Right, let’s recap: here on Grown-up Travel Guide we’ve covered the Christmas markets of Berlin, Paris, Stockholm, New York, Copenhagen and most recently Rome. From the Italian capital we’re going to jump to funky old Amsterdam, where as you might expect there’s a mix of both old-fashioned and contemporary markets in the festive season. Amsterdam is a beautiful place in the winter so what are you waiting for?
Amsterdam, the Netherlands – From the quirky to the traditional
Photo credit: Gertrud K. Weihnachtsmarkt via photopin (license)
City centre markets
In early November the two squares at each end of Leidsestraat -Leidseplein and Koningsplein become Christmas markets filled with stalls selling a wide range of goodies. Leidseplein is where you’ll find the ice rink and olliebollen (kind of a cross between a doughnut and a dumpling – sweet and lovely on a cold night) stands. Both markets become more Christmas-themed in December with additional activities taking place. Nearby you can check out the impressive Christmas tree in Dam Square – more than 20 metres tall and decorated with an insane number of energy-saving LED lights.
Open 2 November 2014 – 5 January 2015
Sissy Boy Christmas Market
Sissy Boy and PUP are at it again – bringing plenty of fashionably festive cheer to the Amstelkerk and terrace of nearby Café Nel with their Christmas Market on Saturday, 13 December 2014. Following the same format as the previous two events this is one for all the family with a huge range of products on sale, quality food and drink vendors and fun for the little ones in “kids’ paradise”. Search for bargains in design, jewellery, music and collectibles or pick up some hot new threads – there’s sure to be something to make someone happy.
Open 13 December 2014
Image obtained from Flickr.com under Creative Commons (c) Andreas Andrews
Flower market (Bloemenmarkt)
During December the Bloemenmarkt (the only floating flower market in the world) is the place where savvy locals pick up their Christmas trees. All shapes and sizes are on sale here and as a bonus, the Christmas Palace is located right beside the market. This is Amsterdam’s unique festive goodies emporium and is in fact open all year round – but of course this is the best time to visit.
Open 1 December 2014 – 23 December 2014
Midnight Market
One for the night-owls, this – on 21 December the Midnight Market is open between the hours of 11 pm and 5 am at the Toren in Amsterdam Noord. Enjoy the special atmosphere such a late hour affords while browsing for unusual gifts. From vintage fashion to artisan bags, the Midnight Market is a great place to pick up something special for someone special. You can also get a haircut, a tattoo or just enjoy the live performances and music provided by hip DJs. Let’s not forget all the food and drink on offer, either…
Open 21 December 2014
Pure Markt
Again, Christmas is all about the food too and those shoppers looking for organic produce and other sustainable goods should aim for the three special winter editions of the moving Pure Markt. On Sunday 14 December head to Amstelpark and on Sunday 21 December (for those last-minute shoppers) you’ll find the market in Park Frankendael. On both occasions you can visit scores of ‘green’ retailers and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Open 14 and 21 December 2014
Image (c) ferrytoholland.wordpress.com
Funky Xmas Market
Fast becoming a yuletide tradition in Amsterdam, the Funky Sunday Market is back with a special Christmas edition. At the Funky Xmas Market at the Westergasfabriek you’ll find stalls selling cheerful decorations, a range of crafts and gifts and delicious food. This year it takes place on Sunday 14 December and entrance is – as always – free.
Open 14 December 2014
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