Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • August 4th, 2026
|Käthe Wohlfahrt, known as Europe’s oldest year-round Christmas shop, is celebrating a significant milestone: ten years of enchanting visitors in York. Located on Stonegate, this charming store opened its doors on 1 August 2016, coinciding with Yorkshire Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the rich culture and heritage of the region. The choice of opening on such a meaningful date reflects the family’s commitment to becoming part of the local community.
History of Käthe Wohlfahrt
The story of Käthe Wohlfahrt began in 1956 when Wilhelm and Käthe, along with their two young children, fled from Saxony to West Germany. They brought with them a treasured Christmas music box from their homeland, which would eventually spark the creation of their business. The family’s journey was not easy, but their love for traditional Christmas and craftsmanship became the foundation of what Käthe Wohlfahrt represents today.
Harald Wohlfahrt, the current Managing Director and son of the founders, recalls how a simple act of hospitality led to the birth of the family business:
“My mother and father hosted a military family from the US and gifted them a handcrafted traditional German Christmas music box. This simple gesture accidentally launched the start of the business, which my father affectionately named after my mother.”
This love for Christmas and the values of care and hospitality remain at the heart of the business.
Celebrating Ten Years in York
Since its opening, Käthe Wohlfahrt has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. The store spans 2,800 square feet within a medieval timber-framed building dating back to 1434. It was originally occupied by Mulberry Hall and has welcomed hundreds of visitors since its launch. The choice of York was deliberate, as Harald noted,
“York is rooted in shared festive connections with Germany, including the city’s famous German-style Christmas Market.”
This connection has made the shop a special place where festive traditions from Germany are celebrated and shared.
Despite initial doubts about the shop’s longevity, it has thrived as a tourist destination. Takuma, the grandson of Wilhelm and Käthe and Head of Marketing and Communications, explained,
“We intentionally operate our Käthe Wohlfahrt shops using a tourist-destination model and create unique products designed to last.”
This approach has ensured that the shop remains a popular attraction, with queues often forming outside as visitors come to browse or learn more about German Christmas traditions.
Product Diversity and Community Impact
Käthe Wohlfahrt is well-known for its wide range of Christmas products, including tree decorations, festive pyramids, nativity scenes, and outdoor lights. However, the store also offers items that cater to various occasions throughout the year, such as Halloween, weddings, and Easter.
Aska Wohlfahrt, the eldest daughter of Harald and Head of Purchasing, noted,
“These items appeal to a broader range of people, which adds an extra layer of sustainability to the business all year round.”
This diverse product range has helped the shop maintain its appeal beyond just the Christmas season.
Future Plans and Expansion
While there are currently no plans to open a second UK store, the Wohlfahrt family is exploring new opportunities across the country.
Aska highlighted the accessibility of York:
“The beauty of York is that it is easily accessible from other major cities such as London, Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh.”
Many visitors to York cite Käthe Wohlfahrt as one of the main reasons for their trip, showcasing the shop's importance in the local tourism landscape.
In addition to the York store, Käthe Wohlfahrt operates traditional Christmas market booths and seasonal pop-up shops at various international events, including the Chicago Christkindlmarket. The family is considering how to bring these festive experiences to the UK in the next five years, aiming to extend brand awareness and encourage even more visitors to their York location.
A Legacy of Warmth and Tradition
As the celebration of ten years in York continues, the Wohlfahrt family reflects on their journey and the legacy of their grandparents.
Takuma expressed pride in what has been achieved:
“Although my grandparents are no longer with us, I believe they would be incredibly proud of what we have achieved.”
The family hopes to continue growing the Käthe Wohlfahrt brand and bring more people to York to experience the warmth, quality, and heritage that the shop represents.
For those looking to experience the magic of Käthe Wohlfahrt, the shop is located at 17–19 Stonegate, York YO1 8ZW.
