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There is no better way of getting into the festive spirit than going to a Christmas market. These traditional events, usually held in town squares, have been popular in Europe for centuries and, as they coincide with Advent, mark the beginning of the festive season.<\/p>\n
The markets, which typically operate from the end of November until Christmas Eve, offer a real taste of local culture. Many of the stalls sell regional specialities, particularly food and drink. They offer much more than somewhere to do your Christmas shopping as the communities often lay on plenty of musical and dance events, plus a nativity play.<\/p>\n
Hamiltons Removals organises removals to Germany, Switzerland and a host of other European destinations. Here are six of the most famous Christmas markets on the continent.<\/p>\n
Dresden<\/strong><\/p>\n This is one of the oldest markets, not just in Germany but the whole of Europe, and dates back to 1434. The main event is known as Striezelmarket after the so-called \u2018Dresden Christmas cake\u2019 which was originally called \u2018striezel\u2019. It is held in the town\u2019s old market square, and the focal point is a 14 metre high Christmas pyramid.<\/p>\n There are also lots of separate, themed markets in other neighbouring streets. Arts and crafts items are among the most popular purchases, and you can watch woodcarvers and glassblowers in action at some stalls. Festive concerts are also held in various venues throughout the city.<\/p>\n Berlin<\/strong><\/p>\n The German capital has more than 60 different markets, catering for every conceivable taste. The Gendarmemarket features jugglers, fire-eaters and acrobats, while the market in front of the Red Town Hall is aimed more at children, with pony and sleigh rides, street artists and storytellers.<\/p>\n For the environmentally conscious there is also a Green market, with lots of ethically-sourced goods, and even Santa is dressed in green. The largest and most traditional market is held in Spandau, a western district of the city, where up to 400 stall-holders sell their wares.<\/p>\n Stuttgart<\/strong><\/p>\n More than 250 wooden chalets fill the Market Square and neighbouring Schillerplatz for this lively Christmas market. Family entertainment includes a miniature steam railway, and an outdoor ice skating rink for the sporting types.<\/p>\n As well as a full range of local culinary specialities, the event includes an antiques market held on Karlsplatz which offers rare books, jewellery, porcelain and other collectibles. Christmas concerts take place in the courtyard of the Old Castle.<\/p>\n Berne<\/strong><\/p>\n For those people interested in removals to Switzerland, the country has embraced the traditions of Christmas markets, with Berne hosting two events, each with its own character.<\/p>\n At Munsterplatz you will find plenty of locally-made arts and crafts, including pottery, hand-painted silk scarves, glassware and textiles. Waisenhausplatz offers more traditional Christmas market fare, including food and drink plus clothes and children\u2019s toys.<\/p>\n