Joy to the world! Snow’s falling, the air is chillier, children are taking a break from exams, and presents, trees, and decorations are being bought en masse for the holidays. Celebrations are just about to start! However, in recent years, holidays weren’t so jolly, whether due to the COVID-19 pandemic or reoccurring economic issues. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But thankfully, Christmas markets are here to bring back happiness into the holiday season with wooden decorations, rich food, and vibrant festive music, making sure that Santa’s coming to town.

Christmas markets can be traced back to the late Middle Ages in German-speaking parts of Europe. The Christmas market’s roots stretch back to the Dezembermarkt in Vienna (1296), when Duke Albrecht I authorized 14-day fairs in December, despite neither being connected to Christmas nor religious in nature. Inspired by that event, the earliest Christmas market organized was the Dresden Striezelmarkt in Germany, documented in 1434 and established as a one-day event for the local townsfolk to buy all sorts of goods from bakeries, artisans, and butchers. This tradition extended all the way to the modern day, with Christmas markets happening now all around the world.

Christmas markets are a treasure trove of culinary delights and artisans’ crafts and gifts. Shops often feature local artisans showcasing wood carvings, hand-blown glass ornaments, candles, and textiles, with stalls serving traditional Lebkuchen (gingerbread), pretzels, bratwurst, raclette dishes, and the worldwide-famous Glühwein with its unique kick of spices. Whether you are in Germany, France, Belgium, Austria, or even in North America, you can experience the Christmas magic anywhere you are, with each country having its traditions one can wholeheartedly enjoy.

Of course, this isn’t limited to countries abroad: Lebanon has also been following the trend of organizing huge Christmas markets all over the country. This year, many districts and areas are holding their version of the event, from the vibrant streets of Downtown all the way to the small stands in Sed El Baouchrieh

. This year, though, the biggest event of the festivity is organized in Byblos: lights, Christmas tree, stands, food, gifts, and games. Despite all the hardships Lebanon has gone through, from a raging war to recessions, announcing an uncertain future, the Christmas markets of the region still act as this dim light of hope in front of all struggles, promising peace and prosperity.