Dimensie

What we know now as Christmas markets originated in Vienna, Austria. In 1298, the emperor of Vienna wanted his citizens to stock up on supplies before heading into the cold dark winter months. Vendors sold their items like meat and dairy in several market stands throughout December, ending the day before Christmas. Since then, similar markets have been held in various cities in Germany as well. The first market considered as a Christmas market like we have now was held in Dresden in 1424. Nowadays the markets are not a necessity for getting through winter, but mostly serve for entertainment and relaxation purposes. People spend afternoons and evenings exploring all that the markets have to offer. Each market has its own flair, which results in quite different markets. The following part goes into three distinct markets in Europe; the markets in Dresden, the market in Valkenburg, and the market in Røros.

Dresden

To start off, we have the market of all markets; Dresden! The place where the first Christmas market was held still transforms into a festive city each December. Strolling through the cobbled streets, you will find rows of beautifully decorated wooden stands filled with handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, and the smell of freshly baked Stollen, Dresden’s famous Christmas cake. The air is filled with laughter, the sounds of carolers, and the easily recognisable smell of Glühwein being heated up.

Each of the seven different markets hold their own charm—whether it’s a big traditional market besides the church, to more of a shopping mall vibe. The one thing thats the same everyone is people gathering around to share steaming cups of glühwein or enjoy some of the many food options. I always look forward to a warm crepe! 

But what makes Dresden’s Christmas markets truly unforgettable is the atmosphere. The blend of tradition, community, and the city itself creates a setting that feels like stepping into a winter fairytale. And the best of all? It is very accessible from Enschede! Step into the train at the central station and about 1,5 hours later you are there.

Valkenburg

The second Christmas market is also not too far from Enschede. Nestled in the hills (or mountains, if you will) of the south of the Netherlands, Valkenburg transforms into a magic village during the Christmas market season. But this is no ordinary market. Valkenburg is known for its caves, and that is where the Christmas market takes place! The softly lit caves really add to the cosy vibe and magical feeling of Christmas. At the market you will find a collection of handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, and delicious treats.

Above ground, the market continues with twinkling lights, cheerful carolers, and lots of cozy areas to enjoy a warm drink or a plate of fresh poffertjes. In addition to all of this there is also a parade that travels through all the streets, which lifts the magical vibe even more.

Roros

Gizella, one of the current Board members, visited a Christmas market in Norway. You can read her experience below!

As a lover of Christmas markets, the Røros Christmas Market is one of the cutest I have ever seen. It is nestled in the picturesque town of Røros in Norway, a tiny mountain village in the Trøndelag region. Røros is one of the oldest municipalities in Europe that still has wooden buildings, which even gave them a UNESCO World Heritage status! It is also one of the coldest villages in Norway, with temperatures dropping to -20 degrees Celsius. This means that in winter, it transforms into a winter wonderland, with its snow-covered stress illuminated by twinkling lights and lined with traditional Norwegian wooden houses in all kinds of colours.

During the Christmas market, artisans and vendors from all over Norway set up their little shops all around the village in cozy stalls, offering a variety of handcrafted goods, local delicacies and festive treats. The ultimate place to get some Christmas souvenirs! From handmade traditional Norwegian mittens from wool to reindeer hotdogs, everything Norway-related can be found here. Be sure to get some gløgg (Norwegian mulled wine) with some freshly baked lefse (soft Norwegian flatbread, often eaten with butter, sugar and cinnamon) as you walk through the snowy streets in your winter attire (read: 5 layers and ski pants).

It's also really funny to watch locals walk around there with sleighs on which their children are sitting, and when going downhill, they place their feet on both sides of the sleigh and slide down together. There are also reindeer walking around that you can pet and carollers strolling and singing Christmas melodies!

 As you can see, Røros offers more than just a Christmas market; it is a celebration of community and culture that captures the true essence of Norwegian winter. So, if you are as much of a Christmas market lover as I am, make sure to place this one on your bucket list, you don’t want to miss it! And if you’re lucky, you might even catch some northern lights.