Back before the glories of two-day delivery, Christmas markets began as a way of survival during the winter, providing communities access to goods that would later become scarce when the chill of the season set in. But, as it’s no longer the Middle Ages, we now have modern amenities that make winter just a bit more wonderful! Yet, even with this newfound ease of living, Christmas markets remain a cultural boon to all of us this holiday season.
This year, the City of Lawrenceville has the honor of hosting Christkindl, an authentic and unique German Christmas Market! Inspired by the Christmas markets of the 1500s, the Christkindl Market debuted as a way of introducing Americans to German culture. This market invites patrons to cozy up with a couple of chimney cones, sip on a hot mulled apple cider, and browse the many stalls slinging handmade ornaments, warm winter garments and novel pieces of home decor that will fit right in with your decked halls and decorated trees. The old-world charm of the Christkindl Market is felt in the air as one walks past inviting wooden stalls decorated elegantly with garland and smiling vendors. The Christkindl Market will be open from November 28 to December 24 on the Lawrenceville Lawn!
Looking for a blend of modernity and history in your Christmas Market? Make your way over to the Historic Norcross Christmas Village and experience a whimsical winter wonder that is perfect for the kids! Open on Saturday, December 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Historic Norcross Business Association is decking the village with vintage vibes and new-age fun! Come get your face painted or grab a photo with Santa before caroling with the masses. Visit the petting zoo and cozy up with Dasher and Dancer, then go for a carriage ride and feel like the big man himself.
When you finish at the Christmas Village, take the short ride down to the Atlanta International Night Market (also in Norcross) at Lillian Webb Park. Held December from 12 to13, the Night Market promotes a multicultural winter celebration chock full of global cuisine, handmade goods and dynamic shows featuring international traditions and performances! Educational and rich in fun, the Atlanta International Night Market aims to celebrate a diverse range of cultures and the spirit of unity this holiday season.
Ready to start the holidays early? Visit the Community Christmas Market in Gainesville at the North Hall Community Center on November 7 and 8! With free admission, over 100 vendors and the enticing scent of food trucks and cinnamon spice, the Community Christmas Market is a quality setting to find locally-produced jewelry, decor, ornaments, essentials and gourmet treats!
If you find yourself wishing for more, take a sleigh ride to the Flowery Branch Winter Market. Kicking off on October 10, the Winter Market will be open every second and fourth Thursday of the month until April, with different offerings on different days, so be sure to keep up to date on their website. A blend of whimsical winter wonder and the homeliness of a farmers market, Flowery Branch promises a wholesome holiday packed with local flavor and live music.
Cherished by all, Christmas Markets serve to pay homage to the communities of the past and preserve precious pieces of international cultures that serve to bring us together during this memorable time of year. So, gather all your friends and family members, don your coziest (and ugliest) holiday sweaters and delve into the timeless realm of open-air Christmas Markets!
