With the holiday season just around the corner, Moscow transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling Christmas markets that offer a magical and festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. From traditional Russian crafts and delicious seasonal treats to joyful music and sparkling lights, these markets have something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Moscow this winter, be sure to check out these 10 must-visit Christmas markets in the Russian capital.
1. Red Square Christmas Market
The Red Square Christmas Market is one of the most famous and popular Christmas markets in Moscow. Located in the heart of the city, this market offers a wide range of traditional Russian handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious food and drinks. The stunning backdrop of St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin makes this market a must-visit during the holiday season.
2. GUM Ice Rink and Christmas Fair
GUM is a historic shopping mall located on Red Square that transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland during the holiday season. The GUM Ice Rink is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in Moscow, and the Christmas Fair offers a wide variety of festive decorations, gifts, and treats. Be sure to sample some Russian traditional sweets like blini (pancakes) and hot mulled wine.
3. Tverskaya Street Christmas Market
Tverskaya Street is one of the main thoroughfares in Moscow, and during the holiday season, it turns into a bustling Christmas market with a wide range of holiday decorations, gifts, and food stalls. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you wander through the market and sample some delicious Russian street food like shashlik (kebabs) and sbiten (a traditional Russian drink made with honey and spices).
4. VDNKh Christmas Market
VDNKh (Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy) is a massive exhibition complex in Moscow that hosts a spectacular Christmas market during the holiday season. This market features a wide range of traditional Russian gifts and souvenirs, as well as an ice skating rink and a variety of food stalls serving up delicious Russian dishes like pelmeni (dumplings) and borscht (beet soup).
5. Flacon Design Factory Christmas Market
For a more unique shopping experience, head to the Flacon Design Factory Christmas Market. This market is known for its hip and trendy vibe, with a wide range of handmade and designer goods, as well as delicious food and drinks. Pick up some one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones while enjoying the festive atmosphere of this creative market.
6. Izmailovsky Market
Izmailovsky Market is a treasure trove of traditional Russian handicrafts, souvenirs, and antiques. During the holiday season, this market transforms into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a wide variety of seasonal treats. Explore the market to find unique gifts like Matryoshka dolls, fur hats, and hand-painted ornaments.
7. Moscow Christmas Light Festival
In addition to traditional Christmas markets, Moscow also hosts a spectacular Christmas Light Festival that features dazzling light displays, interactive installations, and performances by local artists. Take a leisurely stroll through the city to admire the beautifully illuminated buildings and streets, and soak up the festive atmosphere of this magical event.
8. Christmas Village at Sokolniki Park
Sokolniki Park is one of the oldest and largest parks in Moscow, and during the holiday season, it hosts a charming Christmas Village with wooden chalets selling handmade gifts, decorations, and food. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park and take in the festive atmosphere as you shop for unique souvenirs and treats.
9. Moscow Christmas Market at Kuznetsky Most
Kuznetsky Most is a historic street in the center of Moscow that hosts a charming Christmas market during the holiday season. This market features a wide range of festive decorations, gifts, and food stalls, as well as live performances and entertainment. Sample some traditional Russian dishes like pirozhki (filled buns) and vareniki (dumplings) while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this market.
10. New Year’s Fair at Tverskaya Square
Tverskaya Square is one of the main squares in Moscow and hosts a vibrant New Year’s Fair during the holiday season. This fair features a wide variety of festive decorations, gifts, and food stalls, as well as a stage with live performances and entertainment. Join in the countdown to the New Year and celebrate the holidays with the locals at this lively and festive event.
In conclusion, Moscow is a magical destination during the holiday season, with a wide range of Christmas markets that offer something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for traditional Russian handicrafts, delicious seasonal treats, or unique gifts and souvenirs, these 10 must-visit Christmas markets in Moscow are sure to delight and inspire you. Experience the festive spirit of the Russian capital as you wander through these charming markets, sample delicious food and drinks, and soak up the magical atmosphere of the holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Moscow!
