The winter nights are drawing in and the festive season will soon be upon us. Whether you’re looking for a local Santa’s grotto for the grandkids or you want to treat yourself to a last-minute European city break, there’s plenty of Christmas-themed fun to be had.
Keep reading for your rundown of some of the best festive getaways, Christmas markets, and winter wonderlands to enjoy over the coming months.
1. Prague Christmas Market, Czechia
Beginning with the furthest afield market on our list, Prague is the capital of Czechia (commonly known in English as the Czech Republic).
The Prague Christmas Markets begin on 2nd December 2023 and run to 6 January 2024. They’re even open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, making them the perfect excuse for a last-minute festive break.
There are two main markets, held in the Old Town Square – also home to the city’s famous astronomical clock – and Wenceslas Square in the heart of the city’s New Town. Entry to both markets is free, and the squares are just a 5-minute walk apart.
You’ll find an incredible atmosphere, local food and drink, and hand-crafted products, as well as an extensive programme of events including traditional folk bands and school choirs, with children travelling from all over the country to attend.
The theme for this year’s market has yet to be announced (last year it was “heavenly Christmas”), so watch this space and start planning your trip now.
2. Salzburg Christmas Market, Austria
Salzburg is Austria’s fourth-largest city and home to a Christmas market that dates back to the 15th century.
Located in the shadow of the spectacular and intimidating Hohensalzburg fortress, and just next to the equally impressive Cathedral of Salzburg, the market has an enchanting atmosphere.
Cathedral and Residenz Square will be transformed from 23 November 2023 to 1 January 2024, with a huge area of craft and food and drink stalls as well as entertainment. The latter comes in the form of choral singing and “Turmblasen”, which literally translates as “tower bubbles” or “tower blowing” and began with the tradition of tower keepers or town pipers playing trombones to mark important local events.
The Christmas carol ‘Silent Night’ was written and performed for the first time at the nearby church of St Nicholas in Oberndorf. That makes Salzburg the perfect place to celebrate a traditional Christmas, so why not party like it’s 24 December 1818?
3. Edinburgh Christmas Market
If you’re looking to stay slightly closer to home this Christmas, consider a trip to Edinburgh’s historic city centre.
Running from Friday 17 November 2023 to Saturday 6 January 2024, you’ll find the Christmas market transforms the city into a winter wonderland with festive fun for all the family.
Alongside traditional Christmas markets, with all the food, drink, and incredible Christmas gifts you’d expect, there’s plenty else going on. From funfair rides and a big wheel to live music and events there’s something for everyone.
Depending on the day you arrive you might even be in time to witness the When You Wish Upon a Star Santa Fun Run. Starting from the Ross Bandstand at 9.30 am on 10 December, it’s a great day for a great cause.
4. Bath Christmas Market
After a triumphant post-Covid return in 2022, the Bath Christmas returns between Thursday 23 November and Sunday 10 December.
Organisers are expecting around half a million people throughout the event, making Bath Christmas market one of the most popular in the UK.
Among more than 200 amazing stalls of food, drink, crafts, and artwork, you’ll also find charities and community groups keen to make a difference this winter.
After a 2022 revamp, you should find eased congestion and improved light display, allowing you to bask in the beauty of this historic city well into the night.
5. Various Christmas-themed events in and around Twickenham
Kingston Christmas Market (16 November to 31 December)
Head to Kingston’s Ancient Market Place for a local take on some of the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer.
From bratwurst to hog roasts and global street food stalls you’ll find everything you need to ease your hunger and plenty to quench your thirst.
Beneath twinkling fairy lights you’ll also find rides for kids, live music, and an array of stalls to help you stock up on last-minute gifts.
Teddington Sparkle festive fair (17 November to 19 November) and Christmas lights (23rd November)
On the weekend of 17 to 19 November, the Landmark Arts Centre in Teddington opens its doors to local artists and craftspeople. You’ll find sellers of an array of homemade and handcrafted goods from ceramics and jewellery to candles, soaps, small-batch beers and spirits. The perfect place to kick off your Christmas Shopping.
And then, on 23 November, the ever-popular lantern procession will set off from Church Road in Teddington, with Christmas lights, live music and stalls along its route.
There will be performances on the High Street stage from Richmond Theatre, Canine Gymkana, and the Hornets, plus the Landmark Choir and Tom Speight closing the night.
You’ll also find the Salvation Army Band, RNLI, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Choir, Teddington Rugby and Rotary Club all bringing their unique forms of festive entertainment to what promises to be a great night.
Kew Sparkle (1 December)
Head to Kew Village on 1 December for a Christmas fair supported by local schools, businesses and residents.
You’ll find plenty of Christmas gift ideas, as well as food and drink, and entertainment, from a mobile Nativity farm to fairground rides and festive music. There will also be performances from the primary school choirs and the Rock Choir.
