The month of December traditionally brings a warm atmosphere to the Netherlands, and Christmas markets play a major role in this.
Across the country, squares are transformed into enchanting winter wonderlands with twinkling lights, cozy stalls and the smell of freshly baked treats. This year, there are many special Christmas markets that lure visitors with unique experiences, from underground caves in Limburg to historic streets in the north.
Valkenburg
In the heart of Limburg, Valkenburg transforms into a true Christmas town every year. The Gemeentegrot and Fluweelengrot offer a unique experience: underground Christmas markets, where artisanal products and festive decorations can be found in a special setting. The city attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year, thanks in part to the Christmas Parade, a colourful procession with illuminated floats and dancers. From 15 November to 30 December 2024, visitors can enjoy this special experience.
Maastricht
Not far from Valkenburg lies Maastricht, where the Vrijthof forms the beating heart of the Christmas celebrations during the holidays. With an atmospheric Christmas market, an impressive Ferris wheel and an ice rink, it is a popular destination for young and old. The historic city center, decorated with twinkling lights, invites you to take a romantic walk. Magical Maastricht opens its doors on November 28 and runs until December 30, 2024.
Dordrecht
Dordrecht's Christmas market is known as one of the largest in the Netherlands. The historic center offers space for more than 200 stalls, where visitors can enjoy delicacies, live music and street theater. From December 13 to 15, 2024, this market is a must-visit for lovers of a festive atmosphere combined with historical charm.
For those who love Christmas gifts, winter treats and a magical atmosphere, the Dutch Christmas markets are an ideal destination. The holidays invite you to come together and embrace the warmth of this special time of year.
In Deventer, the 19th century is brought to life during the famous Dickens Festival. The picturesque Bergkwartier is populated by over 950 characters from the books of Charles Dickens. Visitors imagine themselves in a different time, complete with traditional stalls, music and street scenes that seem to come straight out of a Dickens novel. The festival will take place on 14 and 15 December 2024.
Haarlem
Haarlem offers one of the most extensive Christmas markets in the country. More than 300 stalls fill the historic city center, while choirs sing Christmas carols and visitors can follow a route past illuminated monuments. The Haarlem Christmas Market is one of the highlights of the holiday season and will take place on December 7 and 8, 2024.
Bourtange
Bourtange, a picturesque fortress in the north of the Netherlands, transforms into a true winter wonderland at the end of November. The Christmas market in Fortress Bourtange is known as one of the most enchanting in the Netherlands. With atmospheric lighting, almost 100 stalls and a magical setting, the event attracts thousands of visitors every year. This year, the Christmas market will take place on Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December, from 11:00 to 18:00. The Christmas market in Bourtange is easily accessible by both car and public transport. For visitors arriving by car, there are parking facilities just outside the fortress.
other pearls
There is also plenty to do in the north and west of the Netherlands. In Groningen, the Grote Markt offers an atmospheric Christmas market with an ice rink and Ferris wheel, open from 13 to 22 December 2024. In the small town of 's-Gravenzande, more than 75 stalls will be set up, while the Christmas market in Doesburg on 14 December stands out for its unique photo opportunities, such as a gigantic snow globe with a diameter of four metres.
Those who want to venture beyond the country’s borders can indulge themselves in cities such as Düsseldorf, Cologne and Aachen. These German Christmas markets are known for their size and tradition, with atmospheric wooden chalets and culinary specialities. Belgium also offers a charming atmosphere, with Christmas markets in Ghent, Brussels and Antwerp that attract many visitors every year.
Visiting a Christmas market requires some preparation. Check the current opening hours and any entrance fees in advance, especially since these can vary by location. Expect crowds on weekends and plan extra travel time. Public transport is often recommended, as parking can be a challenge during this period.
