Christmas market on Red Square. When do Christmas markets in Europe start?

Hello friends. Today we will talk about how Christmas markets in Berlin work in 2019. There are about 60 of them. Large and small, in the old town and in the center of modern Berlin. In squares and on rooftops. Each with its own twist (a huge Ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, old kiosks, master classes for artisans, folk crafts). They are literally at every step.

There is even a Christmas market for dogs in Grunewald. Throughout the city there is the smell of cinnamon, cabbage and fried sausages.

The first Christmas market - Weihnachtsmarkt - was recorded in the ancient chronicles of the country at the beginning of the 14th century. You understand that since then the number of fairs in all cities has only increased. Germany's largest and most popular Christmas markets take place

• in Berlin
• Munich
• Frankfurt
• Hamburg
• Nuremberg
• Cologne
• Erfurt
• Augsburg

But we will talk about Berlin. First of all, it's closer. Secondly, Berlin has the most cheap flights . You can afford to fly there for a few days to feel the smell of Christmas.

The name of the Christmas market in German is Weihnachtsmarkt (Weinachtsmarkt - sounds quite scary), but the fairs themselves look fabulous. Vainakhts - Christmas night, markt - market, bazaar, fair.

You should definitely visit Berlin during this festive and delicious time!

Where are the biggest fairs in Berlin and how do they work?

• Friedrichstraße – 25.11.2019 – 31.12.2019
• Alexanderplatz – 11/25/2019 – 12/26/2019
• Boulevard Unter den Linden Opernpalais – 25.11.2019 – 26.12.2019
• Gendarmenmarkt – 21.11.2019 – 31.12.2019
• Kaiser Wilhelm Church – 25.11.2019 – 31.12.2019
• Old Town district Spandau – 25.11.2019 – 23.12.2019
• Potsdamer Platz - 11/25/2019 - 12/31/2019

What's at the fairs

First of all, this is preparation for Christmas. Each person can feel like a sorcerer, bringing gifts. But first the gifts must be found, selected and purchased. This is what holiday markets are for.

In addition to choosing gifts, they can be used for entertainment, food and fun. At the fairs there are performances by artists, musicians, and costume events related to history. There are skating rinks, carousels, and dance floors.

But there are days when the fairs come to a standstill. These are important holidays for Germans. The last Sunday in November is All Souls Day. Many fairs that are already open on this day have a day off.

Things to remember

Traditionally, fairs open a month before Christmas. And they finish work on December 24th. Some fairs start earlier and end later. Especially in last years due to the crisis. But the main opening hours are November 23-December 24.

On December 24, by 14:00, all tents are folded and the fair ends. Christmas Eve begins. Germans spend the evening, Christmas night and the next day at home.

Christmas, unlike New Year, is a family and quiet holiday. Therefore, it is worth thinking in advance about how and where you will celebrate Christmas. Buy food and drinks in advance - shops will be closed. Theatres, cafes, restaurants too.

Some holiday markets have extended their opening hours even into January. But most still stop working on December 24th. Well, before they close, hurry up to visit them and treat yourself to national cuisine.

The smell of mulled wine, delicacies, Christmas decorations. Already in the 13th century, fairs began to be held in the main squares of cities in Germany, the Czech Republic, France and Austria, which turned these areas into a land of witchcraft, and markets into charming Christmas villages. It is impossible to find similar ones among them, so we have prepared a list of Christmas markets in Europe that are worth visiting.

Christmas shopping doesn't have to be a burden. Just go to most beautiful places Europe and wander around the Christmas markets. The site found out which Christmas markets in Europe 2017 are the best. Of course, there are quite a lot of such places. Take a look and choose the ones that are perfect for you.

Where can you feel the magic of Christmas? Of course, in the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe!

Christmas markets in Europe 2017-2018

Bremen, Germany

170 beautifully decorated stalls surround the historic town hall, the listed Roland Monument World Heritage UNESCO and St. Stephen's Cathedral. You need to get to Böttcherstraße in Schlachte-Zauber on the Weser River, where you will find a historic Christmas market created with a seaside atmosphere. The smell of smoked fish and freshly baked bread floats in the air, and on the shore, ships move to the rhythm of atmospheric carols and organ music, originating from churches.

Prague, Czech Republic

Hospitable Czechs also know how to surprise with holiday fairs. There are two largest ones in the city! One is on Market Square, the other is on Wenceslas. The fairs are only 5 minutes' walk away from each other, so you can visit them on the same day. At the same time, try Czech beer and taste the local cuisine.

The Christmas markets in Prague have been voted by readers of the American daily newspaper USA Today as the most beautiful in the world. They charm with their decor and atmosphere, scented with cinnamon and cloves. The most popular market is at the Old Town Square, but it is also worth visiting Wenceslas Square at the foot of National Museum or near the Municipal House on Republic Square. Be sure to try mulled wine, honey, juicy ham or roasted nuts in sugar while you walk. Don't forget about delicious Czech beer.

