Christmas markets
Each year, one of the most popular Christmas fairs takes place in the heart of Tallinn medieval Old Town’s Town hall square. Crafts people and stall holders offer handicraft, wool and cotton, leather and wood, jewellery and toys, hot drinks and warm snacks, Christmas decorations and handmade scented candles, which make this an ideal place for the Christmas shopping. Naturally, the true Santa Clause will be there and various concerts and shows take place, entertaining the whole family. No wonder the queen of Belgium likes to do her Christmas shopping here!
Be sure to try out traditional Estonian Christmas food, influenced by our German history – sauerkraut, sausages, blood and black pudding, pork roast and spicy gingerbread.
This year, the famous Town hall square market will get a nice addition. Just 10 minutes walk away, in the modern and newly renovated Rotermann area, will be another Christmas market focusing on local produce, food and handicraft.
The Rotermann quarter is famous not only for its architecture, but for the urban bohemian vibe it carries; it’s a home for several artists and galleries, the largest of them being the Rotermann Creative Area (Loovala), where more than 20 artists practice their art from sculptures to jewellery and textiles. Regular workshops take place here and visitors are welcome to approach the artists for tips and private lessons. Or would you like to make your presents just a tiny bit sweeter this year? The Rotermann quarter is also home to a chocolaterie, where anyone and everyone regardless of their age can learn the art of painting and sculpting marzipan and making truffles.
Be active and enjoy the snow in Tallinn!
Tallinn Old Town is a wonderful place for walks with its cobble-stone streets, medieval buildings, cosy cafés and small galleries proving incredible scenery in the day time as well as during the night when the city is beautifully lit up. Just dress up warm and enjoy the architecture and historic settings.
Enjoy the most unique memories of winter in Tallinn by ice skating in the Old Town. Every year, Tallinn has an open air public skating rink built in front of the majestic St. Nicholas (Niguliste) church and with snowflakes falling, centuries of history surrounding you and wind rushing through your hair, it’s an experience you’re not likely to forget. Skating is fun, don’t hesitate to join in, just rent the skates on the spot and test your skills, whether you are an experienced figure skater or a true novice.
You can enjoy more active winter sports, too. During winter the Tallinn Song Festival grounds are turned into a active winter sports area and have snowboard, ski, sledge and snow-tubing tracks. There are separate lanes available for children and more challenging ones for young athletes, fun that everyone can join in! During cold and snowy winters the nearby Kadrioru park hosts a snow & ice town with small and large sculptures, sliding attractions, climbing castles and stands with hot drinks and snacks to attract young and old alike.
Just 10 minutes drive from the city central are the suburbs of Pirita and Nõmme, both popular among skiers. Enjoy cross country skiing in professional and well-lit ski tracks and rent equipment or hire a trainer on the spot.
Winter in Tallinn is fun and has plenty to offer for everyone, Just take a look at our events calendar and book your accommodation in advance, as Christmas is a favourite holiday season!
