First Christmas markets appeared in Germany and this country still boasts more than 125 of them each year! As a rule Weihnachtsmarkt or Christkindlmarkt can be found on the main square of the city. Open-air stalls sell traditional food and drinks, such as gingerbread (Lebkuchen) and mulled wine (Glühwein). Handmade decorations and exclusive gifts can be found there as well. But it is the atmosphere people come for, not only shopping. A stage is erected where the story of the holiday is retold and Christmas carols are sung by children choirs. After all, the true holiday spirit is about peace, love and kindness.

Here is a short list of other cities where our Private Guides can arrange the visit of the best Christmas markets, serve as interpreters and help you get in the right mood for festive cheer:

Name: Vánoční trhy
Place: Prague, Czech Republic
Date: December 1, 2012 - January 1, 2013

Actually there are two Christmas markets in Prague: at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. A whole Advent Village with typical houses with red roof welcomes visitors and locals to try traditional refreshments, buy some small gifts and enjoy the Annual International Festival of Christmas and Advent Music. Don't miss Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony (every Saturday at 17:45)! And should you come on Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve, Mikulášská (Czech colleague of Santa Claus) himself will treat you to the famous fish soup.

Name: El Mercadillo Navideño
Place: Madrid, Spain
Date: December 5, 2012 - early January, 2013

As is traditional, Plaza Mayor's Christmas Market will fill the square with stalls selling decorations and all kinds of Christmas gifts. The twinkling lights and the wonderful nativity scenes will highlight the festive atmosphere. At the same time Plaza de España will host the 21st Crafts Fair. Another must see place is the recently renovated Plaza de Isabel II. As a part of the Music in the City series, a selection of music groups and choirs (from classical music to jazz and flamenco) will be performing over the Christmas holidays there. Be sure to try roscón de reyes (a traditional ring-shaped cake) to learn what the season tastes like in Spain!

Name: Tallinna Jõuluturg
Place: Tallinn, Estonia
Date: November 26, 2012 - January 7, 2013

Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) receives visitors wishing to prepare for the celebration. Lots of traditional Estonian handicraft gifts and Chrismas ornaments are sold by their authors, who offer diverse master classes during the market opening hours.  Children will fall in love with snow sculptures and a mini-zoo with rabbits, goats, lambs, ponies and geese. Song and dance groups and choirs from different countries perform on weekends.

Name: Plaisirs d'hiver - Winterpret - Winter Wonders
Place: Brussels, Belgium
Date: November 30, 2012 - January 6, 2013

One of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe stretches for 2 km and offers souvenirs and holiday delicacies from different countries. Excellent attractions, such as an Observation Wheel, slalom and an ice-skating rink, are close at hand. It would be unthinkable to be there and leave without visiting at least one of the spectacular shows scheduled in December: Light Parade on St. Nicolas' Eve, "Les Flamboyants" Fire Parade, the Manneken Pis Corrida or "Les Pastoureaux" Choir concert. 

Name: Christmas Market
Place: New York City, USA
Date: November 16, 2012 - December 24, 2013

And the last but not the least, the Union Square Holiday Market in New York is an ideal place to spend a couple of days to learn more about an American way of Christmas celebration. Christmas cards, handmade jewellery and leather belts, even pet accessories can be found here. This market is also known for the food stalls with traditional dishes which can be either consumed right on spot or taken home for the loved ones.