The word “Market” comes from the Latin word “mercatus” which means trade market place. It entered English through old French and old English. The concept of marketplace is ancient, dated back around 3000 BCE to ancient Persia. The Christmas Market, organised during the celebration of Christmas. During the Reformation era, Nuremberg and Dresden, two towns in Germany started the custom of marketplace and gradually became a festive tradition and spread around the world.
Earlier known as “December markets” started from Vienna in 1298, held in the streets offering a range of traditional and seasonal items. It was a place of joy for the visitors seeing people singing and dancing near the open stalls and this eventually assimilated with celebration and turned into festive tradition around the world.
During Christmas celebrations in December half of the world celebrates winters and the other half experience warm weather. The weather played an integral role in how these Christmas markets are organised around the world. They have different festive activities based upon the weather. The northern hemisphere countries enjoy ice skating whereas in the southern hemisphere they organise fair on the beaches.
| Countries | Market | Dates | Time | Parking/ Public Transport | Approximate Expenditure per person in USD |
| Germany | Dresden | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 10:00 to 21:00 | Paid parking lots, public transport | $30–$50 (food, mulled, wine, ornaments, small gifts) |
| Nuremberg | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 10:00 to 21:00 | Nearby paid lots & street parking | $30–$50 (sausages, gingerbread, mulled wine, souvenirs) | |
| Frankfurt Christmas Market | Late Nov to 22 Dec | 10:00 to 21:00 | Paid city parking, public transport | $25–$45 (food stalls, gifts, holiday treats) | |
| Austria | Wiener Christkindlmarkt | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 10:00 to 21:00 | Nearby parking garages & trams | $30–$60 (ornaments, mulled wine, sweets, workshops) |
| Czech Republic | Prague Old Town Square Market | Late Nov to 1 Jan | 9:00 to 22:00 | Nearby garages & public transport | $20–$50 (handmade crafts, food, drinks) |
| Wenceslas Square Market | Late Nov to 1 Jan | 10:00 to 22:00 | Nearby garages & metro | $20–$50 (crafts, snacks, Souvniers) | |
| Belgium | Brussels Winter Wonders | Late Nov to 31 Dec | 12:00 to 22:00 | Paid parking and public transport | $30-$60 (Ice-skating, gifts, waffles, chocolate) |
| Bruges Christmas Market | Late Nov to 1 Jan | 11:00 to 19:00 | Street parking and nearby garages | $25-$50 ( artisan crafts, food, drinks) | |
| Hungary | Vörösmarty Square Market | Late Nov to 31 Dec | 10:00 to 20:00 | Public parking and tram | $20-$45 ( Hungarian snacks, gifts and ornaments) |
| Denmark | Copenhagen Tivoli Gardens Market | Mid Nov to 31 Dec | 11:00 to 22:00 | Paid parking and public transit | $40-$70 ( rides, food, decorations, gifts) |
| Finland | Helsinki St. Thomas Market | Late Nov to 23 Dec | 10:00 to 19:00 | Street Parking | $25-$50 ( crafts,Finnish treats, drinks) |
| Spain | Madrid Plaza Mayor Market | Early Dec to 25 Dec | 10:00 to 20:00 | Paid parking and public transpor | $30-$40 ( crafts, food, drinks) |
| Toronto | Toronto Christmas Market | Mid Nov to 23 Dec | 12:00 to 21:00 | Paid parking and public transport | $35-$60 ( rides, crafts, food, drinks) |
| Chicago | Christkindlmarket, Chicago | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 11:00 to 21:00 | Paid lots and street parking | $30-$55 ( crafts, food, drinks) |
| New York | Union Square Holiday Market, NYC | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 11:00 to 20:00 | Street parking and garages | $40-$70 ( artisan, gifts, food, drinks) |
| Pennsylvania | Christkindlmarkt, Bethlehem, PA | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 11:00 to 20:00 | Free and paid parking available | $30-$60 ( food, ornaments, drinks) |
| Brazil | Curitiba Christmas Market | Late Nov to 24 Dec | 10:00 to 22:00 | Public parking and paid lots | $25-$50 ( crafts, festive food, drinks) |
| São Paulo Christmas Market | Late Nov to 31 Dec | 11:00 to 21:00 | Paid parking and garages | $30-$55 ( gifts, food, drinks) | |
| Argentina | Buenos Aires Christmas Market | Early Dec to 31 Dec | 10:00 to 22:00 | Street parking and paid lots | $20-$40 ( handicrafts, food, decorations) |
| Chile | Dalcahue Christmas Market | Mid Dec to 25 Dec | 9:00 to 20:00 | Local parking and small lots | $15-$35 ( crafts, food, drinks) |
