Strings of lights twinkle, special foods are prepared, and communities come together on town squares to rejoice as Christmas markets are the heart of Estonian winter holidays. When you stop by, games, performances, delicious flavours, and a cheerful atmosphere await the whole family.
Tallinn was named the Best Christmas Market in Europe in 2019 with festivities and stalls in the Old Town Square, Tallinn remains a top holiday pick in 2021 as one of Europe's safest Christmas destinations.
The holiday market, a merry meeting place
The Christmas season is one the most important times of year in Estonia, dating back to ancient pagan celebrations that took place around the winter solstice. Holiday markets are the historical focal point and meeting place for towns during the wintertime, and today you can still brush shoulders with locals while enjoying the season's ambiance. Shop for handmade Christmas gifts from local artisans that aren't sold during the rest of the year, including luxurious furs, intricately knit socks, and wooden decorations. Savour seasonal treats like blood pudding, gingerbread cookies, and warm mulled wine.
Christmas Markets across Estonia
While Tallinn's Christmas Market is known around the world, there are other fairs happening through Estonia's charming towns.
- 26 Nov 2021 - 2 Jan 2022. The traditional Tallinn Christmas Market with a touch of a fairy tale will be held at the Town Hall Square of Tallinn. The star of the market is the Christmas tree, which is the most important Christmas tree in Estonia and has been set up in Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first Christmas tree ever to be put up in Europe.
- 28 Nov 2021 - 24 Dec 2021. In Tartu, you can go and let the scent of gingerbread and fir trees delight you at Christmas City Tartu happening in Tartu Town Square.
- 3 - 5 Dec 2021. The festivities happening during the weekends leading up to Christmas, so plan accordingly. In the same city, you'll find the Christmas Fair at the Tartu Exhibition Fair Centre. This means that if you're near Tartu, then you have the chance to enjoy three different Christmas markets and have a truly merry season!
- 4 Dec 2021. In Tartu County, you can enjoy the holiday in the ambiance of a castle at the Alatskivi Castle Christmas Castle.
Take your pick of whatever Christmas market you want to see most. And if you have the time, you can see them all and enjoy the festivities of Estonian Christmas markets again and again.
