The holiday season is upon us, and one of the most delightful ways to embrace the festive spirit is by visiting holiday markets. These markets offer a magical blend of shopping, food, entertainment, and holiday cheer. From handmade crafts to gourmet treats, holiday markets have something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best holiday markets in the US and Canada that you should consider visiting this season.

United States

1. Christkindlmarket, Chicago, Illinois

Inspired by the traditional German Christmas markets, Christkindlmarket in Chicago is one of the most popular holiday markets in the US. Located in Daley Plaza, this market features vendors selling handmade ornaments, toys, and holiday gifts. Don’t miss the delicious German food, including bratwurst, pretzels, and mulled wine.

2. Union Square Holiday Market, New York City, New York

New York City’s Union Square Holiday Market is a must-visit for anyone in the area during the holiday season. With over 150 vendors, the market offers a wide range of unique gifts, artisanal food, and festive beverages. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and beautiful decorations make it a perfect holiday destination.

3. Enchant Christmas, Arlington, Texas

Enchant Christmas is more than just a holiday market; it’s an entire holiday experience. Held at Globe Life Park, this event features a stunning light maze, ice skating, live entertainment, and a variety of holiday vendors. It’s a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy a festive day out.

4. Downtown Holiday Market, Washington, D.C.

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Downtown Holiday Market offers a cozy and festive shopping experience. The market features over 70 exhibitors, including local artisans, crafters, and food vendors. Live music and performances add to the festive atmosphere.

Canada

1. Toronto Christmas Market, Toronto, Ontario

The Toronto Christmas Market, held in the Distillery Historic District, is one of the most beloved holiday markets in Canada. With its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings, the market offers a picturesque setting for holiday shopping. Enjoy festive foods, warm beverages, and a variety of holiday-themed entertainment.

2. Vancouver Christmas Market, Vancouver, British Columbia

The Vancouver Christmas Market brings a touch of European charm to the West Coast. Held at Jack Poole Plaza, the market features more than 80 huts offering unique gifts, gourmet treats, and festive drinks. The market also boasts a carousel, live entertainment, and a beautiful Christmas tree.

3. Laval Christmas Market, Laval, Quebec

The Laval Christmas Market is a hidden gem located just outside Montreal. The market features a cozy, village-like atmosphere with wooden chalets offering handmade gifts, local products, and delicious food. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience the magic of the holiday season in a charming setting.

4. Christkindl Market, Kitchener, Ontario

Kitchener’s Christkindl Market is modeled after traditional German Christmas markets and offers a truly authentic experience. The market features over 90 vendors selling crafts, gifts, and delicious German food. Enjoy live performances, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a variety of festive activities.

Tips for Visiting Holiday Markets

• Dress Warmly: Many holiday markets are held outdoors, so be sure to bundle up to stay warm.
• Plan Ahead: Check the market’s website for opening hours, special events, and vendor lists.
• Bring Cash: While most vendors accept cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
• Enjoy the Experience: Take your time to explore the market, sample the food, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Visiting holiday markets is a wonderful way to celebrate the season, support local artisans, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re in the US or Canada, these markets offer a magical holiday experience that you won’t want to miss.

Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Beyond Boundaries and Into Meaningful Experiences

If 2022 marked the return to travel, 2023 propelled us further than ever before, reaching skies, rails, roads, and seas, embracing Arctic adventures, luxury yacht cruises, and even venturing into space as tourists.

As we approach 2024, travelers are reshaping their priorities, placing emphasis on meaningful experiences, quality time with loved ones, and wellness moments that extend beyond the confines of a hotel room.

Coolcationing: Chasing Chill Vibes

What’s the Trend? Summer holidays shift from chasing the sun to seeking cooler temperatures. “Coolcations” in temperate destinations offer a retreat from scorching heat and crowded tourist spots.

Astro Tourism: Stargazing Escapes

What’s the Trend? Astronomy, an ancient field of study, takes center stage in the modern world. Astro tourism involves traveling to remote lands free from pollution, crowds, and traffic, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the celestial wonders above—gazing at stars, planets, and constellations.

Why Will It Matter in 2024? Wellness-centric accommodations are carving out spaces for celestial contemplation. Guests can watch comets, identify constellations, and lose themselves in the glittering expanse above.

