I can’t remember the last time I went to a Christmas market. And I know I’ve never been to one of those magnificent markets like the ones you see in the movies. So, for today’s blog, and to kick off the holiday season, I decided to take a virtual trip to a market complete with ice skating and a ferris wheel and lights and…well, you get the idea. Let’s kick off the holiday season with a big thanks to all of those who help to put on these beloved events!
How the Christmas market began
Christmas markets began in Vienna, Austria around 1296, when Emperor Albrecht I allowed shopkeepers to set up winter markets. These early markets weren’t about Christmas at all – they were practical places where people could buy food and supplies for the cold winter months.
Over time, these markets evolved. Local families began selling crafts, toys, and treats like roasted chestnuts and gingerbread. The transformation into true “Christmas” markets happened in the 1500s, when Martin Luther shifted gift-giving to Christmas Eve instead of St. Nicholas Day. Dresden’s Striezelmarkt (1434) is considered the first real Christmas market, named after a special cake sold there (now called Stollen). Today, these markets have spread worldwide, bringing light, joy, and festive traditions to the darkest days of winter. Wouldn’t you love to experience the magic of these historic celebrations?
Christmas Markets — Then and Now
What began as simple winter survival markets in the late 1200s has blossomed into something magical over the centuries. Christmas markets transformed from practical shopping spots where villagers stocked up on winter necessities into festive wonderlands filled with handmade crafts, sweet treats, and twinkling lights. As traditions shifted in the 1500s, these markets became more closely tied to Christmas celebrations, with families gathering to enjoy mulled wine, shop for unique gifts, and soak in the holiday atmosphere.
Today’s markets feature ice skating rinks, towering Christmas trees, and Ferris wheels that would amaze those early Viennese shoppers. While the markets have grown grander and spread around the world, they still capture that same spirit of community and warmth during the coldest, darkest days of the year. Isn’t it amazing how some traditions can evolve yet still keep their heart?
If you enjoyed this week’s Friday Morning Post, please leave a comment with your time on the puzzle. I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the post! Thanks for being here!
See all my Friday Morning Posts here. If you missed last week’s post, you can use this link to view Thanksgiving — the day after.
6:15
Nice picture. My time was 12:36.
5:42, the only Christmas market I have been to is Chicago’s Christkindle market.
5:27 I enjoyed the information regarding Christmas markets. Thanks.
10:59
7:04 I prefer warm weather to do outside shopping
My time was 8:40. Another challenging and beautiful puzzle! I have not been to a Christmas market, but would like to go to one. I enjoyed reading about the history of the markets.
12.23 Glad to see some US communities are also holding Night Markets at area fairgrounds throughout the year to experience different cultures [like the Asian Night Markets in SoCal]. At holiday times, these night markets especially add a festive air to the shopping experience! And don’t forget the Holiday Night Lights that imbue communities with good cheer! In Irvine CA, there is the Tanaka Farms Hikari Festival of Lights experience to attend!
My time today was 4:43. I’ve never been to a Christmas market, but I’ve seen some in Hallmark Christmas movies!
6:08 for me this cold morning