No two eggs are identical and the same can be said about Easter traditions and markets throughout Europe. The spring holiday is greeted with excitement each year as its bright and cheerful colors help chase away the gray of winter. To help welcome the anticipated religious holiday, cities and towns host their annual markets filled with traditional and local crafts.

Germany

In the country where the chocolate bunny was created, markets and traditions spring up around every corner. Easter trees decorated with hand-painted eggs and trinkets can be found in shops and hanging from ceilings in homes. Indulge in the traditional lamb-shaped sweet cake from the local bakery as you visit the open-air markets.

In Miltenburg (Feb. 17-18), the Easter Egg Market takes place near the City Hall in the beautiful Old Town along the banks of the river Main. Famous egg artists from around Germany and neighboring countries can be found at this fascinating market.

The city of Nuremberg welcomes guests to the Main Market Square for its traditional, 16-day “Häferlesmarkt.” Fill your baskets with wooden crafts, pottery and homespun textiles from March 16 - April 2.

Austria

Traditions are celebrated and continued by all ages in Austria as the season approaches. The capital city leads by example by hosting their Easter market March 12 - April 2 in the baroque surroundings of Vienna’s Schloss Schönbrunn. Jazz music flows through the festive air as you enjoy viewing artifacts among handcrafted candles, flower arrangements and palm leaves.

At the Weiz Easter market on April 8, children can participate in a special program featuring fun Easter crafts, face painting, theater, a large, bouncy house and more! This one-day market is an event the whole family will love. Find regional ham, butter, cheese and other ingredients you may need to fill your traditional Easter basket at the Salzburg market. Their highlighted event, the Easter Festival, promises a full musical program that will complement your stay.

Graz brings fun and excitement for the little ones March 23-31. With several market areas, the Hauptplatz is transformed into a colorful wonderland. Come pet your favorite baby Easter animals and don’t leave without making crafts and gifts for your basket!

Czech Republic

As in many European countries, Easter holds a historical and religious significance in the Czech Republic. Czech children particularly look forward to the holiday and forthcoming Easter markets with their vibrantly colored stalls and Easter treats. The boys make rattles, also known as rehtacka, to chase away the evil spirits and girls use watercolors, feathers and bee’s wax to decorate eggs. The tradition flows from homes to the streets as women dress in traditional costume to paint trinkets for the market.

In Prague, local food and drink hold as much significance as shopping. The superb smell of roasting ham over a fire, traditional sugar pastries and a cup of hot wine will make you hesitate as to what to try first. Stages are set up in the Old Town and Wenceslas Square for dancing performances appropriate for all ages. While enjoying the festivities, children can visit the Detska Staromestska Dilnicka to make Easter chicks and paint flower pots.

Enjoy this Easter season at an awesome European Easter Market! Happy Easter!