FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Singing Christmas Tree
Everything you need to know about the event, the Christmas market and the choir performances at a glance. Your question is missing? Write to us at info@singingchristmastree.ch.
When and where does the Singing Christmas Tree 2026 take place?
From 19 November to 23 December 2026 on Werdmühleplatz at the lower end of Bahnhofstrasse, 8001 Zurich, a few minutes' walk from the main station. The Christmas market is open Monday to Thursday from 4 to 9 pm, Friday from 4 to 10 pm, Saturday from 1 to 10 pm and Sunday from 1 to 9 pm. The choirs sing from 5.30 pm, at weekends from 2.30 pm.
Is there an admission fee?
No. The choir performances, the open singing and the Christmas market are free for everyone. A ride on the children's carousel costs CHF 3, and all proceeds go to children's projects run by the Kiwanis Clubs.
How do I get to Werdmühleplatz?
Public transport is easiest: from Zurich main station it is about a five-minute walk along Bahnhofstrasse, and the Bahnhofstrasse/HB tram stop is right next door. If you come by car, park at the Urania car park just around the corner or at the Jelmoli and Globus car parks.
Werdmühleplatz on Google MapsUrania car parkJelmoli car parkGlobus car park
How can I pay at the Christmas market?
With all common cards (Mastercard, Visa, American Express, etc.), with Apple Pay and Google Pay as well as Twint and Lunch-Check. For hygiene and logistical security reasons we do not accept cash.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes, there are toilets for women and men on the square. A public, wheelchair-accessible toilet is a few metres away in the Urania car park.
What is there to eat and drink at the Christmas market?
Mulled wine, punch and drinks in the tower house, crêpes and galettes, churros and hot chocolate, grilled specialities, tarte flambée, garlic bread and raclette. Much of it comes from Zurich and the region, and vegetarian and vegan dishes are a fixed part of the menu. Our mulled wine has been made for many years by the EPI Park restaurant of the Swiss Epilepsy Centre in Zurich; in 2015 the «Tages-Anzeiger» named it the best in the city.
Do I need to book the fondue chalet?
Yes, we strongly recommend it, as seats go fast. Book online via the «Reservation Fondue Chalet» button. The cosy wooden chalet serves traditional cheese fondue with kirsch and a selection of teas; a vegan alternative is available on request.
Is the Singing Christmas Tree suitable for groups and company dinners?
Very much so. Groups and companies are welcome at the Christmas market and in the fondue chalet, with a choir performance included in the evening. On request we also rent the fondue chalet to private parties at special rates. Contact Sabrina Buchenhorner on +41 44 422 00 06 or info@singingchristmastree.ch.
Can I sing along too?
Yes, at the open singing. On 7 December 2026 at 2.30 and 3.30 pm we sing Disney songs, and on 21 and 22 December at 5.30 and 6.30 pm Tanya Birri sings with you. Instrumentalists and professional gospel singers accompany. Just come along, no registration is needed. Outside the open singing only choirs perform on the tree, so solo performances are not possible.
Can I watch the performances online?
Yes. During the season we broadcast the choir performances as a live stream on this website. Pictures, films and recordings from previous years are in the archive.
Does the event take place in any weather?
Yes. The Singing Christmas Tree is an open-air event and takes place whatever the weather. Short-notice changes due to weather or official requirements are announced here on the website and on Instagram.
Who can perform at the Singing Christmas Tree?
Children's, youth, school and adult choirs are all warmly welcome: children's choirs from 35 children, adult choirs from 25 singers, preferably gospel. We look for good vocal volume and an atmospheric repertoire, though it need not consist of Christmas songs only. Purely instrumental performances and solo acts are not possible. We do not pay fees or expenses.
When do I register my choir?
We accept registrations from January each year. More choirs and schools from Switzerland and abroad apply every year, so it pays to register early. New choirs please send us a sound sample. Registration and questions: Sabrina Buchenhorner, +41 44 422 00 06 or info@singingchristmastree.ch. All requirements are listed under «Choir registration».
When do the choirs perform?
Each choir sings two to three sets of 25 to 30 minutes. Monday to Thursday at 5.30 and 6.30 pm, on Friday also at 7.30 pm. On Saturday and Sunday two choirs sing: at 2.30 and 3.30 pm and at 5.30 and 6.30 pm. On Saturday the Christmas Party follows from 8 to 9 pm. Which choir sings when is listed in the 2026 programme.
How are the children looked after?
Our choir supervisors accompany the singers from the meeting point to the end of the evening. Everyone receives matching hats, gloves, scarves and ponchos. Before and after the performances the children stay in the warm, and between sets there is a small snack with drinks. A changing room with a piano for warming up is provided. Choir leaders receive the detailed daily schedule after registration.