The winter holidays are fast approaching and along with them are festivities and celebrations to partake in around the world. If you celebrate Christmas, here are some of the best markets, festivals and celebrations around the world.
Christkindlesmarkt (Nuremburg)
This German Christmas market is one of the most famous in the world and historical, dating to the 16th century. It goes on the whole month of December. The festival is deeply rooted in tradition, not allowing any sale of plastic toys and peppered with traditional ceremonies.
Budapest Christmas Fair (Hungary)
The festive marketplace starts Nov. 10 and lasts until Dec. 31. Cottage-style wooden stalls take over the town square, selling Christmas products, crafts and treats. A skating rink and Christmas lights decorate the square in a Christmas glow.
Chicago rivals Germany with its own version of the Nuremburg Christkindlesmarkt. Held in Daley Plaza Nov. 17–Dec. 24, the market draws in 1 million visitors annually. A large Christmas tree, lights, vendors and more litter the area with holiday cheer.
The Frankfurt Christmas market rivals Nuremburg’s in history, tracing all the way back to 1393. The historic town is brightly lit up by thousands of fairy lights and home-baked goods like chestnuts, gingerbread and mulled wine scent the air. The event starts Nov. 17 and goes until Dec. 22.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is one of the biggest Christmas events in Europe. It deviates from the traditional Christmas village with more than 100 rides and attractions. Festivities last Nov. 17–Jan. 1. Attractions include ice-skating, ice shows, an ice bar and plenty of shows and lights.
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