Crowded traditional christmas market at night with illumination ()

Most Christmas markets have their charming qualities, but once you have hit the major markets you may find yourself looking for something a little out of the ordinary. How about a romantic Christmas market, set deep in the forest? Or perhaps you’re willing to venture underground to find that perfect holiday gift? Here are a few of the more unusual Christmas markets we have found.

Christmas in a Cave

For an unusual Christmas market experience, head underground into the caves of Valkenburg to explore three different holiday venues and some above-ground fun too. The various markets and attractions will be open from Nov. 17. 2023 to Jan. 7, 2024. However, each market and attraction has its own schedule. For example, the Christmas parade is only on Wednesday’s and Sunday’s between Nov. 18 and Dec. 23. Go to christmastownvalkenburg.com for dates, maps and more information. 

Step back in time to Victorian London

For those in the U.K., visit the Gloucester Quays Christmas Market held weekends from Nov. 4 to Dec. 17, 2023.. The market is held on the historic docks and features characters dressed in Victorian attire wandering the city. You can also catch brass music, choirs, street entertainers, a carousel, food, drink and, of course, artisan crafts! For the adults, there’s an ale tavern and a microbrewery.

The market for those who love Halloween

Ignore the warnings of Hansel and Gretel and make your way to the Witches’ House in Giesing, Germany. Enjoy the market from Nov. 30 to Dec. 23 and enjoy other workshops and more until Dec. 31. See acrobatics shows, enjoy live music, witness fantastical creatures, shop crafts, eat food and more.

Belgian Ice Palace and Bruges Christmas Market

For a double dose of holiday magic, check out the Ice Palace and the nearby Christmas market in Bruges, Belgium. The market is open from Nov. 24, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024. Artists worldwide gather to create magnificent works of art inside the ice palace (a large tent) cooled to negative five degrees Celsius. Sculptures are up to two meters high!

Family-friendly fun in the Wild West of Germany

Make your way to Bavaria’s Pullman City for a Western winter wonderland. Santa sings and you can meet him along with other fairy tale characters. There are country Christmas shows. See the giant stuffed animals. Take a romantic Christmas-lit walk, and so much more. This event occurs Friday to Sunday, Nov.10 to Dec.17 and there is a free shuttle bus from several parking areas for ease of travel.

Make It to the Markets and Be Merry!

These unusual Christmas markets are sure to make your holidays merry and memorable. Did we miss one of your favorite out-of-the-ordinary markets? We’d love to hear from you! Send us some pictures and stories from your favorite unique Christmas markets to contentteam@stripes.com for a chance to be featured on our social media platforms and website.