Dec
07

Guide to Moscow’s Christmas markets

December 07, 2016
Katya Kiseleva

Maybe you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift for that special someone, or maybe you’re just wanting to soak up that joyful Christmas spirit, possibly with a side of Russian caviar. No matter what’s got you in the mood for a Christmas market, the selection in Moscow won’t disappoint. From where to browse for handmade toys to where to try traditional foods, here are the best Moscow Christmas markets for celebrating the holiday season.

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Christmas Market on Red Square

One of the best Christmas markets in the city, and a must-see for everybody. There are more than 20 stands where you can try traditional Russian foods, such as crepes with caviar, and baked potatoes with mushrooms and pickles. You can also keep yourself warm by drinking mulled wine! If you need to pick up a few souvenirs, this is a good spot, with traditional items such as Khohloma toys, Orenburg shawls, and Russian gingerbread for purchase. Of course, there are also plenty of Christmas tree decorations to tempt you. If you’ve got kids, be sure to head to the middle of the market, where there’s a carousel and slide to keep them entertained.

New Year’s Fair in TsUM

Visitors will find almost anything at this fair in TsUM, one of the main stores of the city. Christmas trees, toys, decorations, garlands — the store looks like a winter wonderland or Christmas village when the fair is on! You can find all sorts of presents and decorations for the upcoming holidays, but we recommend checking out the vintage musical jewellery boxes and porcelain dolls in beautiful dresses.

Christmas Market at VDNKh

The biggest Christmas market in Moscow! You’ll find a magical fairy tale town in VDNKh park this winter. Meet characters from old Russian cartoons, like the penguins Lolo and Pepe, polar bears Umka and his mom, and of course Grandfather Frost with snowmen. A beautiful carousel in the park is waiting for the little ones to take a ride, and a huge clock counts down the time until the New Year. And of course, you can also shop for all kinds of presents: decorations, toys, shawls, valenki, woolen socks and mittens, scarves, and much more.

artwork using lights in Moscow

Between shopping, be sure to check out the holiday lights throughout the city

Charity Christmas markets

There are various charitable Christmas markets in our city this year, so you can enjoy the holidays and do something good at the same time! One such market is at the business centre СИТИДЕЛ (ulitsa Zemlyanoj val, 9) or ДУКАТЬ ПЛЕЙС III (Gasheka street, 6), happening on December 13. You can buy all sorts of Christmas goods there, but the best part is that all the proceeds go to support different charitable organisations.

Fair at the Tsentralny Dom Khudozhnika

What could be a better place to shop for presents for your loved ones? You will find the most creative and interesting gifts at this fair that features handmade items such as beautiful dolls and unique Christmas toys. And since most of the goods in this market are entirely one-of-a-kind, you can ensure that no one else will have exactly the same present.

Art Weekend at Artplay

The centre of modern design and art in Moscow also offers its very own Christmas market this year. From December 9 to 11, you’ll find all kinds of unique goods from local designers and artists as the Artplay showrooms open their doors to welcome new visitors and offer up presents, decorations, and different Christmas goods.

Moscow Tours | Urban Adventures

The Russian capital of Moscow boasts both historical treasures and extraordinary culture. On our Moscow tours led by locals you’ll see military posts, venture underground, and explore the dazzling highlights of a more than 800-year old city. We’ll even throw in some tasty Russian snacks. Any Moscow tour that combines history, culture, and delicious food is a definitely a winner in our book!