Tallinn Christmas Market

Christmas market in Tallinn

== Tallinn Christmas Market ==

The Tallinn Christmas Market is an annual event held in Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia. The market is traditionally located in the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) in the heart of the city's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

The origins of the Tallinn Christmas Market date back to 1441, when the Brotherhood of the Blackheads is said to have erected the first Christmas tree in the Town Hall Square. This tradition has evolved over the centuries, becoming a significant cultural and tourist attraction in modern times.

Features

The market typically opens in late November and runs until early January. It features a variety of stalls selling traditional Estonian crafts, foods, and beverages. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies such as black pudding, sauerkraut, and gingerbread. Hot drinks like mulled wine (glögi) are also popular.

The centerpiece of the market is the towering Christmas tree, which is adorned with lights and decorations. The tree is surrounded by numerous wooden huts where vendors sell their goods. The market also includes a stage for live performances, including choirs, dance troupes, and other entertainers.

Attractions

In addition to shopping and dining, the Tallinn Christmas Market offers various attractions for visitors of all ages. These include:

• A carousel for children
• Visits from Santa Claus
• Ice sculptures and other festive decorations
• Traditional Estonian folk music and dance performances

Significance

The Tallinn Christmas Market is not only a major tourist attraction but also an important cultural event for the local community. It provides an opportunity for artisans and small businesses to showcase their products and for visitors to experience Estonian traditions and hospitality.

See Also

• Christmas market
• Estonian cuisine
• Culture of Estonia
• Tourism in Estonia