Christmas markets are an excellent way to rediscover the spirit of the holiday season, no matter how busy your schedule gets. These markets come with a range of activities, such as ice skating and concerts, along with food and drink vendors. These markets aren't just great places to get gifts for friends, family members, and loved ones; they also offer a super opportunity to capture some fantastic photos. The lights, decorations, music, and smells are beautiful ways to tap into your inner child again. If you're looking for a new way to experience the magic of Christmas this year or want to add another location to your list of places you can revisit throughout December, then consider a Christmas market. 

A Christmas market is a temporary marketplace that sells festive food, decorations, gifts, and souvenirs. They are often placed in public squares, parks, and town squares. Many Christmas markets are put on during the advent season and continue through the holiday season and sometimes even until New Year's, making them an excellent event for all ages! While many Christmas markets are a long-standing tradition, Christmas markets as we recognize them today were started in Germany in the 19th century.

Finding A Christmas Market

If your town doesn't have a Christmas market, you can consider attending one in a nearby city or town. Some of these markets have become so popular over the years that they now travel from city to city, stopping for a few days in a new location each year. And if none of these nearby markets appeal to you, there are also some excellent international Christmas markets that you might want to visit. Remember, this started in Germany, but places like Quebec City in Canada have incredible Christmas markets that are a short drive across the border. 

Things to Do And See At A Christmas Market

If you've never been to a Christmas market before, you're in for a real treat! Christmas markets are an excellent opportunity to experience the festive atmosphere and rediscover the childlike wonder that can get lost in adulthood. Some of the best parts of Christmas markets are the food and drink offerings and the wide variety of gifts, decorations, and souvenirs. But there are also plenty of activities available at Christmas markets that you may not have considered.

• Advent calendars: Some Christmas markets offer advent calendars that you can open each day in December to reveal a small gift or treat, such as a miniature chocolate Santa, Christmas tree decoration, or another seasonal item.
• Christmas tree climbing: If you're brave enough, you can climb to the top of a Christmas tree at a few Christmas markets. Some even offer prizes for the person who makes it to the top!
• Christmas lights walk: If you want to see Christmas lights but don't have a tree of your own, you can visit a Christmas market for an alternative experience. Many markets have a walk where you can stroll between festive Christmas lights and decorations.
• Christmas light shows: Some Christmas markets have lights you can enjoy while sipping hot chocolate or enjoying other festive treats.
• Christmas music concerts: Some Christmas markets feature live Christmas music concerts that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
• Exotic Christmas treats: Some Christmas markets feature food and drink that you might not normally associate with the holiday season, such as Asian cuisine, crêpes, and even vegan treats.

A trip to a Christmas market can get you into the holiday spirit and is a great way to get into the Christmas mood. There are Christmas markets to suit every taste and every person, and they can be found worldwide. You will find something that appeals to you, from bustling urban markets to serene cottage gardens.