A traditional market to celebrate the Octave of Pentecost
The roots of the Mäertchen can be traced to the Octave of Pentecost, a religious holiday held to honour the Virgin Mary, who is the patron saint of both the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and its capital. Pilgrims from all over the country and the Greater Region come to Luxembourg City. While the Octave initially lasted for eight days (hence its name), it now takes place over the course of 16 days between Easter and Pentecost, starting on the third Saturday after Easter.
Originally, the Mäertchen gave fasting pilgrims, most of whom came from rural areas and rarely travelled to the city, a chance to get some sustenance while shopping in the city right after mass.
Although the Mäertchen now has more of a carnival atmosphere with its fairground games and rides, it has by no means lost its charm and appeal. Each year, thousands of visitors flock to the city centre to enjoy the food, games and hawker's stands at this quintessentially Luxembourgish fair.
2026 edition
This year, this fun and festive market will include some 50 food stalls around a central covered terrace of over 1,000 m2, as well as games stalls and fairground attractions.
When:
Saturday, 25 April to Aunday, 10 May 2026
Times:
11:00–22:00 (fairground businesses may remain open until 23:00)
Where:
Place Guillaume II
How to get there
- Tram: T1 tram line, "Hamilius" stop
- Bus: stops: "Hamilius", "Roosevelt" and "Monterey" stops
- vel'OH!: "Gëlle Fra" and "Knuedler" stations
- Car parks: Car parks: "Monterey", "Royal-Hamilius", "Knuedler" and "Saint-Esprit"
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