One of the best things about living in the DMV is the international community's ever-changing cultural event schedule. This weekend is going to be huge for Christmas markets -- you've got three to choose from on November 10!
First up is the Czech Christmas Market, hosted at The Embassy of the Czech Republic. Enjoy mulled wine and eggnog, an assortment of baked goods, and stall after stall of the world-renowned Czech crystal and glass products -- including unique Christmas ornaments and jewelry.
The live animals in the nativity scene will enchant your little ones, and lambs, goats, and alpacas will be on hand for cuddles and selfies. The children of Sokol Washington, a Czech community organization, will perform Czech Christmas carols at 11 a.m. View the event details on the official embassy event page.
If you've never been to an embassy before, this is a great opportunity to visit one! Keep in mind, you're technically on foreign soil when you're there -- how cool is that?
WHEN: Saturday, November 10, 2018 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
WHERE: Embassy of the Czech Republic | 3900 Spring of Freedom Street NW in Washington, D.C.
COST: FREE, no reservations required
PARKING: Free street parking and pay lots near Rock Creek Park
Courtesy of Tres Bohemes
The Annual Danish Christmas Bazaar, sponsored by the Royal Danish Embassy, will be held at Saint Elizabeth's Church in Rockville this year, also on November 10. Try real Danish open-faced sandwiches and pastries at the pop-up cafe, and watch a cooking demonstration on how to make Ebleskiver, Danish pancake puffs. After learning how to make them, sample some!
Browse imported Danish goods like embroideries, porcelain, jewelry, and Christmas decor. The Christmas booth will feature handmade mobiles, Advent calendars, and all kinds of home and table decor. Stock up on natural greens and wreaths at the greenery booth and let your kids build on the LEGO activity table. For more information, visit the event site.
WHEN: Saturday, November 10, 2018 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
WHERE: Saint Elizabeth's Church | 917 Montrose Road in Rockville, MD
COST: FREE
PARKING: Free surface lot
Courtesy of Loom
The Icelandic Christmas Bazaar, hosted by The Icelandic Association of Washington, D.C., is being held in Fairfax this year at American Legion Post 177. Have you ever wondered what a fish leather handbag looks like? Find those and much more for sale, including Icelandic wool sweaters, imported rugs, pottery, ornaments, jewelry, and artwork. Iceland is known for its hand-knitted wool mittens and hats, so be sure to try some on!
Enjoy live music and feast on Icelandic hot dogs, cookies, cakes, and Icelandic crepes with whipped cream and jam. Yum! For more information, view the event website.
WHEN: Saturday, November 10, 2018 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
WHERE: American Legion Post 177 | 3939 Oak Street in Fairfax, VA
COST: FREE
Courtesy of Fridgg
Regardless of whichever bazaar you end up at, bring the whole family to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season as it is celebrated in a different country. Maybe start a new family tradition by including a visit to a Christmas market this year!
Have you been to an international Christmas bazaar? Which one is your favorite? What foods or drinks must absolutely be sampled? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for something else to do this weekend? Check out our DMV Weekend Roundup!