| Japan | Tokyo Christmas Market (Meiji Jingu Gaien) | Late Nov to 25 Dec | 11:00 to 21:00 | Paid parking and public transport | $30-$60 ( gifts, decorations, drinks) |
| Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Market | Late Nov to 25 Dec | 10:00 to 21:00 | Paid parking | $30-$40 ( food, ornaments, crafts, drinks) | |
| Thailand | CentralWorld Christmas Market | Late Nov to 31 Dec | 12:00 to 22:00 | Parking and BTS station | $25-$50 ( crafts, food, decorations) |
| Singapore | Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay | Late Nov to 1 Jan | 17:00 to 23:00 | Paid parking nearby | $30-$60 ( crafts, food, rides) |
| South Africa | Cullinan Christmas Market | Early Dec to 25 Dec | 10:00 to 19:00 | Street parking and public lots | $15-$40 ( crafts, food, drinks) |
| CapeGate Festive Market | Early Dec to 24 Dec | 10:00 to 20:00 | Shopping Center Parking | $20-$40 ( crafts, food, ornaments) | |
| Kenya | Sarit Centre Christmas Craft Fair, Nairobi | Mid Nov to 24 Dec | 10:00 to 21:00 | Shopping Center Parking | $20-$35 ( crafts, food, festive gifts) |
Main Christmas Markets in Europe
Europe is central for Christmas celebrations. From the December market around 1298 to Christmas market 1434 the tradition underwent many changes. Traditional handcrafts, food to new attractions, workshops and musical shows. Towns turned into cities, nearby villages turned into small towns. The process of urbanisation brought many changes in the way these markets are organized. Europe is the place where we have one of the best countries to go for Christmas.
Christmas Market in Germany
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt
The Dresden’s Striezelmarkt in Dresden, Germany is considered as the oldest Christmas market in the world starting in 1434. Nowadays this market offers demos for carving of the toys, candles. This place offers performances related to Christmas and cold weather. Visitors have the choice to purchase different crafts made out of wood, this market offers pottery too. There was a tradition which still exists called the Stollenfest procession. This market is near Frauenkieche. Its huge pyramids of Christmas makes it world famous.
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
This market is more than 400 years old, started as a small event of trading during the winter season and became the main attraction. Visitors here enjoy special decorations, elegant candles, and items made up of wood. The oldest custom of the Nuremberg market is Christkind, making it one of the most Christmassy places in the world. It is protecting the holiday culture of Franconians. The market is closer to the city’s medieval centre.
Frankfurt Christmas Market
It started around 1393, listed among the world’s oldest. Started as a winter supply centre for the inhabitants, slowly made progress and turned into a spot for Christmas celebration. New introductions involve the musical shows, concerts, but the traditional plays based upon religious themes also exist. The location is near Römerberg and Paulsplatz. The market is in between wooden structures which makes it very unique.
Christmas Market in Austria
Wiener Christkindlmarkt
Wiener Christkindlmarkt in Vienna is considered among the earliest markets in Europe. Gradually it became a central point of Christmas Celebration. Here , the visitors can go from stall to stall which offers traditionally made items, winter wear, seasonal drinks. The stalls are also traditionally wooden, which makes it appealing and makes it a must-visit Christmas market in the world. The market is closer to city hall and Rathauspark. This market holds links to Austrian traditions.
Christmas Market in Czech Republic
Prague Old Town Square Christmas Market
This market is in Prague Old Town Square in between tall Christmas trees and Gothic Cathedrals. This market emerges from old winter market traditions as other markets in Europe evolved. Today it offers shows based upon festive themes, wine, artisan made items. The traditional customs of Prague like Choirs are very evocative, making it Europe’s most beautiful Christmas market . The nearby attractions are Týn Church
Wenceslas Square Christmas Market (Prague)
Wenceslas Square’s Christmas Market evolved from small seasonal counters to a place of assembly. The range of offerings and activities makes it the most diverse Christmas markets in the world. People like seasonal beverages, artisan items, and refreshment. This market offers traditional foods. The streets in the market have stalls, shops and the National Museum.
