Xmas Markets Around The World

Added: 01/22/2006

Germany has long since been viewed as the seat of traditional Xmas markets. While this is true, sadly many other locations are neglected even though they are just as worthy of a visitor's attention at their more famous counterparts. Did you know, for example, that Great Britain, France, and even Poland host beautiful market celebrations in honor of Christmas?

Xmas markets have long since been hailed as the most beautiful collection of sights, sounds, and smells that not only greet the eager visitor but also truly permit the Christmas spirit to take hold of the community. It has long been said that those who are in search of wholesale Xmas presents, ornaments, and traditional crafts will need to visit one of the many German Xmas markets. While it is true indeed that Germany is world famous for its markets, it is a lesser known fact that other countries host their own market traditions that rival their German cousins in many ways.

Among Xmas markets, Prague, the capital of Czechoslovakia, ranks high on the list of must-sees. As a matter of fact, the city offers a variety of different markets to allow as many visitors as possible to get into the festive spirit and mood. Patrons will be able to peruse and purchase authentic Czech crafts, finger foods, and hot wine. One of the highlights of these Xmas markets is the large assortment of puppets, lovingly hand crafted by master puppeteers and wood carvers. Additionally, children will enjoy the opportunity to come face to face, or hand to fur if you will, with goats and sheep at the petting zoo. Another highlight of Prague's famous markets is the life-sized manger scene that may be gazed upon by visitors. Beautifully lit up in the evenings, this sight clearly expresses the religious sentiments that many residents of this city share.

Of course, there are other Xmas markets where eager shopper look for outstanding and original wholesale Xmas bargains. For example, the United Kingdom has a crowd favorite in Lincoln's market. Adding to the fascinating wares of local artisans and jewelers, this market also features traditional iron works of local smiths. Stall keepers are dressed in authentic Victorian costumes, and the entire market is set at the foot of a twelfth century cathedral that towers high above the town square. This is a truly the perfect setting to experience an old-fashioned Dickens Christmas!

In Spain, the markets are more plentiful, yet smaller. For example, Valencia offers many Christmas markets upon which a visitor literally stumbles as he or she turns a corner. They are small, informal, and quite often showcase several religious displays in addition to the craft stalls. The food is excellent, and some of the traditional favorites are the liquorices that may be purchased on a stick, as well as freshly roasted chestnuts.

Of course, if you crave a German Christmas market outside of Germany, you don't need to travel further than Geneva in southwestern Switzerland. Maintaining German traditions in the gorgeous setting of the Alps, this market tantalizes the visitor with the snow covered mountain sights, the smell of fresh backed gingerbread, as well as the aroma of hot wine. Obviously, it is now one of the open secrets that Germany no longer has a monopoly on the Christmas market, but instead the competition is fierce and festive throughout Europe. Enjoy your stay!

Rate this article:

Bad

Good

Article comments:

No comments for this article yet. Post your comment now!

Return to top of the page