Trondheim Christmas Market: Experience the holiday spirit of Norway in Trondheim

Norway often comes to mind when people think of Christmas – snow-filled towns, twinkling lights, spiced gløgg. Norway’s annual Christmas markets are filled with treats, activities to enjoy, and gifts. This year, Trondheim Christmas Market, one of the largest in the Nordic region, is held from 4-21 December.

Trondheim Christmas Market started in 2003. Originally it was a small, local event over a few days. This year, the market lasts 18 days, from 11am to 7pm, in the heart of Trondheim. It is the biggest event in the city every December, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors from Norway and abroad.

Nanna Berntsen, project leader, says that the market reflects Trondheim’s history while also including its contemporary culture and sustainability. “For many locals, the Christmas market is a place to gather with friends and family during the holiday season,” she says. “For tourists, it is also the perfect place to experience and take part in Norwegian Christmas traditions.”

The market will host over 80 vendors offering handmade items and delicious local food, much of it from Trøndelag, the region around the city. Visitors can also enjoy tasty street food as well as international delicacies and gifts. The market features The Lavvo, a pop-up restaurant considered to be Northern Europe’s biggest. “Guests can warm up on reindeer fur by the bonfire, enjoy a hot meal or locally brewed beer, mulled wine or hot cocoa, and listen to troubadours playing Christmas music,” says Berntsen.

The market also offers around 200 cultural activities, from children’s theatre and concerts to outdoor cinema and art workshops. This year, it will highlight the fact that Trondheim will host the World Ski Championships next year, from 26 February to 9 March. One popular attraction is the Ferris Wheel, which takes visitors 45 meters above ground, offering a stunning view of the city. There will also be traditional horse and carriage rides, led by Norwegian Dølahest horses. “We are focused on our family programme, with different events each day in our Lillelavvo, including storytelling, magic, and even a Santa’s elves’ disco,” says Berntsen. The market is also well-equipped for anyone visiting with accessible needs.

Trondheim is a wonderful city in which to host the Christmas market. “When visiting the market, you can also shop, eat, go to concerts, and the theatre. Everything is close by and easily accessible. In addition, we have the most wonderful winter lights and decorations. We like to call ourselves the best Christmas city in Norway.”

www.julemarkedet-trondheim.no
www.visittrondheim.no
Instagram: @Julemarkedtrondheim