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Covent Garden, London © Anizza | Dreamstime
Planning a holiday getaway? These destinations are known for festive markets and celebrations filled with lights, music, seasonal food and long-held traditions. Explore illuminated streets, boutique stalls and lively entertainment as you soak up the season. -
© Mike Clegg | Dreamstime
Prague’s Christmas Market runs through early January at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, with smaller markets nearby. The square fills with decorated wooden huts selling handcrafted gifts, traditional pastries such as trdelnik, sausages, and warming drinks like mulled wine and local Pilsner. -
© Mapics | Dreamstime
Germany is synonymous with Christmas markets. Frankfurt’s festive market ranks among the country’s largest and most picturesque. Stalls on Römerberg and St. Paul’s Square offer handmade crafts, local specialties and live music, while many of the region’s Christmas trees come from nearby Schmallenberg Sauerland. -
© Lovethrugrace | Dreamstime
Chicago’s Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza is one of the largest in the United States, attracting over a million visitors annually. Inspired by Nuremberg’s market, it features choirs, brass bands, German and Central European vendors, and a variety of seasonal food and drink. -
© Svitlana Imnadze | Dreamstime
Portland’s Festival of Lights at The Grotto offers a surprisingly grand holiday experience. With more than a million lights, kinetic fire sculptures, seasonal performances and shopping venues, the festival combines visual spectacle with live events and family-friendly attractions. -
© Calin-andrei Stan | Dreamstime
Budapest’s Christmas Fair on Vörösmarty Square features charming wooden stalls, outdoor stages and traditional treats like chimney cake and honey cookies. The market atmosphere combines gastronomy, crafts and performances—perfect for pairing with a ride on the festive streetcar or a visit to the city’s thermal baths. -
© Sven Hansche | Dreamstime
Hyde Park in London transforms into Winter Wonderland each holiday season. The festival features ice skating, carol concerts, food stalls, shopping villages and circus-style entertainment, alongside the city’s theater scene, cozy pubs and historic hotels that extend the festive mood. -
© Deymos | Dreamstime
Zagreb’s Advent celebration brings the city to life with music, dance, markets and seasonal flavors. The festive streets provide an inviting holiday atmosphere, with a strong reputation among European travelers for its vibrant seasonal events.
