For some some Christmas is the most magical holiday. This year you can experience it from another angle by visiting one of three Baltic countries’ Christmas markets. Moreover, I shall give you information about each of them, hope that it can help you make up your mind.
Vilnius
This year, Vilnius surprises its tourists with an incredible Christmas tree in the heart of the city and two Christmas markets in the center of town, which can easily be visited in one evening. With over 50 market stalls decorated as cozy wooden houses, the gift hunt process for your loved ones will not be a challenge at all.
While you’re here, you should try the local apple cake or kūčiukai (small sweet pastries) normally soaked in poppy milk, kisielius (a drink made from cranberries) or homemade cider.
On 25 – 29 December, The 3D Fairy Tale is going to take place on the Big Wall of Vilnius Cathedral. The 3D Fairy Tale is the biggest Christmas attraction in Vilnius and attracts over 120,000 visitors each year. This Fairy Tale stands out for the unique play of the lights and its vivid colors.
Come and become a part of the Christmas fairy tale in the Capital city! Linksmų Kalėdų!
Riga
Gingerbread and mulled wine scent will follow you around the Christmas markets on Doma laukums and Līvu laukums squares, as well as in Esplenāde Park (which has the added attraction of a cute “village” populated by real rabbits).
Here you will have a wide range of Christmas gifts, for example, patterned mittens, skillfully turned wooden candlesticks, jarred sunny-smelling Latvian honey, sweet-smelling wax candles etc. Besides shopping, you will have the opportunity to learn more about different Latvian traditions such log dragging and traditional Christmas cooking.
Note for yourself: Riga has been named the best-value city for a Christmas market mini-break by Post Office Travel Money
Priecīgus Ziemassvētkus!
Tallinn
Over 40,000 lights lit for the Christmas Market on the Town Hall Square where a charming Christmas tree is displayed. This Christmas tree is the most important one because it is known that the first Christmas tree ever to be put on display in Europe has been set up in Town Hall, Tallinn, Estonia in 1441.
Here, you can try the traditional Estonian cuisine. The selection is large: from well-known Christmas dishes, such as sauerkraut and blood sausages, to fish and duck.
On Christmas Eve, 1.700 artists will perform on the Town Hall Square stage, which includes diverse folk dance groups.
The Telegraph included Tallinn in Top 15 the best Christmas markets in Europe, so don’t miss the chance to see it! Häid Jõule!
No matter where you are going to celebrate Christmas I wish you a jolly one with your loved people.
Merry Christmas to everyone!
Written By:
Georgeta Galusca (Moldova)
BA in Business Administration
