Nothing brings out the kid in all of us quite like cozy winter evenings after festive events. For folks who celebrate with Old Saint Nick, Christmas markets aren’t just a way to get all your shopping done at once. They’re celebrations with fun, food, family, and lots of holiday spirit. We’ve scouted out some of the best Christmas towns in the U.S. and abroad. Pack your bags, but leave some room for goodies!
Dresden, Germany
November 28 – December 24
Dresden is an inspiration for many winter festivities around the world. Since 1434, the city has been home to Dresden Striezelmarkt, Germany’s oldest event of this kind, as well as several other whimsical holiday fairs, including Winter Lights of Dresden. Don’t forget to practice the German seasonal greeting, “Fröhliche Weihnachten.”
Denver, Colorado
November 16 – December 23
With close ties to the community’s German-American heritage, Denver Christkindl Market is a great place to experience the joys of a German holiday without leaving the U.S. Plus, Denver is a winter wonderland, and the perfect setting to celebrate the season at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The festival stirs up this mountain metropolis with European comfort foods and handmade fine arts.
Honolulu, Hawaii
December 8 – 9
When you’re picking the best place to spend Christmas in the USA, don’t count out the 50th state! Hawaii’s blissful weather will woo you to the islands, and if you’re lucky enough to attend the Mele Kalikimaka Marketplace, you’re in for a unique seasonal experience. This annual event brims with holiday cheer and island flare, such as gingerbread workshops and traditional dances.
Mexico City, Mexico
December, especially Christmas week
For Christmas, the streets of Mexico City fill with parades, delicious eats, and dancing. Join the party in the Zocalo, the city’s main square. Then, leave the city center to shop for poinsettias in Xochimilco, a district built around intricate canals and floating gardens. Poinsettias — nochebuenas in Spanish — are indigenous to Mexico, and serve as festive symbols throughout the city. If you can’t take plants back home, leave a gift with new friends you’ve made during your visit.
Vienna, Austria
November 21 – January 6
Vienna is one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe, hands down. With December markets dating back to 1298, Vienna has perfected the art of the holiday festival. Visit the Austrian capital between November 21 and January 6, and you’ll be able to experience at least one of the many historical celebrations. The world-famous Wiener Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz in front of City Hall is the place to scavenge for handmade gifts and to drink your weight in holiday punch.
Daly City, California
Weekends, November 17 – December 23
Inspired by the festivities and stories of Victorian England, Daly City comes alive with characters right out of your favorite novels. The live entertainment, roasted chestnuts, and merrymaking of The Great Dickens Christmas Fair will leave you thinking, “Please, sir, I want some more.” You’re welcome to don your own historical costumes, but don’t worry — bonnets and top hats are not required!
Header and Tile Image Via Shutterstock.com/DBLimages
