St Nicholas to Land at German Airport With a Baggage Surprise
Families visiting Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport this December can watch St Nicholas arrive by plane, bringing children’s boots filled with small gifts for collection at the baggage carousel. Parents can leave one boot at the airport in advance for organisers to prepare before the Advent Magic celebration. The event is open to everyone, with no flight ticket required, making it an unusual Christmas outing for local families and visitors alike.
Around 60 stalls will offer gifts, seasonal goods and street food, alongside stage performances, face painting and a bouncy castle. St Nicholas is expected to land at about 15:30 after circling the airport. Families can watch through the arrivals hall windows before the filled boots arrive on the baggage belt. Children will also have a chance to take photographs with him afterwards.
How to Join the Airport’s Christmas Celebration
- When: Sunday, 6 December 2026, 11:00–18:00.
- Where: Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport terminal and outdoor P1 area, near Büren.
- Entry: Free; the boot activity costs €5 in cash, donated to charity.
- Drop-off: Bring one child’s boot to terminal information, 16–30 November, 10:00–17:00.
- Label: Attach the child's name and a telephone number.
- Late registration: Available at the airport’s stand on event day.
- Transport: S60 bus from Paderborn; check Sunday times.
Visitors can combine the airport celebration with other Christmas activities around Paderborn. The city-centre market runs that evening around Domplatz, while Schloss Neuhaus also hosts a festive market in its castle grounds. Both offer an option for families wanting a longer day out. Allow time to travel between locations, particularly if using public transport, and plan the airport visit around St Nicholas’s expected afternoon landing.
The main attraction takes place inside the arrivals hall, so families hoping to see St Nicholas land should head there before 15:30. His arrival time is approximate, and the children's gifts will appear on the baggage carousel afterwards. The market also occupies the P1 area, which may affect parking. Visitors travelling from Paderborn can take the S60 bus, although Sunday services may be limited.
