Almost everyone knows by now that Christmas markets are expensive. Like most things in the festive season, external costs and demand have pushed prices up to new heights, and people are losing interest.
Everything about Christmas markets, like Christmas itself, has become too commercialised. The early start to the Christmas season leaves people tired of it by mid December.
These markets are also becoming too large and too similar. They are no longer cosy, intimate marketplaces for wooden crafts to give to loved ones, they’re about £12 pints and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. Like in ASDA’s Christmas ad featuring the Grinch and his thoughts on expensive Christmas market gifts.
High prices drive smaller unique artisans out because of the high stall fees, so the same things are sold at every market. If you go to one, you’ve gone to them all. The big markets also take foot traffic away from smaller independent businesses that rely on Christmas revnue to stay in business for the rest of the year.
Why do we love Christmas Markets?
However, Christmas markets still sell crafts that are memorable and can become sentimental gifts. You can find really cool stuff there, I once bought a wreath made of dried fruit that smells like Christmas for my Dad.
People still go to the markets for some Christmas spirit and whimsy. They are a nice way to get into the Christmas spirit and they make for a nice day out with family or friends. I still enjoy going as well, but mostly to look around and get one gift for someone.
I went to Christmas markets in Vienna with my Gran seven years ago and we loved exploring the stalls selling rose shaped chocolate, buildable wooden figurines and tree decorations. I remember having a sip of my Gran’s gluwein from a winter boot shaped mug.
However, Christmas markets in the UK are losing that charm. Last year I went with my partner and we went on the Ferris Wheel and bought stroopwafel. It was a memorable date and they later bought me an elephant shaped candle holder which I still treasure today. Amidst the same, expensive goods, there are a handful of smaller unique stalls with gifts worth buying.
Christmas markets have their problems and their benefits. With the joy and memories they can bring, I still believe they are worth going to. Just as I believe in the magic of Christmas in this commercialised world.
Feature Image Credit: Isla Barker
Third year journalism student. 2025/2026 Lifestyle and Comment Editor at Brig. Published in The Yucatán Times, Mi Campeche and The Mourning Paper. Host of From the 40s with Air3Radio.
