What will this year’s Advent markets be like in Warsaw? Program and important information in one place

As the winter chill descends upon Warsaw, the city undergoes a magical transformation.

The air fills with the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine, and twinkling lights illuminate the streets. It’s time for the Warsaw Christmas Markets, a cherished tradition that brings a special kind of festive cheer to the heart of Poland’s capital.

Advent markets Warsaw

Every year in the run-up to Christmas, the Polish capital is transformed into a magical wonderland, boasting beautiful lighting and, of course, many stalls with a variety of goods, including handmade Christmas decorations, warm sweaters, and hats, as well as local gingerbread and other specialties.

Small wooden houses decorated with colorful lights can be found in several places in Warsaw. The traditional Advent fair stretches along the defensive walls of the Old Town.

Warsaw’s main Christmas markets

Opening hours:

From Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
on Fridays and Saturdays – 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.,
on December 25 and 26 – 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Warsaw boasts many Christmas markets. The most famous is the one on the Old Town Square, or Starego Miasta Square, which is nicknamed the Bożonarodzeniowy fair.

Christmas fairs in the districts
Smaller Christmas fairs and bazaars have been planned in many districts of Warsaw.

December 2, 2024 – Christmas Żoli Bazaar. This is a special edition of the Żoliborz garage in Fort Sokolnickiego, at ul. Czarnieckiego 51.
December 2, 2024 – Rembertowska Christmas Tree – a Christmas event in front of the Rembertów District Office (ul. Generała Antoniego Chruściela “Montera”).
December 9 – fair with artistic performances at the Wesoła District Office (ul. 1. Praskiego Pułku 33)
December 16 – Finale of the “Christmas Tree Under the Tree” campaign. In addition to the drawing of a thousand trees, there will be Christmas workshops and a handicraft fair. The event in front of the Bemowo District Office (ul. Powstańców Śląskich 70).
December 16-17, Weekend fair at Wilanów Beach.

While the full program is still being finalized, here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

• Grand Opening: The market kicks off with a spectacular opening ceremony, featuring live music, performances, and the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree, setting the stage for a month of festive cheer.
• St. Nicholas Day: On December 6th, children (and adults!) eagerly await the arrival of St. Nicholas, who brings gifts and spreads holiday joy throughout the market.
• Live Music and Performances: Enjoy carol singing, traditional Polish music, and other live entertainment throughout the market, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Workshops and Demonstrations: Get hands-on with local artisans and learn traditional crafts like pottery making or Christmas ornament painting.
• Ice Skating Rink: Glide across the ice under the twinkling lights, creating unforgettable memories with friends and family.

What to Expect

The Warsaw Christmas Markets offer a delightful experience for all your senses:

• Festive Atmosphere: Stroll through the market, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, and feel the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
• Unique Gifts: Discover treasures crafted by local artisans, from beautiful hand-painted pottery to cozy woolen scarves, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents.
• Culinary Delights: Indulge in traditional Polish cuisine, like pierogi, kielbasa, and bigos (hunter’s stew). Warm up with a cup of grzaniec (mulled wine) or hot chocolate.
• Family-Friendly Fun: The market offers a variety of activities for children, including a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and visits from Santa Claus.

Beyond the Market

While the market is the main attraction, be sure to explore some of Warsaw’s other gems:

• The Old Town: Wander through the beautifully reconstructed Old Town, with its charming streets, historic buildings, and the Royal Castle.
• The Palace of Culture and Science: Admire this iconic landmark, a symbol of Warsaw’s resilience and ambition.
• The Warsaw Uprising Museum: Learn about the heroic struggle of the Polish people during World War II at this moving museum.

You can stroll through the decorated Krakow suburbs, see the city Christmas tree in Castle Square, and then head to the fair that takes place between the city walls, or Piotr Biegański’s Międzymurze, and stretches to the Old Town Square, where you can skate.

Stalls are full of handicrafts, artistic products, handicrafts, culinary delights, and aromatic drinks including the famous mulled wine. Attractive animation and rich Christmas decorations will ensure a pleasant family atmosphere and transport visitors to a magical fairy-tale world.

What else can you do in Warsaw?

Places with Christmas lights

In December, the streets and squares of Warsaw have a special charm. They are decorated with colorful decorations and fairy-tale characters that shine with thousands of lights in the evening. Take a walk along the Royal Route, see the Christmas tree on the Castle Square and the light decorations in the streets of the Old Town.

Visit to the Royal Residence

Visit the Royal Residence in Wilanów after dark and see one of the most beautiful gardens in Poland, which at this time of year glows with thousands of lights. An illuminated tunnel leads to the palace courtyard, from which you can easily reach the royal conservatory.

Rink

The first ice rinks in Warsaw opened in November. In winter, you can find them in the Palace of Culture and Science, in the Old Town Square, and in every quarter. You can rent skates at almost every rink.

Conclusion

The Warsaw Christmas Markets 2024 promises a heartwarming and festive experience, blending the city’s rich history with the magic of the holiday season. Whether you’re seeking unique gifts, delicious food, or simply want to bask in the festive spirit, this market has something for everyone.

So, add Warsaw to your Christmas travel list and discover the charm of Poland’s vibrant capital!