Home Swapping: Living Locally, Anywhere

What’s the Trend? Travelers, opting for longer stays and spurred by remote work opportunities, embrace home swapping—a cost-effective way to reside in a foreign locale while offering their homes in exchange.

Why Will It Matter in 2024? As travel costs surge, home swapping provides an affordable alternative to pricey accommodations, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange.

Eco Diving: Sustainability Below the Surface

What’s the Trend? Divers select destinations based on the sustainability of scuba centers, aiming for a positive impact on the ocean environment.

Why Will It Matter in 2024? The demand for sustainable diving options is rising. The Reef-World Foundation’s survey in 2022 revealed that 95% of divers sought sustainable operators, a trend set to grow.

Train Stations as Culinary Hubs: A Journey for the Palate

What’s the Trend? Train stations, once transient spaces, are evolving into vibrant destinations. Renovations introduce bespoke food and drink options, transforming these historic sites into culinary hubs.

These trends in 2024 represent a shift towards immersive, sustainable, and personally enriching travel experiences. Whether gazing at the stars, diving sustainably, swapping homes, indulging in culinary delights at train stations, or opting for cooler climates, travelers are crafting journeys that align with their values and desires for deeper connections with the world.

As the enchanting tunes of carols fill the air and festive lights twinkle, it’s that magical time of the year again. Christmas, a season of joy, warmth, and delightful gatherings, invites us to embrace the spirit of celebration with a touch of lifestyle elegance. Here’s your guide to infusing this Christmas with a dash of sophistication and a sprinkle of joy:

Deck the Halls with Style: Elevate your holiday décor by incorporating a theme that resonates with your personal style. Whether it’s a classic red-and-green palette or a chic winter wonderland, let your decorations tell a story of timeless elegance.

The Art of Gift-Giving: Delight your loved ones with thoughtfully curated gifts that reflect their passions. Consider unique and personalized presents that add a touch of luxury, turning the act of gift-giving into an art form.

A Culinary Symphony: Transform your Christmas feast into a culinary masterpiece. Experiment with gourmet recipes, infusing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Elevate your dining experience with fine tableware and tasteful presentation.

The Perfect Holiday Attire: Dress for the occasion with a touch of sophistication. Whether it’s a classic Christmas sweater paired with tailored pants or an elegant cocktail dress, let your outfit reflect the festive cheer with a hint of personal flair.

Cozy Moments by the Fireplace: Create a warm and inviting ambiance with a crackling fireplace. Arrange plush blankets and comfortable cushions for cozy moments of togetherness. Add scented candles or essential oils for an extra touch of relaxation.

Joyful Entertainment: Craft a curated playlist of holiday classics or plan a cozy movie night featuring timeless Christmas films. Organize engaging activities like ornament decorating or a festive game night to keep spirits high.

Cherished Traditions: Embrace and enhance your family’s cherished traditions. Whether it’s baking cookies, singing carols, or opening presents by the tree, let these rituals become the heartwarming thread that weaves your Christmas memories together.

Reflecting Gratitude: Amidst the festivities, take a moment to reflect on the blessings of the year. Create a gratitude jar where family and friends can jot down moments of gratitude, fostering a sense of appreciation and mindfulness.

Sparkling Toasts: Raise a glass of sparkling champagne or your favorite festive drink to toast to the joy of the season. Consider creating signature holiday cocktails to add a touch of glamour to your celebrations.

Capturing the Magic: Document the magic of the season through photographs. Create a Christmas scrapbook or digital album to preserve the memories of this festive time, allowing you to revisit these special moments in the years to come.

This Christmas, let your celebrations resonate with the elegance of a well-lived lifestyle. From sophisticated decorations to heartfelt traditions, infuse every moment with joy, creating a tapestry of memories that will be cherished for years. Merry Christmas and may your days be filled with love, laughter, and the magic of the season!

When winter blankets the Northern Hemisphere in snow, Australia welcomes the festive season under the warm embrace of summer. Let’s embark on a sun-soaked journey to explore how Australians celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year.

Christmas in the Sun: Picnics and Beach BBQs

As the rest of the world dreams of a white Christmas, Australians revel in the warmth of the summer sun. Beaches become the backdrop for festive celebrations, with families and friends gathering for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor festivities. It’s not uncommon to spot Santa Claus in boardshorts delivering gifts along the coastline.

