What will the Advent markets be like in Oslo this year? Program and important information in one place

Would you like to diversify your time before Christmas by visiting a place where nature and architecture are uniquely combined?

Do you like statues, fountains, snow, and seafood?

The Christmas markets in Oslo will enchant you and amaze all your senses.

When and where are they held?

We will tell you everything in the following lines.

Oslo Advent Markets

Oslo’s Christmas markets are renowned as some of the largest and most beloved not just in Norway, but throughout all of Scandinavia. Each year, they draw in countless visitors, both local and from neighboring countries, eager to experience the unique festive charm.

Christmas in Oslo is a truly special experience. The early sunsets and the potential for snow create an enchanting atmosphere that perfectly complements the twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations adorning the city. Here, the magic of the holiday season lingers longer than in southern Europe, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the winter wonderland.

Jul i Vinterland: The Best Oslo Christmas Market

Where and when will it all break out?

Program of the Christmas market in Oslo

“Jul i Vinterland” in Spikersuppa Park and along Karl Johans Street is one of the largest and most famous Christmas markets in Northern Europe. In the central square, located in front of the famous Rådhuset, or Town Hall, you will find several wooden stalls selling snacks, handicrafts, and traditional Christmas gifts such as Norwegian sweaters.

The food and drink menu usually includes traditional warm Christmas porridge, “lompe” (soft flatbread or pancake made from mashed potato), or grilled sausages.

Sweet lovers will admire the Glazed apples.

Drinks include gløgg, cocoa with cream, tea, mulled wine, and beer. Allow more time to visit the Advent markets in Oslo. It will take you a while to browse through the vast array of stalls.

Families with children will appreciate the rich accompanying program, which includes Santa’s residence, gingerbread workshops, or an ice rink. It will be in operation from the beginning of December and it’s free for all visitors.

Other popular attractions include the Christmas carousel and Ferris wheel. A big attraction is a huge slide for children and adults.

See the video below to get familiar with Jul I Vinterland in Norway:

Oslo’s Best Christmas Market - Jul i Vinterland (Christmas in Winterland) 2022 Virtual Tour [4K]

Stortorget’s Christmas Market

Where and when will it all break out?

Program of the Stortovet Christmas Market

Advent and Christmas markets in front of the cathedral are smaller, but you can buy the original gifts and taste excellent Norwegian delicacies there. The market’s opening is a week earlier than the main markets near the town hall.

If the weather does not favor outdoor markets, visitors can move to the nearby ” Julemarked på Youngstorget “, aka the indoor Christmas market at Youngstorget. The market is held in heated traditional tents called lavvu. The tents sell handmade souvenirs, Christmas decorations, and tasty snacks.

How to get to Oslo?

We recommend going to Oslo at least for the weekend, due to the distance and interesting places to visit.

Air and bus transport to Oslo

If you travel from Europe, you can use the bus line – the trip will be longer than by plane, but if you are afraid to fly by plane, this might be a solution.

If you travel from the United States, you will probably go by plane.

Last but not least, you can also take advantage of the offers of Christmas trips to Oslo organized by travel agencies. In addition to Advent markets, they usually also include a visit to the local monuments.

Interesting places in Oslo

Oslo is not only the capital, but also the largest city of Norway. It’s located by one of Norway’s many fjords and a major part of the city is green. The city is not only known as a trade center or a port, but it also has many monuments, i.e.: the Royal Palace, Town Hall, Oslo Opera House, Akershus Fortress, Vogeland Park, and the Holmenkollen ski jump.

So what do you think is worth visiting during the Christmas markets in Oslo?

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace, Slottet in Norwegian, is one of the most famous cultural monuments of the city. It serves not only as a representative residence, the Norwegian royal family still lives in it today. The palace was built in the first half of the 19th century, and in the summer months, some of the interior spaces are also accessible to tourists. Even if there are no official tours during the Advent you can visit the palace.

If you are lucky enough you will get to the Advent concert there.

Town hall

Another significant landmark, in the vicinity where the Advent markets in Oslo are also held, is the town hall, or rådhus. It was built of red bricks in a functionalist style during the 1930s and 1940s. The building, whose dominant features are two towers of unequal height, replaced the original town hall from the 18th century.

The Nobel Prize for Peace is awarded on the Town Hall’s premises, every year in December. There is no entrance fee – you can visit the Town hall every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Just a stone’s throw from the Town Hall, you’ll find the Nobel Peace Center, a must-visit for those seeking inspiration and reflection during the festive season. The Nobel Prize laureates inspired the exhibitions, events, and guided tours.

Oslo Opera House

Arguably the most recognizable cultural landmark in the entire nation, the Oslo Opera House is known just as much for its architecture as what goes on inside.

Designed by world-renowned Norwegian architects Snøhetta, the striking building of white marble has a sloping roof that plunges into the fjord. Depending on your perspective, the angular design resembles a glacier, ski slope, or ship heading out from the port.

Akershus Fortress

A Timeless Sentinel: Rising majestically from the Oslo waterfront, Akershus Fortress has stood watch over the city for nearly 800 years. Its imposing walls and towers whisper tales of medieval battles, royal intrigue, and the unyielding spirit of Norway.

Built in the 13th century as a formidable stronghold, Akershus has witnessed countless transformations. It’s been a royal residence, a military base, even a prison. Today, it seamlessly blends its historic past with its present role as a military site and popular tourist destination.

Akershus Fortress is more than just a collection of ancient stones; it’s a living monument to Norway’s resilience and strength. A visit here is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the heart of Oslo’s history.

Vigeland park

One of the most popular tourist spots in the city there is a large park with more than two hundred sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. The sculptures were made of different materials, such as bronze, granite, or cast iron. The most famous sculptures include the Angry Boy (Sinnataggen), the Monolith (Monolitten), and the Wheel of Life (Livshjulet). The park is freely accessible and open all year round.

Holmenkollen ski jump

Calling all winter sports enthusiasts and history buffs!

Oslo’s Holmenkollen ski jump is a legendary landmark that deserves a spot on your itinerary. But even if you’re not a ski jumper in the making, the panoramic views of the city from this world-class sporting arena are simply breathtaking.

Trust us, it’s an iconic sight that will leave you in awe, whether you’re a sports fan or not!

Oslo’s unique blend of history, culture, and winter wonderland charm will make this Christmas one to remember.

So pack your warmest coat and come experience the magic of a Norwegian Christmas in Oslo!