The European Christmas Markets and More

by JoeLopy in Holidays, December 9, 2010

A tradition which has been running since the middle ages.

The history of the Christmas markets in Europe goes back to the middle ages. Some example are Dresden (Germany) Christmas market, considered one of the oldest (1434) and Vienna (Austria) ”December market” was a forerunner of the Christmas market and dates back to 1294. In many towns in Germany and Austria, Advent is usually ushered in with the opening of the Christmas market or ”Weihnachtsmarkt”. Generally located in the towns main square and adjacent pedestrian zones, the market sells food, drink and seasonal items from open-air stalls. One of the highlights of the market is the Glühwein which is hot mulled wine with or without brandy or Eierpunsch which is an egg-based warm alcoholic drink. These drinks will help to cope with the cold winter air which is below freezing temperature. Other popuar attractions are: Christostollen (stollen), a sort of egg-bread with candid fruit; Gebrannte Mandeln (candied, toasted almond); traditional Christmas biscuits (generally gingerbread based); toys; books; Christmas tree decorations and ornaments, etc.

These are considered some of the most popular Christmas markets around Europe:

1. Cologne Christmas markets Germany;

Cologne Christmas markets

2. Vienna Christmas markets (Austria);

Vienna Christmas markets – Photo via wikipedia

3. Nuremberg Christmas markets (Germany);

4. Dresden Christmas markets (Germany);

5. Brussels Christmas markets (Belgium);

6. Munich Christmas markets (Germany);

7. Prague Christmas markets (Czech Republic);

8. Tallin Christmas markets (Estonia);

9. Berlin Christmas markets (Germany);

10. Copenhagen Christmas markets (Denmark).

Other well known places in Europe are France with Strasbourg Christmas markets held since 1570, England with several Christmas markets (held in places such as London, Lincoln, Manchester, Birmingham, etc.) , Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Romania and many more.

Christmas markets in Finland (North Carelia) – photo via wikipedia

German immigrants also brought the Christmas markets celebration to the United States.