These 11 Christmas Markets Around the World Are More Than Merry and Bright

For five weeks, 240 shops take over the heart of Brussels where guests can enjoy treats from around the world. Indulge in Japanese goodies and Belgian waffles, and sip on artisan hot wine in between ice skating, the Ferris wheel, and merry-go-round.

Toronto's Christmas Market takes place at the Distillery Historic District and is ranked among the top 10 Christmas markets in the world. In addition to the 80-plus shops and boutiques within the area already, over 30 vendors fill the streets selling seasonal goods. There's also several beer gardens where you can drink and enjoy the magical lights.

Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, Chicago's open-air festival transforms the center of its downtown to a holiday village. Visitors can expect gifts and ornaments, food, and beer and wine in addition to performances.

Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria. Over 120 vendors offering hand-crafted goods, toys, jewelry, and traditional fare complete this festival.

With stunning lights in Prague's Wenceslas Square, it's hard not to feel the Christmas spirit at this market. Wood-carved toys, Christmas decorations, and traditional Czech food including blood sausages and barbecued pork can be found.

Stockholm's Old Town Christmas Market combines modern holiday markets and its medieval roots. Visitors will find Swedish sweets and foods like smoked reindeer, and Swedish crafts among the 40 stalls.

One of the oldest and biggest Christmas markets in Europe boasts over 300 stands. Strasbourg isn't called the Christmas capital for nothing. This Winter wonderland includes crafts, holiday decorations, locally baked goods, beer, wine, and so much more.

Dresden's Christmas market has maintained its traditional elements since 1434 for the most part. Folk art and custom delicacies and products are spread throughout the festival along with twinkling lights.

More than half a million lights illuminate the Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. Eight different gardens, a bamboo forest, an aquarium, and all other attractions are decorated for the holiday season. Sixty stalls of foods, sweets, Christmas decorations, and products can be enjoyed in addition to light shows and fireworks.

Advent candles, ornaments, and what looks like endless lights make this Christmas market in Vienna unforgettable. A diverse range of products and goodies are offered throughout the 150 stands. After ice skating, visitors can also head to the gorgeous City Hall for additional events and activities.

Winter Village at Bryant Park is the only place in New York that offers free ice skating admission. Shoppers can tour the "jewel box" kiosks for local foods, artisanal products, clothing, and more.