Christmas is more than a holiday it&rsquos that time of the year that brings people together, there is a celebratory cheer in the air, and an abundance of the warm, fuzzy feeling. Think mulled wine warming your cockles or a mug of hot chocolate in one gloved hand and shopping bags packed with gifts in the other. And adding on to this festive cheer are Christmas markets. While we may not be able to visit them this season, here is a list 5 Christmas markets for your bucket list
Munich, Germany
Munich's market locations can't compete with Münchner Weihnachtsmarkt, which dates to the 14th century. There are dozens of stalls, sparkling beneath a 30-meter-tall Christmas tree, in a festive atmosphere of music, craft, and baking workshops. Everywhere you turn, you can smell the familiar scent of Glühwein from Munich's Christmas markets. Glühwein, also known as mulled wine, is a beverage served outdoors during the winter holiday season. You can't ever go wrong with a warm mug of Glühwein
Great Dickens Christmas Fair, San Francisco
Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco presents Victorian London in an old-world atmosphere that will make you feel at home. The three-acre site has exhibition halls, pubs, theatres, dance floors, tea rooms and shops that transport you back to a bygone age when festive celebrations were the pinnacle of the social year. Getting dressed up is entirely acceptable, encouraged even. Here you'll also find a festive Dickens family Christmas feast with main course filled with turkey, duck, and chicken platters, along with all the sides and extras, a booze-laden dessert, and immersive cocktails inspired by Victorian London.
Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium
Brussels Winter Wonders is one of Europe's top Christmas markets for families. Shoppers and thrill-seekers will find numerous outlets and shops, while those looking for excitement will enjoy merry-go-rounds and Ferris wheels, as well as ski slopes and an ice rink. Brussels has the most beautiful square in Europe, The Grand Place, which is the first thing tourists notice when they arrive in the city. Additionally, Brussels is well known for its Belgian waffles and savoury chocolate.
Wenceslas and Old Town Markets, Prague
The best city markets in Prague are in Wenceslas Square and in the Old Town Square, both only a short walk away. Right from handicrafts to glassware to wooden toys, as well as world-renowned Czech beer, you&rsquoll find everything here. Apart from mouth watering delicacies and intricate crafts, you can also find Christmas special drinks &mdash hot chocolate and mulled wine. One can also find an extensive selection of Christmas decorations, toys, jewellery, apparel, and accessories that are great gifting ideas and perfect to carry back as souvenirs.
Toronto Christmas Market, Canada
Contrary to popular misconception, the best markets are not necessarily found in Europe. A variety of activities, including the arrival of Saint Nicholas on his white horse, are part of the Toronto Christmas Market, which offers beer gardens lit by campfires, locally-made wares and a variety of activities. All the cafes, restaurants, and shop windows are decorated with Christmas lights that you can enjoy with a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows and, of course, the beautiful fragrance of Christmas trees.