Merry Christmas! It’s that time of the year again where we indulge in great food, mulled wine, cheesy Christmas films and of course – shopping. Covid-19 has made things weird, but many Christmas markets in the world were still able to welcome some visitors. As we continue to trudge on into uncertain times, let’s ‘visit’ some of the most magical Christmas markets in the world, right from the comfort of our homes.
1. Vienna Christmas World, Austria
Photo credit: guide.michelin.comAustria is home to some incredible Christmas markets, but the most popular one has to be Vienna Christmas World. From mid-November until Christmas, the aroma of Christmas bakes, hot punch and toasty nuts wafts through Vienna’s most beautiful squares. 150 sales booths here offer Christmas gifts, decor, handicrafts, yummy treats, confectionery and hot drinks. There are also other attractions like light installations, the tree of hearts, an ice skating rink, as well as the Children’s World which has a carousel and ferris wheel!
2. Edinburgh Christmas Market, Scotland
Photo credit: scotsman.comChristmas is one of the best times to be in Edinburgh. Between November 2021 and January 2022, Edinburgh transforms into a winter paradise, complete with Christmas markets, ice skating, festive experiences and much more. It is the longest Christmas market, and apparently according to survey, also the best Christmas market in Europe. Yummy food and drinks are a given, along with amazing rides, light projections and performances.
3. Dresden Striezelmarkt, Germany
Photo credit: wikipedia.orgDresden Striezelmarkt has a history that dates back to 1434, when it was just a one-day event. Today, its not just its age that attracts visitors; it also boasts of 240 stalls as well as Germany’s largest Christmas pyramid. Before Covid, local bakers would come together to make the world’s largest stollen, which is then paraded through the market on a carriage, and visitor can snag some for a small donation. Unfortunately, Dresden Striezelmarkt has been cancelled for two years in a row. Here’s hoping it’ll be back next year!
4. Budapest Christmas Fair, Hungary
Photo credit: dailynewshungary.comHungary’s capital celebrates with three different Christmas markets each year, the largest one being the Budapest Christmas Market. It is often considered to be one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands every year. Visitors can choose from over 100 stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to mouthwatering goulash, sausages, and other tasty Hungarian specialties.
5. Winterfest, Hong Kong
Photo credit: timeout.comThis modern Asian city sure throws one hell of a Christmas market. Hong Kong is known for its city lights all year round, but during Christmas it becomes a magical place. The Hong Kong WinterFest brings the city to life with tinsel and fairy lights galore. The city is covered in festive decor and the Christmas tree stands proud in Statue Square. During this time, enjoy special offers from shops and malls, and enjoy scrumptious seasonal dishes and festive menus!
6. Christmas Village, Philadelphia
Photo credit: thegreencities.comThe Christmas Village in Philadelphia is probably the closest you can get to an authentic Christmas market in the U.S. The market resumed this year with safety measures in place from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve. Visitors can expect over 60 vendors and booths selling the same wares you’d find in Europe, from yummy treats and drinks to ornaments, jewelry, and arts and crafts from different parts of the world.
