Although you can simply wander the city to discover your own favourite displays, I’ve put together a little walking tour of all the best places to check out in Old Montreal. This self-guided walking tour will take you past some of the most important historical buildings in Old Montreal. So we’ve added in some interesting information about this bygone part of the city. Come with us now on our Christmas Lights Trail of Old Montreal!

McGill Street

At the corner of Victoria Square is where McGill Streets begins and heads down into the Old Town of Montreal. McGill Street is famously known as “the link between the strategic sectors of the Old Port, Old Montreal, and the Quartier international.” It is one of the most historical and, therefore, illustrious streets in Montreal. You can find such important buildings as the Canadian National Railway Company, Canadian Coast Guard, Canada Border Services Agency and a slew of popular restaurants all along this stretch of road.

During the winter season, the streets and individual buildings are all lit up for the holidays. The street is lined with these fantastic illuminated trees with a giant ball of lights bursting from the top! Enormous wreaths hang inside windows. And you can almost always see some of the most fanciful garlands made from real fir trees suspended from the doorways. The intoxicating smell drifts into your nose as you explore.

Maison Pepin

Continue along McGill Street until you reach Saint-Paul Street West. Turn left along the street until you read the famous Maison Pepin. During the wintertime, the alleyway entrance into Maison Pepin’s is transformed into their “Marché de Noël.” The old brick alley looks like something out of Harry Potter! As if you stepped into Diagon Alley when it’s all decorated for Christmas. Wreaths and Christmas tree hangs along the walls and when freshly fallen snow graces you with its presence the entire place is like a painting. Every year the team that decorated the alley brings a new element of wonder and this year their use of dried flowers is absolutely enchanting. And the entire scene is lit with a series of lights above casting down an ethereal glow on the alley.

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Miracle on Place d’Youville

Continue shortly down Saint-Paul Street West and take a short detour towards Rue Saint Pierre to the corner of Place d’Youville. Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the top, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t feel alone in here for a second. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Place Royal

Continue along old Place d’Youville to Place Royal. Place Royale has always been an important meeting place for the people of Montreal. In the early 19th century, this was where you could have found the old marketplace. Today, the square is dominated by the Old Customs House. This is an archaeological site, which is a part of the Pointe-à-Callière museum. At Christmas time, the square is filled with a series of real Christmas trees. A large illuminated tree is positioned in the centre, with a life-sized sleigh nearby for fantastic photo ops!

Rue Saint Paul

Walking up Place Royal Street towards Saint Paul street, you can continue along this long road. Saint-Laurent Boulevard divides the street where Saint Paul Street becomes Rue Saint Paul. This is because Saint-Laurent Boulevard was once the dividing line between the English part of town and the French quarter. Saint-Paul is Montreal’s oldest street and for many years served as its main thoroughfare. It was established in 1672 and named after Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, founder of Montreal. His residence was located on this street and built-in 1650. Rue Saint-Paul follows the path of the old fort which once bordered the area.

During Christmas, Saint-Paul street is perhaps the most enchanting. Massive Christmas light installations are put up on either side of the street. Creating almost a halo of light above the road. The stores on either side of the street are filled to bursting with Christmas spirit. It seems like every boutique has its own unique approach to Christmas decor and peeking your head inside is a wonderful way to warm up.

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Rue Saint Vincent / Rue Saint Anne

As we continue towards Place Jacques-Cartier, make a quick detour up Rue Saint Vincent. The street was originally built on the land owned by Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil. Jean-Vincent was a businessman and wealthy fur trader. His uncle, the Sulpician Gabriel Souart, was the first parish priest of Montreal. The street gets its name from the patron saint of Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil.

Just a few feet along Rue Saint Vincent is the incredible alleyway Rue Saint Anne. This hidden passageway is framed by a series of old wooden branches in platers covered in twinkle lights. And as you enter the alley, you pass under a monumental archway also wrapped in lights. Creating this tunnel all aglow!

Place Jacques-Cartier

At the end of the Rue Saint-Vincent, you’ll pop out right in the middle of Place Jacques-Cartier. The square was originally built in 1723 as the royal gardens belonging to the Château Vaudreuil. The Château Vaudreuil was made for Philippe de Rigaud, Marquis de Vaudreuil but was burned down in 1803. After the destruction, the city transformed the space into a public square, known then as New Market Place.

In 1809, a large column was installed and named ‘Nelson’s Column.’ But in 1847, it was renamed in honour of Jacques Cartier, the explorer who claimed Canada for France in 1535. Today it stands as the oldest public monument in Montreal. During the Christmas season, the street is lined with lighted trees. At the top of the square is a huge light art installation. Made in the shape of large bare trees with branches resembling reindeer antlers.