A Feast Fit for Summer: Seafood Extravaganza

While many may envision a traditional roast dinner, Australians opt for a Christmas feast tailored to the summer climate. Seafood takes center stage, with prawns, lobsters, and oysters making frequent appearances on dinner tables. Cold salads and refreshing tropical fruits complement the meal.

Carols by Candlelight: A Musical Tradition

In the lead-up to Christmas, communities come together for “Carols by Candlelight” events. These outdoor concerts feature local artists and choirs performing classic Christmas carols. Families pack picnic baskets, unfold their chairs, and bask in the melodious festivities under the starlit Australian sky.

Boxing Day Traditions: Cricket and Sales Galore

The day after Christmas, known as Boxing Day, is marked by sporting events, especially the iconic Boxing Day Test cricket match. Bargain hunters also hit the stores as retailers unleash post-Christmas sales. It’s a day to unwind, enjoy sports, and snag some fantastic deals.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Harbor Spectacle

As the year draws to a close, Sydney steals the spotlight with its world-famous New Year’s Eve fireworks display over the Sydney Harbour. The iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge become canvases for a dazzling show that attracts locals and visitors alike. Many Australians also celebrate in their own communities with fireworks, parties, and outdoor events.

Outdoor Festivities: Backyard BBQs and Pool Parties

With summer in full swing, New Year’s Eve often involves outdoor gatherings. Backyard barbecues, pool parties, and alfresco dinners are popular ways to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new. Australians embrace the warm weather and the promise of a fresh start.

Resolutions with a Twist: Healthy and Fun Goals

Australians are known for their love of the outdoors and a healthy lifestyle. New Year’s resolutions often revolve around fitness, well-being, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Whether it’s taking up a new water sport, hiking, or simply spending more time outdoors, resolutions in Australia tend to align with the country’s love for an active lifestyle.

A Sunny Start to the New Year

Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in Australia embody the laid-back, outdoor spirit of the country. With sun-kissed festivities, seafood feasts, and iconic fireworks displays, Australians welcome the holiday season uniquely. As the Southern Hemisphere enjoys summer’s embrace, these traditions create a vibrant tapestry of joy, warmth, and celebration Down Under.

As the crisp autumn air settles in and Thanksgiving approaches, the time has come to infuse your home with the spirit of the season. Each year brings new trends in home decor, and this Thanksgiving is no exception. Let’s embark on a journey through the current color palettes and design trends that homeowners are embracing to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for the holiday.

Festive Entrance

Your front porch sets the tone for the Thanksgiving gathering, as it’s the first impression your guests will receive. Elevate the curb appeal with seasonal wreaths, a thoughtfully arranged pumpkin display, or the warm glow of lanterns. A festive entrance extends a warm welcome and prepares guests for the cozy ambiance awaiting inside.

Simple Tablescapes

For those steering away from elaborate centerpieces, the trend leans towards minimalist and nature-inspired table arrangements. Opting for neutral table linens, incorporating wooden chargers, and adorning the table with simple yet elegant candle holders can create a clean and understated look. This approach not only exudes sophistication but also allows the focus to remain on the warmth of shared moments and delectable dishes.

Warm Colors

The cornerstone of home decor lies in the choice of color schemes, and this year, warm and earthy tones are stealing the spotlight. Imagine the deep hues of oranges, the richness of golden yellows, the warmth of browns, and the vibrancy of reds. These colors not only echo the palette of nature in autumn but also radiate warmth, transforming your home into a cozy haven. Infusing these tones into your table settings, drapes, cushions, and other decorative elements instantly ushers in the essence of Thanksgiving.

Natural Decor Elements

In the realm of decor, a prominent trend this year is the embrace of natural elements. Homeowners are opting for rustic and organic pieces that seamlessly bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Picture dried flowers arranged in vases, artfully placed twigs, pinecones adorning mantels, and even incorporating fruits and vegetables as charming centerpieces. These natural elements not only add elegance but also evoke a profound sense of abundance and gratitude — quintessential emotions for the Thanksgiving celebration.

