Holiday Markets Dazzle and Delight Around the World

Follow the dazzling holiday decorations, from lights and garland to wooden huts charmingly called chalets, until these holiday markets hit the rest of your senses. Crowds can gather around campfires, kids can jump on rides, and carolers may even emerge in song.

Most of these seasonal destinations are known for delivering aesthetic (and inevitable retail) magic, but we’re always following the flavor. What distinguishes each standout market is the local specialties — from confections to meats and drinks — that make the sensory and human experiences even more memorable.

Aromas of mulled wine — however you order it (gløgg in Denmark, glühwein in Germany, forralt bor in Budapest) — savory pies, and tons of sweets entice attendees amid rows of artisan crafts and specialty gifts. Take part in flavorful beverage traditions from German feuerzangenbowle and Mexican ponche to Hungarian plum pálinka and Dreden’s eggnog, eierpunsch.

There’s plenty more to surprise and delight. Pair smoky s’mores hot chocolate and international fare, from liege waffles to Malaysian curry paste, at New York City’s array of markets near major transportation hubs. Don’t miss chimney cakes in the UK or flame cake in Germany. Dresden has such a special stollen, it’s a protected product, and Denmark has a Christmas lunch ritual called julefrokost.

Ireland’s best markets in Belfast and beyond serve mince pies and toasties. British markets promise proper Yorkshire pudding and West Country cider brandy. Montreal has super-specific market themes, from Japanese to recycled to gothic. Lisbon has an only-found-here sangria in Baixa-Chiado, and Edinburgh has ornaments made from reclaimed Scotch-whisky barrels.

European traditions bring U.S. cities to life, from Chicago to Cincinnati to Carmel, Indiana. Indulge in Alpine-inspired raclette, plenty of takes on gingerbread, Czech-style kolaches, and Austrian strudel at these fun-filled and festive markets.

Whether you want to see a massive fruitcake paraded through a city or a sugarloaf set on fire for a dramatic drink, these holiday festivities will make winter travel all the more magical, delicious, and yes, picture-perfect. And they’re the ultimate way to curate your holiday gifts as you go.