Christmas Market Magic in Lithuania

Posted by Eglė  |  November 15, 2021

The Christmas market is a relatively new tradition in Lithuania. A few decades ago, Lithuania had no Christmas markets like those in Western European cities. Today, the Christmas market is a special tradition that attracts many residents and foreign guests to the country during the Christmas holidays. If you are looking for a beautiful Christmas holiday destination, Lithuania in December is a special and interesting place filled with events. Let’s explore Christmas fairs and traditions in Lithuania, a great way to get to know the country and cities, immerse yourself in a unique festive bustle with mesmerizing Christmas decorations, unique handmade crafts, and trendsetting Christmas trees.

Vilnius Christmas Market

Why Travel? Vilnius Christmas market, or rather a Christmas town, is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets globally. While smaller and cozier compared to those in Germany or Austria, it exudes true Christmas spirit with wooden stalls in Cathedral Square, the center of Vilnius, next to the Christmas tree. Here, you’ll find sweet Christmas delicacies and local handmade crafts. The market also features local musicians, a firework show, an ice skating rink, a Christmas train, and a Christmas-themed train that runs through medieval Vilnius architecture.

When to Travel? Vilnius Christmas market usually opens from the last Saturday of November to the first Saturday of January.

What to Do? The market is located in main squares like Cathedral, Town Hall, Kudirka, and Lukiskes, beautifully decorated with lights and various Christmas decorations. Don’t miss the Christmas train, available for 5 weeks only!

Kaunas Christmas Market

Why Travel? Kaunas, the temporary capital of Lithuania, holds many surprises within its city walls. If you’re seeking a new artistic experience, Kaunas is for you, especially during the Christmas season. It boasts postmodern architecture, unique museums, fascinating street art, quirky and stunning Christmas decorations, and an innovative Christmas tree specially designed by a local designer.

When to Travel? Kaunas market in Town Hall Square opens its doors from the first weekend of December until the first weekend of January, usually after the Christmas tree lights up.

What to Do? Kaunas offers entertaining and festive activities for visitors of all ages. Enjoy a festive Christmas fair in the heart of the city on weekends and weekdays. Taste various local delicacies, make handicrafts, meet musicians or artists, and find warm and lovely gifts for loved ones, including original amber jewelry, exclusive handmade wool, leather, and fur products, wax candles, embroidered clothing, and ceramic or glass creations. If you’re lucky, you might meet Santa Claus or skate on an ice arena under a blue sky surrounded by white snow.

Christmas Trees

Speaking of Christmas trees, every Lithuanian city is worth your attention during the Christmas season. Cities like Vilnius, Kaunas, Panevėžys, Utena surprise locals and the world with their amazing and unique Christmas tree decorations. Iconic installations vary in every city and town in the country.

There is usually a tall and beautifully decorated Christmas tree with twinkly lights in front of the cathedral or town hall. The most known is the Vilnius Christmas tree, which, for the past two years, has been selected for the best Christmas tree design in Europe in the annual list of “European Best Destination.” The tree is praised for combining old and modern styles.

While the second-largest city, Kaunas, had its Christmas tree nominated by locals as the second most beautiful tree in the country last year. The white handmade decorations of the Christmas tree and surrounding area depict winter views and are reminiscent of a cloud, a cotton ball, or a heart, creating a festive Christmas spirit.

Flights to Lithuania

If you can bear the harsh and cold winter weather, visiting Lithuania’s Christmas markets is a magical experience. Many European countries offer low-cost direct flights. Of course, ticket prices depend on the airline, departure date, and time. Booking online with a travel agency is the easiest, least problematic, and fastest way to secure your festive holidays.

Flights to Lithuania are mostly operated to Vilnius, Kaunas, and Palanga airports.

Get ready for a charming journey because Baltic Tours invites you to experience the Christmas fair spirit in Lithuania. Check out our tours for more!