By Mandy Applegate
Christmas is the highlight of the year for many – a time of hearing Mariah Carrey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” on repeat, decorating the tree and seeing friends and family. However, celebrating Christmas the same way each year can cause it to lose its magical charm. From festive markets to new cultural experiences, find out why Americans are leaving behind their local traditions to celebrate this iconic holiday in Europe.
The magic of European Christmas markets
While Christmas markets exist in America, they’re not on the same scale as those in Europe. European Christmas markets are renowned for providing the perfect festive atmosphere with mulled wine, live performances, dazzling lights and countless food vendors serving hot food. If there is one market you can’t miss, it’s in Strasburg. This French city is known to be the capital of Christmas, with the tallest decorated tree in Europe and 300 wooden chalet stalls selling gifts and treats.
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The market in Antwerp, Belgium, is another fan favorite. Spread over different locations in the city, there is much to see and eat. After enjoying Belgian waffles at a stall, you can ride the Ferris wheel at the Scheldt River by the Het Steen Castle or stroll through the Magical Winter Forest in front of the Antwerp Cathedral.
Experience over material gifts
While receiving bracelets or clothes can be nice, nothing compares to going on a memorable trip you’ll remember for years to come. According to a Deloitte holiday retail survey, spending on experiences is expected to increase by 16% in 2024. Shoppers are increasingly choosing to gift experiences over tangible items and seeking ways to celebrate the holidays in a more meaningful way. Whether it be ice skating in the heart of Budapest or seeing Norway’s northern lights, Europe offers plenty of stunning winter destinations and unforgettable memories to be made.
More flights and travel options
Traveling to Europe has become easier than ever for Americans. According to Yahoo Finance, United Airlines plans to offer 60 nonstop flights daily from major United States cities to European destinations in November and December. Whether you’re looking to stay for a week or just a few days, the wide range of available flights – mainly to European cities known for their holiday markets – makes it convenient for those seeking a holiday getaway.
There’s also a chance for you to visit multiple destinations as European countries are well connected by affordable rail and airline services. The improved accessibility for international travel, with ease of movement within Europe, encourages more Americans to spend their holidays overseas. With options like budget airlines and high-speed trains, you can hop from the Christmas markets in Vienna to an evening cruise on the Danube in Budapest – all within a few days.
Authentic festive treats
The European Christmas is celebrated with delicious and authentic holiday dishes that attract people from around the world. From the decadent German chocolate cake to savory beef stroganoff, this continent offers much more than the typical chain restaurants found in America.
Travelers are drawn to the opportunity to savor authentic flavors in their places of origin, whether by participating in cooking classes on making French onion soup or joining food tours led by locals. With the convenience of traveling across Europe, you may have the chance to go on a food tour that allows you to taste dishes from various countries during your trip.
Unforgettable winter experiences
If you’re tired of the same old parade and American holiday celebrations, you’re in for a treat with Europe’s plethora of winter activities. You can ski on the Swiss Alps’ beautiful slopes, visit fairytale-like castles in Scotland or party in a warm and welcoming pub in Ireland. Several old towns like Vanalinn in Estonia – designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site – provide a quaint and magical festive atmosphere that feels straight from a Hallmark Christmas movie.
Travelers can also attend church services in stunning cathedrals, often with centuries of history. Stop by Saint-Suplice, the second largest church in Paris, for a Christmas mass to hear the Cavaillé-Coll pipe organ – even if you’re not fluent in French, you can still appreciate the music. Visiting Europe during the holidays allows Americans to immerse themselves in rich traditions and experience how others celebrate this time of the year.
A change of scenery for the holidays
Sometimes, a holiday getaway is just what you need, and Europe is the perfect destination. From the alluring markets to delicious treats and exciting winter activities, it’s no wonder why Americans are flocking to Europe for a magical Christmas experience. As flight availability and travel accessibility no longer stand in the way of your adventure, it’s time to swap material gifts for a ticket to a continent that promises a true winter wonderland.
Mandy Applegate is the creator behind Splash of Taste and five other high-profile food blogs. She also co-founded Food Drink Life Inc., a unique and highly rewarding collaborative blogger project. Her articles appear frequently on major online news sites and she always has her eyes open to spot the next big trend.
