The most wonderful day of the year is approaching and Estonian towns have already started huge preparations for it. Sparkling lights, gracefully-decorated evergreen trees, merry-go-rounds, and wooden booths welcomed the very first snowflakes and visitors about a week ago, but the real celebrations are ahead.
While wandering in the cozy streets, follow the gentle smell of ginger cookies or pungent aroma of hot mulled wine and you’ll enter the magical world of Estonian Christmas Markets. You can find everything and everyone here – handmade fluffy mufflers and hats, knitted socks, pottery toys and colorful souvenirs, tasty local food and beverages, kids with blushing cheeks, couples walking arm in arm with each other, and even that mysterious guy from Lapland.
If you have not decided which Christmas Market to visit in Estonia, I’ll try to give you some good reasons for traveling around. Take a look at these amazing pictures and feel the Christmas spirit:
- Tallinn Christmas Market
Dates: 16.11.2018-7.01.2019
Time: 10:00 – 19:00
Location: Kesklinna linnaosa, Raekoja platsTallinn Christmas Market is one of the most popular tourist destinations during winter. A beautifully decorated Christmas tree, glittering lights, and the endless playlist of your favorite holiday songs will make each visit unforgettable. - Tartu Christmas Market
The city of good thoughts transforms into the Village of Light during December and promises a lot of adventures and beautiful moments. The Town Hall square of Tartu will host dancers, singers, smiling faces, and hopefully, some mushy snow.
Tartu Christmas Fair Dates: 08.12.2018; 14.12.2019
Time: 11:00 – 17:00
Location: Tartu linn, Tartu Raekoja plats
photos: visitestonia.com
Christmas City Tartu Dates: 02.12.2018; 01.12.2019 – 10.01.2019
Time: 17:00
Location: Tartu linn, Tartu Raekoja plats - Paide Christmas Festival
If you’re traveling with the family, Paide is the perfect city to visit. Sweet-sounding church songs, folk concerts, tree decorating activities, the little helpers of Santa and their performances, handmade crafts, and local delicious food will melt your heart during cold winter eves.
Dates: 08.12.2018
Time: 10:00
Location: Paide
photos: visitestonia.com
- Winter Fair at Narva
Hot chocolates, delicious cookies, and cakes, beautifully wrapped gifts, various master classes, and a surprisingly pleasant atmosphere will help you re-discover this cozy, eastern city of Estonia and make you feel at home during the magical Christmas nights.
Dates:15.12.2018
Time: 10:00 – 16:00
Location: Narva
photos: visitestonia.com
- Christmas Fair at Pärnu
Toy, handicraft, and food fairs? I think you don’t need any more reasons to visit the most popular summer-place during winter time. Frozen river and the Baltic sea, covered with fluttering snowflakes, will boost your Christmas Spirit.
Dates: 07.12.2018- 24.12.2018
Time: 10:00-20:00
Location: Pärnu linn, Kaubamajakas
photos: visitestonia.com
Everyone loves Christmas…
If not, I’m sure these beautiful cities will make you change your mind. Share your thoughts, favorite places, stories and discover Estonian Christmas Markets with me!
