Looking for unique holiday gifts? Stop by one of these European Christmas markets this November!

The hardest part about visiting these European Christmas markets will be choosing which to go to—and when! Be prepared to find things you didn't even know you needed at these traditional holiday gatherings representing Norway, Iceland, Ukraine, and more.

Though most vendors will be prepared to take checks or credit cards, you'll want to hit the ATM before you go for a bit of cash. You may also want to read up on the authentic food and drink that will be served, so you know which line to get into before the favorites sell out.

Norwegian Christmas Bazaar

You've got two days to explore this traditional Norwegian Christmas bazaar. Browse the stalls for authentic baked goods, ornaments, textiles, and more—all straight from Norway!

Norwegian Christmas Market

Courtesy of the Norwegian Society

Annual Danish Christmas Bazaar

Have you ever tried Danish ebelskiver, or pancake puffs? See how they're made and try all sorts of delicacies while you shop!

ornaments

Courtesy of The Danish Club of Washington, D.C. on Facebook

Czech Christmas Market

You'll find beautiful Czech crystal, glass ornaments, and more as the Embassy of the Czech Republic welcomes you to this highly anticipated annual event. Children will love seeing the animals of the living Nativity scene. Be prepared to show a photo ID at the door and leave large bags at home.

ornaments, birds

Courtesy of the Embassy of the Czech Republic on Facebook

Icelandic Christmas Bazaar

I can personally attest that the food and hand-knit items at this bazaar are excellent. You simply won't find gorgeous wool sweaters like this anywhere in a shop. Don't miss out on the unique hot dogs (get them with all of the toppings) and open-faced sandwiches—they're scrumptious!

Icelandic Christmas Bazaar, sweaters

Courtesy of the Icelandic Association of Washington D.C.

Finnish Christmas Bazaar

This annual bazaar has been delighting Finns in the DMV for over five decades! With a wide array of Finnish baked goods, gifts, ornaments, and more, you'll find everything you need to get ready for the holidays. You can bid in a silent auction or even enter a raffle for $1,000 toward a trip to Helsinki!

Finnish Christmas Bazaar

Courtesy of Finn Spark

Ukrainian Christmas Bazaar

When you come to this annual market, you'll want to come hungry for the traditional flavors of the Ukraine. They'll be serving a full authentic lunch with delicacies like borscht, perogi, and crepes. Vendors will be on hand with holiday gifts, books, baked goods, and ornament, so bring plenty of cash!

Christmas bazaar

Courtesy of the Ukrainian Catholic Shrine of the Holy Family

Will you be going to one of these European Christmas markets this year? What are some of your favorite traditional holiday foods that first-timers shouldn't miss? Let us know in the comments!

Sarina Petrocelly
Born in Laos but raised in Haiti and South Florida, Sarina developed a taste for international cuisine at an early age. Now in Woodbridge, VA, she likes to explore the area for the best authentic dives, freshest local produce, and downright yummiest meals in the DMV. When she’s not out with friends or family, she's home with her musician/artist husband Tony and their Jindo, Hachi. She enjoys cooking and finding activities that can drown out heavy metal guitar riffs.
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