Meaningful DIY Touches

A trend that has gained momentum in recent years is the infusion of DIY decorations into Thanksgiving home decor. Handcrafted pieces lend a personal touch, making your home more inviting and intimate. Whether it’s crafting your wreaths and garlands or engaging in the communal activity of pumpkin painting, DIY decorations offer an opportunity to bond with family and friends while also adding a unique flair to your space.

This year’s Thanksgiving home decor trends revolve around the core themes of warmth, nature, simplicity, and personal touches. By incorporating earthy colors, natural elements, DIY decorations, minimalist table settings, cozy lighting, and festive front porch adornments, your home will radiate an inviting feel, fostering an atmosphere of gratitude and togetherness. Embrace the season, and let your home tell a story of Thanksgiving.

We had our Fool’s Day already, what other dates not to miss?

This year April is mostly about religious celebrations (but not only). Let’s look at what we can do in the next few weeks.

Passover

It is the central Jewish holiday in memory of the Exodus from Egypt, one of the three pilgrimage holidays. It starts in the evening from the fourteenth to the fifteenth of Nisan (days in the Jewish calendar start from the evening of the previous day), is celebrated for 7 days in Israel and 8 outside of Israel. It is also revered by Karaites, Samaritans and partially Messianic Jews.

The Torah forbids Jews during the holiday to eat bread and any other products containing grains that have been leavened , because the swelling of leavened dough is associated with manifestations of an evil inclination: pride and laziness. Also, the Torah commands to eat matzah (unleavened bread) these days, which reminds of the sudden revelation of the Divine Presence, which abolished the evil inclination and created the possibility for the Jews to move from obedience to the will of the Pharaoh to obedience to the will of the Creator.

What to do?

Would you like to host a Seder and read haggadahs? Watch this warm video:

Easter

Easter Friday – April 15

Good Friday (Greek Μεγάλη Παρασκευή/Great Friday (lat. Dies Passionis Domini) is the Friday of Holy Week, which is dedicated to the remembrance of the condemnation of death, suffering on the cross and the death of Jesus Christ, as well as His removal from the cross bodies and burials.

Easter Sunday – April 17

Easter is the most important holiday in Christianity. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus, which the New Testament places two days after the Passion, that is to say the “third day”. The solemnity, preceded by Holy Week, the last part of Lent, begins the night before Easter Sunday, with the Easter Vigil.

Easter Monday – April 18

The Easter egg in the Christian tradition denotes the Holy Sepulcher: the egg, although it looks dead on the outside, contains a new life inside that will come out of it, and therefore the egg serves as “a symbol of the tomb and the emergence of life in its very bowels”. There is a custom on Easter morning to hide Easter eggs. When the children wake up, they immediately rush to search the whole house. In Germany the Easter Bunny has been a symbol of

What to do?

Here are some brilliant ideas to adult your Easter festival (Easter hunt and Easter tap):

Earth Day

Earth Day is the name used to refer to various events held in the spring to encourage people to be more aware of the fragile and vulnerable environment on planet Earth.

The first “one-time” action on this day took place in 1970 in the United States. Its success inspired the organizers, and since then the celebration has become a regular one. In 1971, due to the success of the first Day, Senator Nelson proclaimed “Earth Week” (during the 3rd week of April) as an annual event that became extremely popular among the US population.

What to do?

If you are a business (or a group of adults), use these ideas to reward eco-friendly green behavior:

Roses are red, violets are blue,
Honey is sweet, and so are you.

Valentine’s Day is a very popular holiday worldwide. This is the day when you can hear declarations of love, receive and give cute gifts or go on a romantic trip. This is how Valentine’s Day is usually celebrated, but in other countries there are different traditions of celebrating February 14th. Not all of them are similar to ours, so you will be interested to know what people from other countries do on this day.

Bulgaria

Here, the Valentine’s Day coincides with another event – the Day of Vineyards. So in Bulgaria, according to tradition, people drink wine. By the way one of the symbols of Bulgaria is a rose (cause there are plenty). If you are looking for an original Valentine’s gift, check out Lovepop shop selling pop-up cards and paper crafts:

Belarus

In Belarus, on Valentine’s Day, people congratulate not only loved ones, but also friends and parents. And this holiday is considered to be the day of kisses.