Cheap flights to Prague

Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg is home to the most beautiful Christmas markets in northern Germany. They run through the entire city center. The Rathausmarkt, opposite the monumental town hall, features kiosks, pastry shops, toy and craft stores.

Krakow, Poland

When traveling to Europe, do not forget to visit Krakow, where the most beautiful fairs are held. Wroclaw and Warsaw were constantly competing with each other, but the fair in Krakow was special. You will not find such decorations for Christmas and New Year anywhere else as in Krakow.

Cheap flights to Krakow

The Christmas market in Krakow is a continuation of centuries-old traditions. They are held in the main square, where vendors will offer handmade Christmas decorations, souvenirs and regional delicacies. Until December 26th, you can enjoy the sound of carols and the smell of spices floating in the air. On December 4th, children can take part in the record-breaking activity of writing a letter to Santa Claus, and on December 6th you can see the Santa Claus procession itself.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

When: late November to early January

In Amsterdam you can find more than one Christmas market, 26 to be exact, filling both the city center and the suburbs. The most popular are Leidesplein and Museumplein, where villages with wooden houses full of festive food and strong drinks. You need to try olibollen, Dutch donuts. They are said to ward off evil spirits. It's worth seeing the beautifully lit skies over the city's canals during the Amsterdam Light Festival, which runs from December 1st to January 22nd.

Vienna, Austria

Every year before Christmas Vienna turns into magical land lights, wooden houses and carousels, like in a fairy tale. The air smells of wine, spices and regional delicacies. The most popular Christmas markets are at Rathausplatz, Freyung Square, Karlsplatz Square, Schloss Belvedere Palace Gardens and Schlobnbrunn Palace Gardens, where you can buy handmade Christmas decorations and try roasted chestnuts.

The Christmas market in Vienna is one of the most interesting in Europe. You can choose from 20 locations depending on the amount of time you have. It is definitely worth visiting one of the oldest fairs under the town hall. Fairs have been held in Vienna since 1298. When you're tired of shopping, you can go for a spin at the skating rink in the city center.

Cheap flights to Vienna

Strasbourg, France

The Strasbourg fair is one of the oldest trade fairs in Europe. Its first event took place in 1570. The fair features more than 300 exhibits. You can spend most of your day there, choosing the most beautiful decorations and gifts. You will also need to see the Christmas tree decorating Place Kléber.

Strasbourg hosts one of the largest Christmas markets in the world. The fair is organized in several squares in the oldest part of the city, in more than 300 beautifully decorated wooden huts you can buy mainly Alsatian delicacies and Christmas decorations. During this time, many cultural events take place, such as theater performances or concerts.

Cheap flights to Strasbourg

Florence, Italy

Piazza Santa Croce turns into a Christmas kingdom. The Christmas market is famous for its fairytale houses set among the beautiful sights. If you want to see the Christmas tree, go to Piazza del Duomo.

Cheap flights to Florence

Brussels, Belgium

The Brussels fair is called Winter Wonders, so it is not surprising that it can satisfy any discerning taste. More than 200 trading platforms present their products. If you have already bought gifts and decorations, you can try Belgian beer, waffles or mulled wine at a nearby restaurant or cafe.

Cheap flights to Brussels

Copenhagen, Denmark

The fair in Tivoli Gardens in the capital of Denmark is one of a kind. Here you will find: entertainment and attractions that serve for an additional magical climate. There are also light shows. The selection of products is impressive.

Cheap flights to Copenhagen

Berlin, Germany

The Berlin fair is one of the most visited in Europe. Unfortunately, due to last year's terrorist attack, not many tourists are expected. But the city is doing everything possible to restore its former glory and protect itself from danger. In principle, there are 12 fairs in Berlin, so the choice is huge! By the way, there is also an outdoor skating rink nearby.

Cheap flights to Berlin

Stockholm, Sweden

If you want to experience a traditional atmosphere just like the old days, head to an outdoor exhibition in Stockholm. It is located on the island of Djurgarden in the city center. The fair is only available on weekends, where you can buy traditional Swedish goods and try local dishes.

Cheap flights to Stockholm

By visiting Christmas markets in Europe in 2017-2018, you will plunge into the natural atmosphere of old Europe. In addition, you can buy New Year's gifts for yourself and your loved ones and recharge yourself in the festive mood.

IN new year holidays Tverskoy Boulevard will become one of the main platforms of the capital. Here you can play snowballs, curling and hockey. Great option for both family and youth recreation. Take some magical photos and plunge into a fairy tale, passing through a hundred-meter glowing tunnel!

Figures of ballerinas on the Boulevard Ring 0+

Shining lights, huge art objects and light installations, Christmas markets with treats, street theater performances and dozens of routes for inspiring winter walks - this will be the case for the 2017–2018 season.

