Bratislava’s main Christmas market is held at the city’s Main Square (Hlavné námestie), Hviezdoslav Square (Hviezdoslavovo námestie) and the Franciscan Square (Františkánske námestie). The market features over 100 rustic stalls and booths presenting handicrafts made of clay, wood, glass, leather, beeswax, wicker, etc. At the market, you can buy traditional Christmas decorations, gifts for your nearest and dearest, and cute souvenirs many of which are handmade by local craftsmen.
Food stalls present traditional Slovak dishes and Christmas treats such as lokše (potato pancakes), pagach (bread stuffed with mashed potatoes or cabbage), roasted duck served with sauerkraut, Segedin goulash, bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep milk cheese), strapačky (dumplings with sauerkraut), trdelník (spit cake), and others. Drinks served at the market include borovička (Slovak juniper brandy), slivovica (plum brandy) and traditional Christmas hot drinks such as mulled wine and punch.
Contests and games for children and adults, concerts, folk singing and dancing, special performances for children, and other cultural events make up the entertainment program of the Bratislava Christmas Market. Most of them take place in the main square. Artisans hold live demonstrations and workshops for everyone interested. And if you get tired of the festive bustle, you can escape to one of the city’s numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars.
The Bratislava Christmas Market is relatively young. While some European Christmas markets date back to the Middle Ages, this market was established in its modern form in the early 20th century. However, it has grown to become one of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe due to an impressive array of goods, rich and diverse entertainment program, and affordable prices. Every year, the capital of Slovakia attracts more and more tourists during the Christmas season.