Christmas Market in Belgium
Brussels Winter Wonders
Brussels’ Winter Wonders market was initiated as a weekend fair and spread into the whole city.Visitors can roam in streets having many stalls full of handmade crafts, imported items. People can enjoy ice skating, choir shows, and it makes it one of the most fascinating Christmas markets in the world.
Bruges Christmas Market
This market began in motion at Bruges’s medieval square as small stalls, transformed into a place for mass gathering. Guests enjoy chocolates, snacks wandering through the stalls exhibiting artisan items, clothes, seasonal items. The traditional way of marketing still exists with some latest techniques. The combination makes it more appealing for the travellers. The speciality of this market is the books. The traditional book shelves make it more elegant.
Christmas Market in Hungary
Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market (Budapest)
The Vörösmarty Square market, Budapest originated as a small street fair and grew into a full fledged market celebrating Christmas the Hungarian way. The street offers food stands, concerts on traditional themes,and seasonal snacks. The lightning at the square at night makes it unique and a must visit place in Budapest.
Christmas Market in Denmark
Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market
In December, Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen turns to Christmas celebrations. Travelers can enjoy different things like traditional dishes, modern lighting, and knitwear. Bordered by Tivoli’s renowned gardens and attractions, this is the most famous Christmas market in the world.
Christmas Market in Finland
Helsinki St. Thomas Market
The St. Thomas Market, celebrates years old Finland’s Christmas tradition. Originated from a small sale purchase site to a huge marketplace. Guests can relish food, seasonal beverages, and handmade items. The location is close to Senate Square and the Cathedral.
Christmas Market in Spain
Madrid Plaza Mayor Market
Beginning in the 19th century, a market full of decorations, colourful stalls offering sweets. The marketplace has many activities for children, designated photograph areas, and historic architecture. The urban characteristics make it the most distinct Christmas market in Europe.
Main Christmas Markets in North America
The influence of European Christmas Markets spread worldwide. The influence includes the way of organising the market, festive activities and other forms of celebration. Major cities which celebrate Christmas in distinct ways are Toronto, Chicago. The European Style amalgamated with the regional influence and chilly winters makes it different. The traditional values of native communities and modern influence provide a unique way of celebration.
Christmas Market in Canada
Toronto Christmas Market
A city still exhibiting traditional architecture, street view, and celebrating Christmas in a unique manner. Travelers can purchase gifts, decor, and hot drinks. The celebration mixes the customs like carolers with modern celebration style.
Christmas Market in USA
Christkindlmarket, Chicago
Chicago’s Christkindlmarket brings genuine German style every winter. Guests roam through booths full of hand-made items, ornaments and artisans articles. The combination of concerts, shows and wine makes it more lively. Some conventional components like the ceremony of Christkind in downtown mixed with 3D lights makes it a must-visit holiday destination.
Union Square Holiday Market, NYC
Someone who enjoys the Urban way of celebration must pay a visit to Union Square Market in New York City. There exists more than 100 counters offering a wide variety of ornaments, hand-made items and artifacts. This market is situated at a breathtaking location of Manhattan with easy access to public transport.
Christkindlmarkt, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
This market in North America celebrates Christmas “the European way”. As a European market it has wooden counters selling ornaments, articrafts, gifts and other daily use items. Travelers have fun watching performances, events full of traditional stories. The stalls are made in conventional ways but are decorated with modern style lighting and candles. This makes the environment like a traditional fair going on in the streets.
Main Christmas Markets in South America
South American markets have less influence on European style of celebrating Christmas. The markets here possess local conventional style which apart from stalls, food and music gives a traditional mix of regional fun and entertainment style with colourful and dynamic experience.
Christmas Market In Brazil
Curitiba Christmas Market
The Brazilian Christmas Market is full of colourful celebrations including colourful flowers and 3D lights, considerably different from the cold climate celebrations. The live shows, stalls filled with items having local influence, give the celebration a different style. The whole Brazilian community celebrates the season wearing elaborative clothes. One can notice the involvement of catholic, local and African influence in their way of celebration, making it a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
São Paulo Christmas Market, Brazil
The Christmas Market of São Paulo vivifies the streets with bright lights and decorations added with swarming counters full of local goods, seasonal gifts and articrafts. Visitors find live shows, many activities for children. The market is surrounded by urban infrastructure, making a memorable observance for both travelers and the residents.