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Fairytale forest on Manezhnaya Square 0+

Manezhnaya Square is one of the most famous places in Moscow, notable for its history and architecture. Manezhka has long been a well-known venue for concerts, cultural events and political rallies.

One of them will work in GUM for a very long time. Therefore, if you don’t have enough holiday spirit, you can get it here until the end of winter. And for the most active people, the capital offers a ride on the boat, which is located in the very heart of the capital on Red Square.

Designer Christmas trees on Kuznetsky Most

In the center of the capital, the decoration of New Year trees has begun based on sketches by famous designers and fashion designers. Muscovites will see a Christmas tree in the style of the Swan Princess, as well as a model dedicated to Maya Plisetskaya.

Food court in Zaryadye Park 18+

Food at Zaryadye is a huge food court, divided into nine thematic zones. Each has its own name and is tied to a specific product or method of its preparation. The gastronomic project, a stone's throw from the Kremlin, is run by famous restaurateur Alexander Rappoport. What's on the menu, what are the prices and where should you take a photo? Let's talk.

When Moscow is in a festive mood, the city is filled with interesting events. The ancient tradition of organizing fairs, buffoon performances, games and sleigh rides is being revived on a Russian scale. More than 30 trading platforms are opening in a huge metropolis to create the atmosphere of a fairy tale. The usual attributes of the New Year - a luxurious Christmas tree, Father Frost and the Snow Maiden are present at all venues, but the variety of ideas for entertainment extends from magnificent concert festivals to ice figure competitions and sports entertainment. What fairs will be held at Christmas 2018 in Moscow, find out everything in our article.

The annual New Year's Journey to Christmas festival will take place on Red Square with dozens of special kiosks and tents, playgrounds and stages. The festival includes about 40 special areas in the city center, which recreate the most whimsical Christmas places of the continents. New Year's treats from different corners Russia and Europe, open-air theatrical performances, master classes, fairs and many other entertainments. There will be more than 100 stalls selling various goods on the fair grounds. Opening hours are from 10:00 to 21:00.

In December, the “Magic Winter” exhibition will be held at the VDNKh International Exhibition Center. Guests can enjoy traditional Russian fair entertainment and sleigh rides. The huge skating rink will be free.

On Manezhnaya Square, guests will be greeted by a fair and a uniquely tall spruce tree. It’s worth coming here for Christmas tree decorations, unique cuckoo clocks, carnival masks and other handmade souvenirs. Here they introduce you to the traditions and the Christmas table, offer festive products, excellent chocolate and souvenirs.
In addition to Christmas dishes, decorations, gifts and souvenirs, the main fair on Tverskaya Square is the holding of traditional Russian games and master classes on crafts and making sweets. But it just irritates the appetite! True Russian treats include caviar, cider and sbiten on Kuznetsky Most. Those looking for gift ideas should visit the craft fair on Chistoprudny Boulevard.

Russian traditions were not forgotten at Christmas markets. For traditional Russian souvenirs, head to Arbat, Pushkinskaya Square and Nikolskaya Street, where crafts from the fairytale cities of Veliky Ustyug, Kostroma, Tula and Gzhel are presented.

The main New Year and Christmas fairs 2018 in Moscow: exhibitions and New Year events

A model of the capital made of ice will appear in Victory Park, dedicated to the FIFA World Cup, which is organized by Russia in 2018. There will be a wide variety of ice sculptures, including symbols of the 32 countries that will take part in the World Cup and the 11 Russian cities taking part in the competition. Festival participants will make ice models of the Moscow Kremlin, the building of Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov, Bolshoi Theater, Ostankino TV tower, Moscow International House of Music, Moscow City Hall.

Monuments have not been forgotten, so transparent copies of Yuri Dolgoruky, the Arc de Triomphe, A.S. will appear nearby. Pushkin, cosmonauts at VDNKh, the Tsar Bell, the Worker and Collective Farm Woman monument up to 5 meters high. They plan to highlight the statues and provide information. The first Ring Road will be copied in mini form with cars for kids and the same inspectors in uniform.

For fireworks lovers, the fun begins after the chimes strike. Fireworks will fly into the sky above Moskvoretskaya embankment. At 1 am on January 1 of the New Year, fire shows will be held in parks at 30 sites.

To actively celebrate the holiday, ride a snowy hill, organize real ski marathons, take part in palace intrigues, you need to go to Tsaritsyno. The reserve invites children 4-12 years old to participate in the “Fairytale Tsaritsyno” quest in Catherine Hall Grand Palace. The highlight of the adventure will be historical costumes, treasures and duels.
During the holidays in the capital you can have fun for every taste, both for children and adults. If mass celebrations are not very attractive, there are winter areas for skiing on anything - sleds, skates, skis, boards - have a pleasant holiday!

Christmas markets 2018 in Moscow: Video