10x most fun Christmas markets in the Netherlands
The end of the year is approaching and for the enthusiastic Christmas lovers among us (not me), it's high time for Christmas markets. Christmas naturally comes with kitschy Christmas ornaments, shiny figurines, gifts, and lights to illuminate not just the Christmas tree, but the whole house as well. And where better to score those than at the Christmas market? For the non-Christmas lovers among us, there's good news: they often have glühwein and delicious fresh food at these places. And I admit: the atmosphere is quite cozy. So, are you in the mood for a snug outing? Then below you'll find the ten most fun Christmas markets in the Netherlands.
1. Christmas Market Gemeentegrot Valkenburg
This nostalgic Christmas market takes place in the caves of Valkenburg. It is one of the most visited Christmas markets in Europe. There is a magical atmosphere due to the underground corridors filled with lights. You will find the most beautiful decorations and the best gifts.
2. Christmas Market in Maastricht
For the true blissful Christmas feeling, you must visit the Limburg capital. The Vrijthof is beautifully decorated and they go all out here: from the tastiest food stalls to the covered ice rink and the Ferris wheel.
3. Christmas Market in Dordrecht
This is the largest in the whole of the Netherlands, where they pay a lot of attention to the daytime program. There is plenty to do here: from various street theaters to music stages where artists perform. Make sure to set aside enough time for this market, as you will be here for a while.
4. Country & Christmas Fair in Utrecht
This beautiful Christmas market is organized in the gardens of Castle de Haar. Not only Christmas, but also outdoor life is central. You can buy, for example, brocante, outdoor clothing, jewelry, and all kinds of delicacies.
5. Royal Christmas Fair in The Hague
For the tastiest sweets, cheeses, and glühwein, you go to this atmospheric Christmas market. Various shops have displayed their goods in the many stalls, so you can grab all your Christmas gifts in one go.
6. Floating Christmas Market in Leiden
Floating Christmas market? Yes, you heard it right. In Leiden, you will find the only floating Christmas market in the Netherlands. On a platform in the water, the Christmas market is set up with no less than 75 stalls. How cozy?
7. Ice Amsterdam
Every year in December, the Museumplein is transformed into a magical winter paradise with an ice rink and Christmas market. Besides skating, you can also participate in various ice games. Had enough of the cold? Warm up with hot chocolate.
8. Dickens Christmas Festival in Deventer
The Christmas market in Deventer is combined with the annual Dickens Festival, which will take place in the third weekend of December. Immerse yourself in 19th century England and get into the Christmas spirit with Christmas carols. Sounds like a lot of fun.
9. Castle Christmas Fair in Velsen
In a beautiful ancient castle, this annual tradition takes place. Thousands of visitors come to this Christmas market for a reason. Besides the fun stalls, there is much more to experience here. Curious about this spectacle? There's a good chance there will be fireworks.
10. Christmas Market in Haarlem
This Christmas market has been around for about 25 years and is one of the largest and coziest in the Benelux. Around the Grote Markt, there are about 350 stalls with beautiful items and delicious snacks. There is even a live Dickens orchestra present that will play various Christmas songs. It can't get more Christmassy than this, I think.
Source: kerstmarkten.net