Christmas Market In Argentina
Buenos Aires Christmas Market, Argentina
In Buenos Aires Christmas Market transformation of shopping centers into festive celebration centers full of historical sites, museums, theaters, shops, and entertainment took place. The place is encircled by medieval architecture where a blend of local customs and festive fairs can be seen, offering an energetic and kids friendly holiday experience.
Christmas Market In Chile
Dalcahue Christmas Market, Isla Grande de Chiloé, Chile
The Dalcahue Christmas Market is located at the waterfront. The celebration consists of dancing, singing, buying local crafts and participating in other activities. All this happens at a beautiful location encircled with wooden constructions and in front of the coast line. This combined with vibration lights on the stalls and decorated streets makes the celebration memorable.
Main Christmas Markets in Asia
The Asian Christmas market, although inspired by the northern hemisphere tradition but the influence of local customs and beliefs can be noticed. The main centers of attraction are Tokyo, Yokohama and Singapore. The weather during December in these areas remains mild. One can expect a blend of local dishes with modern lightning, making them one of the best locations to celebrate Christmas.
Christmas Market in Japan
Tokyo Christmas Market (Meiji Jingu Gaien)
The Tokyo Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas markets in the world. One can see a huge illuminated Christmas tree in the centre of the market. Artists performing in the live shows, classic traditional Christkind parade with latest additions called designated photo points surrounded by live music. The location is close to Meiji Shrine and Aoyama street, where one can observe a blend of two cultures.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Market
Yokohama’s Market is organised in a storehouse made of red bricks, there is no concept of one street. Guests find the warehouse fully decorated, having stalls selling local foods. Apart from this they also organise live shows as the other market offers. The warehouse is at a beautiful location, on the bank of a river.
Christmas Market in Thailand
CentralWorld Christmas Market
A land known for fun and activity, also popular for its Christmas Market. Bangkok’s CentralWorld Christmas Market is actually a shopping complex. Inside one can explore lights, decorative stalls and ceiling, full of activities like photo spots, workshops. It offers a mix of Thai celebration with European. Because of the visitors from all over the world, this market is considered as one of the most diverse Christmas markets in the world.
Christmas Market in Singapore
Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay
Singapore’s Christmas Wonderland is situated near Mariana gardens drive in the southern part of Singapore. Travelers can explore illuminated displays, enjoy shows. Supertree Grove, a vertical garden, is one of the Visitors attraction sites. Seasonal counters offer gifts, articrafts, toys and other goods. Customary elements like carolers can be seen. The combination of tradition and exhibition makes it a globally unique holiday celebration.
Main Christmas Markets in Africa
African people love to celebrate, they have festivals year around. The Christmas celebration is influenced by the local influence. Christmas markets, such as those in Nairobi and Cape Town, envisage the superior skilfulness of Africans. The celebration revolves around artisan counters, activities, workshops, shows and cultural fairs.
Christmas Market in South Africa
Cullinan Christmas Market, South Africa
In Cullinan, the historic town turns into a festive retreat each festive season. Travellers and locals wander through stalls selling home-made items, toys, decoration items and clothes. They give importance to local traditions equally, the market showcases the celebration full of cultural activities. Is Christmas a good time to go to Africa? Yes, mild December weather makes outdoor celebrations perfect, and South Africa’s holiday spirit shines in markets like this.
CapeGate Festive Market, South Africa
CapeGate Festive Market was actually a shopping centre once. Here visitors can explore stalls offering toys, clothes, seasonal food, beverages, ornaments and artifacts. The domestic customs are combined with modern ways of celebration, making it a memorable experience for travelers.
Christmas Market in kenya
Sarit Centre Christmas Craft Fair, Nairobi, Kenya
Sarit Centre is in Kenya’s capital and organizes a seasonal Christmas Fair in the shopping centre. Guests can browse customised decorations, toys and workshops. The modern displays mix with the traditional celebration style and provide a colorful and vibrant Christmas atmosphere.
