, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until you have a thick batter. 
4. Heat oil in a pan. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture, flatten slightly, and fry until golden brown on both sides. 
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm. 

 

Language Fun of the Week 

Did you know that in Luxembourgish, “Gromperekichelcher” literally means “little potato cakes”? 

Phonetic transcription (IPA): [ˈɡʀombəʀəˌkiːʃəlçɐ] 

Gromper = potato 

Kichelchen = little cake 

-cher = plural ending 

Gromperekichelcher — a tongue twister that tastes as good as it sounds! 

Luxembourg’s Christmas markets are not only places of festive cheer, but also spaces where our traditions, languages and communities come together. Whether it is the joy of sharing Gromperekichelcher with friends, listening to familiar carols in Luxembourgish, or strolling through village squares lit with lanterns, each moment carries the spirit of generosity and belonging. 

As we move through Advent, may these markets remind us that Christmas is about more than lights and gifts – it is about kindness, shared memories and hope for the days ahead. 

I wish you and your loved ones a season filled with warmth, laughter and the quiet magic that makes this time of year so special. 

– Isabelle Frisch-Koopmans 

• This article is part of our “Inside Luxembourg” series, celebrating the stories, flavours and traditions that shape our local culture.