1. Christmas Village – Philadelphia, PA, USA
Located at LOVE Park in Philly, the Christmas Village features over 80 vendors selling German delicacies and a lot more. You can expect daily live performances and a special German themed weekend on December 9-10. Kids will enjoy the presence of Santa himself every weekend for pictures and wishes. The event is partnering up with local joints this year to continue the party after dark.
2. Tomball German Christmas market – Tomball, TX, USA
www.tomballgermanchristmasmarket.com
For the fun of a Christmas market without the cold that can come with it, head south for Tomball German Christmas market. The event takes place on one weekend from December 8-10, but it is not short of fun. Over 200 vendors attend the event selling food, beer, wine, gifts and so on. Four music stages present live performances ranging from German traditional music, to bluegrass and folk. A couple of locations are dedicated to parking for visitors and you can then hop on the free shuttle to reach the celebrations.
3. Bank of America Winter Village, Manhattan, NY
www.bryantpark.org/amenities/bank-of-america-winter-village-at-bryant-park
Bryant Park is the home of the famous Winter Village that lasts until January 2. The Village features a lot more than vendors, but you will get to wander around a selection of holiday shops with New York City based artisans and around the world. A 17,000 square foot rink centers the Village where you can skate for free or rent your gears. Skating shows and special events will also take place at this location. Not a skating fan? Head down to the Activity nook to take advantage of games, craft supplies and reading material provided for free. Make sure to stop at Santa’s corner for a picture.
4. Toronto Christmas Market, ON, Canada
www.torontochristmasmarket.com
Back up north, Toronto provides such a romantic location for its biggest Christmas market that we couldn’t leave it out! The distillery district hosts the event until December 23. There are several heated beer gardens for visitors to enjoy mulled wine, beers and other European Christmas cocktails. Aside from vendors, Toronto Christmas market presents over 450 performances from signers, brass bands, cultural dances and carolers. The family entertainment zone host the man with the white beard, but also a life-sized gingerbread house, a ferris wheel and a carousel. The event is free on weekdays, but you will need to buy a ticket on weekends. You should plan ahead and purchase them online to avoid waiting in line.
5. Vancouver Christmas market – Vancouver, BC, Canada
On the West coast of Canada, Vancouver hosts an event with over 75 vendors offering European and local delicacies, sweets and treats and gifts. Expect daily live musical performances and a lot of entertainment for all the family. Children will specifically enjoy the Christmas carousel. The lovers out there should attend the special Deluxe date night on December 6. You will get special deals on food, drinks and gifts. Keep an eye open all around the market for opportunities to win prizes! A great idea from Vancouver Christmas market.
Give us your suggestions of Christmas markets in the comments below!