The Best Christmas Markets Outside of Europe

There’s no better way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year than by visiting a Christmas market (or several)! The twinkling lights, carols, warming treats and handmade treasures make it a winter escape to remember. Discover our curated list of festive markets outside of Europe— from cosy city gatherings to dazzling light spectacles — perfect for Christmas market breaks with Hayes & Jarvis.

1. The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition

December 5 – December 21 | Sydney, Australia

While Europe deals with the winter chill, Christmas in Australia unfolds under warm summer skies, complete with beachside barbecues and sunlit celebrations. In Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct, December offers a bright and breezy festive atmosphere. From the 5th to the 21st of December, The Rocks Markets feature more than 120 stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, bespoke décor and delicious treats from local artisans. Lantern-lit streets, harbour views and a lively outdoor setting give the season a distinctly Australian twist: festive, friendly, and delightfully snow-free. Don’t forget to try the gingerbread-flavoured ice cream!

2. The Distillery Winter Village

November 13 – January 4 | Toronto, Canada

During the Christmas season, Toronto’s Distillery District is transformed into a cosy village complete with cobbled streets, atmospheric lighting, and Victorian architecture. Cabins run by local artisans offer charming gifts, and a majestic Christmas tree glows at the heart of the village.

Visitors here can soak up the spirit with live carolling, seasonal performances, and even a meeting with Santa himself. With warm drinks and plenty of quaint charm, the Distillery Winter Village feels like a storybook brought to life…complete with a towering, twinkling Christmas tree.

3. Festival of Lights

December 1 – January 12 | Medellín, Colombia

Each year in Colombia, Medellín celebrates the holidays by turning into an illuminated wonderland. With coloured lights twinkling across the city — approximately eight million bulbs on 600 kilometres of string — and thousands of glowing figures decorating parks and streets, you’ll experience “merry and bright” like never before.

The Medellín River serves as the glowing heart of it all, with lighted displays that float through the city, while dance performances, outdoor concerts, and lively parades bring even more energy to the festivities.

4. Christmas Wonderland

November 29 – January 1 | Singapore

What Singapore lacks in snow it more than makes up for with its vibrant, immersive Christmas atmosphere. Held at Gardens by the Bay (Singapore’s futuristic nature park), Christmas Wonderland blends dazzling light displays, fairground attractions, Michelin-starred food, and nightly entertainment into an all-encompasing holiday experience. Highlights include the 16-meter Christmas Pyramid, a reindeer-themed stable, and “Flying Santa,” who glides above the event space for all to see. With timed entry sessions and ticketed access, this is a festive celebration best enjoyed with a little pre-planning.

5. San Miguel de Allende

Mid-December – January | Mexico

In this small city in central Mexico, Christmas blends baroque architecture, colourful piñatas, and spirited traditions into an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. Streets shimmer with lights and poinsettias, and local markets offer visitors ponche (warm, spiced punch), buñuelos (fried sweet), and handcrafted gifts.

The festivities continue late into the night, but the Posadas are a particular highlight. Held during the nine evenings leading up to Christmas, these processions re-create Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, concluding with a joyful celebration on Christmas Eve.

Whether you’re drawn to the northern or the southern hemisphere, each of these markets delivers something special. From Australia’s sunny magic to Colombia’s illuminated charm, you’ll find joy, warmth, and seasonal sparkle no matter where you roam.

And if you’re dreaming of a winter getaway next year, Hayes & Jarvis can easily create Christmas market trips filled with joy at every stop. Because there’s no better time to travel than when the world is alive with the magic of the season.

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By: Clive Wedderburn 6 min

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