Last year, the Winter Village made its debut at the Biathlon at Schalke around the VELTINS-Arena. For the 23rd edition of the WTC, FC Schalke 04 and the German Ski Association (DSV) analyzed spectator feedback and made targeted improvements to the venue. The result: shorter distances, more freedom of movement, and new experiences right along the course.
One Ticket, Unlimited Access: Direct Access to the Promenade and Party Zone
Spectators have been asking for easier access, and that’s exactly where the most important change comes in. As usual, you’ll enter the arena grounds through Entrances West 1, East 1, and East 2. Once inside, Entrance West 2 connects the promenade on the Arena Ring directly to the party zone on Rudi-Assauer-Platz, exclusively for ticket holders. Those moving between the areas no longer need to check their tickets out at the turnstiles and then check them back in. This allows visitors to enjoy the entire Winter Village at their leisure and without waiting in line.
Right next to the course: New fan area at Tunnel 1
Another frequent request from the visitor survey was to be able to get right next to the cross-country ski trail in the Winter Village again. This will now be possible at Tunnel 1: Here, fans will be standing exactly where the athletes leave the arena and, before the climb to the north, draw one last burst of energy from the crowd. You can’t get much closer to the race than this.
Winter Village Party Zone – Presented by Hitzkopf
The heart of the Winter Village is the Party Zone in front of the famous “Thousand Friends” Wall. As the presenter of the Party Zone and the official mulled wine and punch partner, Hitzkopf provides warm drinks and a cozy cabin atmosphere. Starting at 12 p.m., DJs Lars Bremkens and Sebastian Hup will get the crowd in the mood with the latest chart hits and well-known classics. And after the races on the cross-country trail and at the shooting range, the fun continues at the après-ski party until the day comes to a convivial close.
Winter Promenade on the Arena Ring
If you want to get active yourself, the promenade is the place to be. The Arena-Ring transforms into an atmospherically lit promenade featuring delicious food and a variety of activities to join in and try out—ideal for families, fans, and anyone who enjoys celebrating together.
Get your tickets now
Tickets for the WTC are available at tickets.schalke04.de and tickets.biathlon-aufschalke.de, via the hotlines 0180 | 5378873 and 0209 | 9775 1877, as well as at the Service Center at the FC Schalke 04 office (Ernst-Kuzorra-Weg 1, 45891 Gelsenkirchen). Tip: WTC tickets also make the perfect Christmas gift.