Egypt

Valentine’s Day in Egypt has gained popularity solely due to the fact that February is the height of the holiday season in this country. The holiday is celebrated mainly by foreign tourists. But in fairness, it must be said that the Egyptian resorts are on a grand scale: hotels and tourist complexes offer an unforgettable romantic meeting of Valentine’s Day on the sea coast in luxurious restaurants and nightclubs.

Iceland

In Iceland, Valentine’s Day coincides with the pagan fire festival. Young people light bonfires, jump over them, and then the girls hang embers from the extinguished flame on the guys’ necks. 

Japan

The Japanese, in turn, on Valentine’s Day hold a competition for the loudest declaration of love. On a specially built platform, men and women try to shout their feelings as loudly as possible. Gifts are given to the loudest. It is interesting that gifts are received mainly by men. Girls and women of all ages buy chocolates and sweets and give them to the opposite sex. However, exactly a month later, on March 14, men give white chocolate to their chosen ones. This day is called “White Day”, and this holiday is only for women.

What could be a decent present for a man? How about a musical one? Check out Vnyl shop for a magical physical music subscription:

Poland

Most of all, according to the Poles, it was they who were lucky. After all, it is in Poland, according to legend, that the relics of this saint are buried. Therefore, on February 14, lovers of this country try to visit the Poznan metropolis to look at the remains and pray to its miraculous icon. All this should help in achieving love well-being.

Wales

In Wales, the tradition of exchanging wooden spoons is still preserved. They are carved from wood, painted with hearts, keys and locks. Such a gift can mean the following: “You have found the way to my heart.”

Visit ManCrates for original gifts for her (and him)

Finland

In Finland, Valentine’s Day coincides with Friends Day. The traditions of celebrating Valentine’s Day came here from the USA. According to sociologists, the merger of the two holidays speaks of the Finns’ desire for equality between men and women. On a romantic holiday, Finns give each other hearts-valentines.

All nations have somewhat different customs, but in general they are similar: sweets, flowers, heart-shaped cards. In a word, give your loved ones a holiday, talk about your feelings, and not only on February 14, but every day. This is exactly what Saint Valentine taught, who accepted death in the name of love.

This year was scary, wasn’t it? Maybe just a bit less scary than 2020.

We don’t know how serious you are about celebrating Halloween. However, we want to recommend thinking about your potential costume well before the event.

And now it is the proper time to decide if you want to get a decent (and spooky) costume from one of many shops for about 100$ (which is quite a reasonable price).

For instance, Urban Outfitters suggest many interesting pieces and accessories for the upcoming holiday. By the way, even if you decide saving up some cash on a costume, why not buy a set of tarot cards to set a nice ghosty atmosphere for yourself and your guests?

So, our first easy DIY idea suggestion for halloween is

La Catrina / Sugar Skull Girl

In case you don’t want to waste money on meaningless costumes, but you still do want to buy something special, how about buying something you can actually wear on a regular non-Halloween day? For those of you like oriental and summer motifs, buying a floral printed dress or shirt might be a nice option. You can easily turn your new piece into a Sugar Skull Girl/Boy costume by applying some dramatic make-up on your face:

For instance, you can buy some dramatic print dresses on Showpo, the Australian leading global fashion company focused on the next generation of young women:

And here on Hallenstein Brothers you can buy a decent floral male shirt. They ship internationally:

One thing you will need though is make-up. However, if you do not have this kind of white face and body paint, don’t worry! It is easy to get it in any big supermarket. Moreover, you can create a great Day of the Dead face using just black eye shadows and a pencil! Here is a video to watch (you can practically do the same with shadows and a pencil and still have a decent spooky effect!):

Ghost

This is an easy one. You, your child or even your pet can easily transform into a scary monster by throwing an old white sheet on. Do you have one? Just cut out the holes for eyes and your costume is done! Is that original? No. But it will save you some time and money

Here is how your dog would look like. But maybe only for a quick photoshoot. Does it worth it though?

Witch

Oh, yeah, another easy and quick transformation, especially if you have a broom. Anyways, one thing that you will need is a hat. And it is quite possible to make a hat using paper and black paint. Although it is much easier to buy one for under 10$

Wear something dark and use black eye liner or shadows to create a scary look.

Penniwise

And another one great for boys. It doesn’t have to be a proper costume. Whatever you wear will do. However you will need a proper clown make-up kit. Just tousle your hair (or your child’s hair) and you are good to go!