Christmas markets are where the holiday magic happens. They’ve been around since a really long time ago, starting way back in 1298 in Vienna, and now you can find them everywhere! From Germany to Singapore to New York, each place has its special Christmas market waiting for you.
Vienna’s Special Market
Vienna in Austria has a super cool market called Wiener Christkindlmarkt. There, you can ride reindeer, go on a big Ferris wheel, and see a nativity scene. It’s like walking into a magical storybook! The Rathausplatz market in Vienna is one of the oldest and most special. It has a rink for kids to ice skate, a huge Tree of Hearts with shiny hearts, and yummy sausages and gingerbread cookies. This fun lasts from November 10 to December 26.
Basel’s Awesome Market
In Switzerland, Basel’s Christmas Market is a big deal. It’s all spread out in two places – Barfusserplatz and Munsterplatz – and has over 150 stalls selling everything Christmassy! You can find spices, decorations, and even candles there. Kids will love the Christmas forest where they can decorate gingerbread and make stars. Plus, you can see an amazing view from St. Martin’s tower and drink yummy mulled wine at a tall Christmas pyramid. It happens from November 23 to December 23.
Strasbourg’s Old-Time Market
In France, Strasbourg has one of the oldest Christmas markets from way back in 1570! It’s spread across 10 places, making the whole city sparkle with lights and decorations. You can shop for cool things at wooden chalet stalls and sip on local wine. The Place Klebe has a big, beautiful Christmas Tree. You can enjoy this from November 24 to December 24.
Brussels’ Fun Festival
Brussels becomes a big winter playground with Winter Wonders. It’s not just a market, it’s more like a fun festival! There are shows with lights, ice skating, exciting rides, and about 200 little shops selling warm drinks, Belgian goodies, and yummy waffles. The Grand Place has a giant Christmas tree that you can’t miss! This fun goes on from November 24 to December 31.
Prague’s Winter Wonderland
In Prague, Czech Republic, Christmas turns the city into a magical place. Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are full of fun markets. One has shows and workshops, and the other has handmade gifts and yummy treats like sausages and warm spiced drinks. You can explore these markets from December 2 to January 6, 2024.
Barcelona’s Merry Fair
Barcelona’s Fira de Santa Llucia is a super old fair from 1786 that goes on for three weeks! It’s near the Barcelona Cathedral and has lots of fun stuff. There are nativity scenes, crafts, pretty plants, and even music. Don’t miss the fun Christmas parade or the big log full of surprises and candy! This jolly fair is happening from November 24 to December 23.