I am not quite sure if you are aware of it already, I honestly wasn’t till just now, but in is less than two weeks, it will be Christmas! Which means that the days are a little chilly over here, the streets are decorated with the most beautiful lights and whenever you turn on the radio, it is very likely that you will be exposed (or rather treated) to at least 10 Christmas songs within one hour.
And as a man of my word, today I will share my favourite Christmas markets in Amsterdam with you. ‘Cause, just another reason why Amsterdam has managed to capture my heart is that you do not have to travel far, in order to experience the loveliest (Christmas) markets.
Do note that various of these markets already made the cut last year, but trust me, they simply do not disappoint and are definitely worth the visit!
Ice Village – Museumsquare, till the 26th of December
During December, the beautiful Museumsquare truly turns into a movie worthy setting. Throughout the final month of the year, you can not only go ice-skating, but you can also visit a proper little Christmassy Village. With a great number of tiny wooden houses, that offer delicious warm comfort foods, (handmade) gifts of all kinds, mulled wine and live music, this simply is a lovely way to spend a beautiful December day.
Weihnachtsmarkt 2019 – Van der Helstplein, 14th of December
My country’s eastside neighbours genuinely how Christmas should be done. The famous German “Weihnachtsmarkten” are sincerely taking Christmas Markets to another level. With liters of mulled wine flowing, endless amount of sweets and savoury bites, countless beautifully decorated Christmas trees and just the greatest atmosphere: it comes as no surprise that these markets are extremely popular. But for the second year in a row, Amsterdam has its own “Weihnachtsmarkt” in the adorable Amsterdam neighbourhood called the “Pijp”. During this second edition, you can expect wooden Christmas houses, firebaskets, a square filled with Christmas trees, pretzels and traditional flammkuchen. This is definitely the kind of Christmas market after which you pity that it is only there for one day. Schade!
Albert Christmas Cuyp – Albert Cuypmarket, 20th, 21st, 23d and 24th of December
And from one lovely market in the “Pijp” to another. The daily Albert Cuyp market is by far one of the most popular markets in Amsterdam. During the 4 days before Christmas, this market will be slightly different than usual, as you might not only bump into Santa or have your kid’s face festively painted by an artist, but you will also find many stands to buy the delicious bites or fresh ingredients for during a Christmas dinner, you’ll also find many(!) stands where you can buy gifts for your nearest and dearest. Merry Albert Christmas Cuyp!
Funky Xmas Market – Zuiveringshal West, 15th of December
Ah, the Funky Xmas market. A little less traditional, but a lot of fun if you’d ask me! The Sunday Market, another all-time favourite of mine, is hosting another edition of this great Xmas Market with a lot of new, innovative, funny and original stands. Naturally, you’ll also get the opportunity to enjoy some hot cacao and swing along on their funky live music.
De Amsterdamsche Kerstmarkt 2019 – Westergas, 20th till 23d of December
Whenever I leave my beloved neighbourhood, I just love to visit Westergas, whether I am in for some treasure hunting on a little market or just wanting to stroll around the park. The Westergas is a great place. Recently, I already told you about its new ice-skating rink. But for the first time now, a proper Christmas Market will be hosted on this lovely location. During these four days that the market will be open, you get the chance to shop some presents for under the tree and naturally, drink or eat some local delicacies. They also appear to have a great special program to get the kids in the festive spirits!
Pure Market – Park Frankendael, 22nd of December
The last edition of another one of my favourite markets will also be Christmas themed. The Pure Market in Park Frankendael is the perfect place to do some very last-minute shopping or go for some drinks with friends or family. The Pure Market is known to have a great number of stands, so it’s almost guaranteed that something will pique your eye during the lovely Sunday stroll through the park.
Enjoy folks!
Sincerely,
Mr. J
