Christmas Markets Around the World
VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Vienna is probably the motherland of Christmas markets; this age-old tradition dates back to 1298. If you’re a fan of mulled wine, for a few extra euros you can hold on to the different mugs at the more than 20 different markets in Austria. If not, return them after use and get some of your money back! Pick up handcrafted gifts and eat traditional Austrian fare at the markets, amongst the spectacular backdrop of palaces and museums.
Stay at HI Austria, Vienna
Dates here
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
Visit Stockholm’s Old Town and see what a traditional Swedish Christmas market is all about. The Old Town Christmas markets started in 1523 and lay claim to being one of the oldest markets in Europe. While you’re there try Swedish sweets, sausages, have a taste (if you dare) of reindeer and elk-meat (just make sure it’s not Rudolph first). Take home some beautiful Swedish handcrafts from the unique red stalls.
From 21 November 2015 – 23 December 2015.
Stay at HI Sweden
More information here
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Voted as the best European Christmas market for 2014, the “Christkindelsmärik” in Strasbourg reflects the very unique geographical and historical nature of the city, offering arts, crafts and food plus typical Alsatian Christmas decorations. Sometimes the markets will have street parades, sound and light shows or live bands. You’ll be full of Christmas spirit!
From 27 November 2015 – 31 December 2015.
Stay at HI Strasbourg - 2 Rives
LONDON, ENGLAND
London has an array of Christmas markets, including the famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and others including on Southbank and at the Tate Modern. Hear carollers, go on rides and taste English treats and traditional food.
Stay at YHA UK
Dates here
SAN FRANCISCO – GREAT DICKENS FAIR
Just a short distance from downtown San Fran is a Victorian Christmas celebration, a throwback to the world of Charles Dickens and the Victorian era. Turn back time and walk amongst costumed characters, yelling street vendors, pubs, theatres and dance floors – all set up on three acres.
Over five weekends from 21 November 2015 – 20 December 2015.0
Stay at HI San Francisco Downtown
More information here
BRYANT PARK WINTER VILLAGE, NEW YORK CITY
Wander through over 120 holiday shops at Bryant Park and bring your skates to take advantage of the huge free outdoor ice-skating rink! If you’re a little chilly after being on the ice, warm up at the many food outlets rink-side or get your heart pumping with a bit of retail exercise! (read: shopping).
Stay at HI New York
More information here
GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS, SAPPORO
This year marks the 14th year of the German Christmas market in Sapporo, Japan, a ‘sister city’ of Munich. Much of the inspiration for this Christmas market comes from its German sister with stalls of European goods and food on offer, as well as Christmas lights and concerts. It’s a little bit of Germany in Japan.
From 27 November 2015 – 24 December 2015.
Stay at Sapporo International Youth Hostel
More information here
THE VILLAGE BIZARRE NIGHT MARKETS
Get lost in the historical Rocks, Sydney exploring the Village Bizarre Markets which sees the area transformed in a vaudevillian world of performers and markets each Friday night until 18 December. There are installations, characters around every corner, musicians, stalls to buy artisan gifts or dinner and so much more. It’s sure to be an exciting evening!
13 November – 18 December
Stay at Sydney Harbour YHA
More information here
SHANGHAI GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
This exciting Christmas markets transports you back to the Medieval era, offering the chance to wander through traditional wooden hut villages, converse with ‘merchants’ and feel like you’re a real knight or dame. Watch artists juggle, play music and even see knights practice their archery skills. Have some food or drink and be taken back in time.
27 November 2015 – 27 December 2015.
Stay at Shanghai Blue Mountain Youth Hostel
WELLINGTON UNDERGROUND CHRISTMAS MARKET
During the weekends in December, the regular Underground Markets will be transformed into a specially-themed Christmas market with more than 85 stalls full of Christmas inspiration and crafty gifts. Along with the festive entertainment on offer it’s sure to put a spring in your step!
5/6, 12/13, 19/20 December 2015.
Stay at yha.co.nz
More information here
