Best Family Activities at Zermatt Christmas Markets 2026
Zermatt transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the festive 2026 holiday season for all visitors. Families will find endless joy while exploring the snowy streets located directly under the famous Matterhorn peak. There are many exciting family activities at Zermatt Christmas markets that everyone can enjoy together this winter. These festive events create lasting holiday memories for both young children and their parents in Switzerland.
Interactive Workshops and Crafts for Kids in Zermatt
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Children love getting creative at the various festive market stalls located throughout the village of Zermatt. Local artisans often host small workshops where kids can learn to make traditional Swiss holiday ornaments easily.You can find these interactive craft stations near the main church square during the month of December. Participants can decorate colorful gingerbread cookies or craft small wooden toys to take home as souvenirs.
Most craft sessions cost between 10 and 20 Swiss Francs for each participating child in the market. These activities usually run from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM on most weekends during the season.
It is a great way to stay warm while being productive during your family winter vacation trip. Check the Zermatt Christmas market opening dates for specific workshop schedules and times.
Ice Skating and Outdoor Winter Fun for Families
The outdoor ice rink in the center of Zermatt is a popular favorite for active visiting families. Kids can glide across the cold ice while surrounded by many beautiful and twinkling holiday lights tonight.
Skate rentals are available on-site for both children and adults for a very small and reasonable fee. This rink offers a magical atmosphere with the snowy Matterhorn visible in the distance for all skaters.
After skating, families can explore the nearby wooden stalls for warm drinks and delicious local Swiss snacks. The rink is typically open daily from 10:00 AM until late in the evening for your convenience.
Entry fees for children are quite affordable and usually cost around 5 Swiss Francs per person today. Visit the Zermatt Tourism website for the latest rink operating hours and safety rules.
Family Activities at Zermatt Christmas Markets: Food
Exploring the food stalls is one of the best family activities at Zermatt Christmas markets this year. Kids will enjoy trying traditional Swiss treats like roasted chestnuts and creamy hot chocolate with whipped cream.
You should also look for "Grittibänz" which are cute bread men made specifically for the holiday season. These snacks are perfect for keeping little energy levels high during your long walk through the village.
Sweet crepes and warm waffles are also very popular choices for younger visitors at the busy market stalls. Most food items cost between 5 and 12 Swiss Francs per portion for hungry families to enjoy.
- Roasted chestnuts: 7 CHF
- Hot chocolate: 6 CHF
- Gingerbread men: 5 CHF
You can find many of the best foods to try at Zermatt Christmas market near the main Bahnhofstrasse. These treats provide a delicious way to experience the local Swiss holiday culture with your young children.
Meeting Santa and Holiday Characters in the Village
A major highlight for many children is meeting Samichlaus who is the famous Swiss version of Santa Claus. He often visits the Zermatt markets with his companion Schmutzli during the early weeks of December each year.
Kids can recite short poems or sing festive songs to receive small bags of traditional holiday treats. These bags usually contain healthy nuts, sweet mandarins, and delicious Swiss chocolates for the children to enjoy.
Look for these festive characters near the large decorated Christmas tree located in the main village center. This activity is free and provides wonderful photo opportunities for the whole family during your winter trip.
The appearances usually happen in the late afternoon when the bright market lights begin to shine beautifully. It is a truly heartwarming experience for visitors of all ages visiting Zermatt in late 2026.
Exploring the Village by Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the car-free streets of Zermatt is a truly magical family experience. These rides offer a cozy way for families to see the festive decorations without walking in the snow.
You can find carriage stands located near the train station or the main village square every day. The horses wear small bells that jingle softly as you trot through the beautiful and snowy village.
A short tour typically lasts about 20 to 30 minutes for the entire family to enjoy together comfortably. Prices vary depending on the route but generally start around 50 Swiss Francs for a standard carriage.
This is a perfect activity if your children’s legs get tired from walking around the market stalls. You can check the SBB CFF FFS website for travel details to reach Zermatt easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family activities at Zermatt Christmas markets for toddlers?
Toddlers will love the gentle horse-drawn carriage rides and meeting Samichlaus in the village center during December. The markets are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate the festive stalls with very young children safely.
Are there indoor activities for families in Zermatt during Christmas?
Yes, many hotels and local centers offer indoor craft workshops and storytelling sessions for kids during the holidays. You can also visit the Matterhorn Museum for an educational indoor experience that children will find very interesting.
How much should I budget for family activities at the markets?
Budget approximately 30 to 50 Swiss Francs per child for a full afternoon of snacks and activities. This covers small crafts, ice skating rentals, and a few delicious treats from the local market food stalls.
Zermatt offers a truly unforgettable holiday experience for families looking for festive fun in the Swiss Alps. From ice skating to meeting Santa, there are plenty of family activities at Zermatt Christmas markets to enjoy. Plan your visit early to ensure you experience all the magic this mountain village offers in 2026. We hope your family has a wonderful time exploring the Zermatt Christmas markets 2026 this winter season.