Madrid is a capital that becomes very much alive especially during the Christmas and New Year celebrations but this year is extra special, after all the Covid-19 restrictions are less strict. For 2020 Christmas planned activities had been revised, cancelled or adapted. Christmas markets are generally an iconic tradition during this festive period and this Christmas you’re going to have more choice. Here are some of our favorite Christmas markets in Madrid planned for the season.
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The Christmas Market at Plaza Mayor
The Christmas Market in the Plaza Mayor is the most famous in Madrid, making it one of the most anticipated markets every year before Christmas. In fact, it is the benchmark in terms of figurines to decorate cribs. Therefore, there are mainly stalls where you can buy such figures, toys and hats for children. You will find the typical atmosphere of the Christmas market. Crafts such as Christmas decorations, small accessories for nativity scenes to continue with your collection, and more, are also available.
The Christmas market in the Plaza Mayor is the great classic of the New Year’s Eve parties in Madrid. This year, in order to comply with the sanitary recommendations, the stands of the Christmas market will be arranged differently and attendance will be more controlled and slightly limited. The market welcomes you until December 31, Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Mercado de Motores
This great designer market has become a must-see during the Christmas season in Madrid. Located in the Museo del Ferrocarril, in the Delicias station that was converted into a museum, the artisan stands are installed between the wagons and the locomotives. You will find decorative objects, vintage products, accessories, clothes and even toys. In this weekend market, you can buy unique gifts that cannot be found in the shops. Most of them are handcrafted, with original designs, quality products and a “Made in Spain” label. Live music and food stalls also make it a great place to visit.
This year, given the health restrictions, the Motor Market will offer two separate editions for everyone to enjoy on two weekends in December. Admission is free, but you must book in advance to better control the crowd.
Mercado de Artesanía
The Community of Madrid Mercado de Artesanía will take place this year, on Paseo de Recoletos between Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Colón. It is a great event organized by two important artisan associations in the region. You’ll find gift ideas designed primarily by artisans from the region. A great diversity of crafts is represented like ceramics, costume jewelry, leather goods, engravers, jewelers and goldsmiths, decorative fabrics, hats, toy makers, artistic glassmakers and more.
The Christmas Market at the Corte Inglés Castellana
The parking lot of the Corte Inglés department store gives its space to a Christmas Market. Its many stalls offer decorations, gifts, crafts and typical Christmas sweets. It includes a nursery area installed by the Madrid Nursery Association for the children of the attendees. It also has a temporary tourist information point.
El Corte Inglés has decided to offer this additional location this year so that visitors can do their Christmas shopping outdoors and follow social distancing rules.
The Christmas markets are one of the most popular attractions in Madrid on these dates. You walk around town, browse the stalls, and hopefully buy something interesting. Some of these markets are already classic because they open every year with great success and are part of the festivities. Others, smaller, are new and are a good way to discover different things.
This Christmas enjoy your festivities and shopping while in Madrid. Don’t forget to add on a Historical Segway Tour and get the best sights of the city!
