Christmas markets have, in recent years, joined the list of topics people can argue about. For some, they are a tourist attraction that can serve as the basis for a travel route not only across Poland but also throughout Europe. Others see them as yet another way for city authorities to coax us into completely unnecessary spending. This includes dishes served in stalls without running water, priced like meals at Michelin-starred restaurants, or "local" souvenirs made in China.
As a fan of the Christmas atmosphere, however, I overlook the flaws, which I am, of course, aware of, and I look forward to the opening of this event each year. This year, my excitement is even greater because the market in my Gdańsk has been recognized as the best in Europe. You could say that in the world of Christmas markets, we are what the Spaniards are in football.
The event begins on November 22 and ends on December 23, just before Christmas Eve. Its charm is enhanced by the fact that it is located in the historic city center. Especially in the evening, it creates an atmosphere that makes my elf-like heart beat to the rhythm of the Berlin Love Parade. Gdańsk is wonderful on its own, but adorned with festive Christmas lights, it’s like a beautiful woman who has dressed up for an important ball.
You have to give credit to the city authorities for their efforts to make the market more appealing to families with children, who can participate in various activities, as well as singing and dancing contests. The event is also accompanied by numerous additional activities, often with a charitable focus.
Let’s not kid ourselves—the main reason for visiting the Christmas Market is the food stalls. From my perspective, a year without holiday mulled wine is an incomplete year. Those who avoid alcohol need not worry; for years, most stalls have offered non-alcoholic versions of this drink. The price ranges from 18 to 20 PLN per cup. After a few cups, I always find myself calculating how much profit a stall makes from it. The result of these calculations motivates me to open my own stall the following year with slightly lower prices, which would make me the richest elf in Poland. However, the next day’s headache usually makes me forget my plans for financial expansion.
Returning to the culinary aspect, which I consider the most important part of the market: I’ve never been to New York, but I know someone who has, and they told me you can find food from every corner of the world there. In this regard, Gdańsk’s Christmas Market has nothing to be ashamed of. The selection is enormous. Of course, there are the classics, like waffles and pizza. However, I have more appreciation for items that are not common in everyday life. One standout is the stall serving whole roasted pig, where ordering food makes you feel like a medieval knight. If you’re vegan or visiting with friends who don’t eat meat, it’s best to steer clear of this place.
Another highlight that stole my heart is the booth serving seafood rolls and oysters. I also regularly hunt for langos. Unfortunately for me, a positive review by a famous YouTuber has made the lines for them unbearable for an elf, whose patience is shorter than his height.
Of course, during the event, you can also find holiday staples like bigos (hunter’s stew) or pierogi (dumplings). However, I always ask myself whether it’s worth ordering dishes that will undoubtedly taste worse than the ones you remember from home but cost as if they were made of gold.
The Gdańsk Christmas Market is, in my opinion, definitely worth a visit. However, when planning your trip, remember to bring along some festive cheer. It always makes everything better, and you'll be less disappointed if a dish you try doesn’t turn out to your liking.
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