Bonsecours Market

Head back down to the Rue Saint Paul-East and continue walking until you reach the Bonsecours Market. Bonsecours Market is a two-story domed public market first built in 1844. And for more than 100 years, it was the main public market in Montreal. Today, it’s home to boutique shops popular with tourists. During the Christmas season, the building’s large Doric columns are covered in Christmas lights. Highlighting the beautiful architecture of the old building.

Rue de la Commune

Take a short walk towards the water, out to Rue de la Commune. Rue de la Commune follows the original shore of the Saint Lawrence River. The buildings along the north side of the road are former commercial buildings.

From this point, you have a beautiful view along the tree line Rue de la Commune and the accompanying Christmas lights. You can also see the beautiful Old Port to the north and towering La Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris Wheel, which lights up the sky.

View of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

After getting a good look at the Port, head back up towards Rue Notre Dame Est. Make a stop at the top of the street, where you have an incredible view of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is one of the oldest churches in Montreal. Built in 1771 over the ruins of an earlier chapel. The church is always decorated and lit up for Christmas. With the Ferris wheel spinning overhead, this spot makes for the perfect photo opportunity.

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Vauquelin Place

Looping back towards where we started, walk along Rue Notre Dame Est to Vauquelin Place beside the old Montreal City Hall. The small square is home to the old Montreal Great Christmas tree! It is one of the most instagrammable spots in the city during the Christmas season. The square is named after captain Vauquelin who was a distinguished French naval office. A statue of the captain still dominates the square behind the fountain where the Christmas tree is located.

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Montreal Courthouse

Further down the street, you’ll come up the Montreal Courthouse. The brutalist style of architecture really stands out among the old town neo-gothic buildings. In front of the courthouse every year, they put up a large white illuminated Christmas tree. While it is just one lone Christmas tree, the way the light reflects off the glass windows of the building is really spectacular.

Places d’Armes

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and St. Sulpice Street, we find the Places d’Armes. Place d’Armes is a large public square centred around some of the most famous buildings in the city. This includes the great Notre-Dame Basilica, Saint-Sulpice Seminary, New York Life Building, Aldred Building and Bank of Montreal head office.

Originally the public square was called ‘Place de la Fabrique‘ when it was first developed in 1693, at the request of the Sulpicians. It was later renamed Place d’Armes in 1721 when it became the stage for various military events. From 1781 to 1813, it was used as a hay and wood market. Eventually, in 1836 it was redeveloped as a Victorian garden. For more than a hundred years, the square fell out of favour and eventually fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until 2009 that the city decided to renovate it at a whopping cost of $15.5 million!

During the holiday season, the square is one of the most popular places to come to see the Christmas lights. Massive illuminated stars are set up all around the square. They look like shooting stars that have fallen to earth. As you stand there the stars change colour and transform the look of the square. Just across from the square, the Banque Nationale also features a large window display on their first floor. The trio of Christmas trees and blue twinkling lights delight all the visitors passing by.

Parc Saint-Jean

Continuing along Rue Notre Dame-West, you’ll see some different lighting designs dedicated to this area of town. Along this street, the lampposts are hung with sprays of illuminated tree branches and large brightly glowing snowflakes twinkle and shine.

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and Rue Saint-Jean is a small parkette named Parc Saint-Jean. This park is decorated with the most delightful Christmas lights. It features a large illuminated arch that makes for one of the best Instagram spots in the town. And best of all, this park is pretty hidden away and usually a little very peaceful. The rest of the park is dotted with giant twinkling snowflakes, randomly dispersed all over the grounds.

This brings us to the end of our tour of Montreal Old Town’s Christmas Lights. If you are interested in continuing your tour of Montreal Christmas Lights, head on over to our blog post on Downtown Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights! Let me know in the comments where your favourite displays are in Montreal or what you’re most looking forward to seeing.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Self Guided Tour of Old Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

When planning my Christmas trip to Stockholm, I initially didn’t think about Christmas Holiday closures. When you plan a dream trip, you don’t typically think about all that could go wrong or might not happen. But after booking all my flights, I thought, “Hmm, I wonder if I should be worried about anything being closed while I’m there.” Well, it turns out there was a lot that was going to close while I was there but nothing that a little planning couldn’t fix! All it took was plotting a careful schedule to ensure that everything I wanted to fit into the trip was scheduled on the days when things were open. 

If you’re planning a Christmas trip to Stockholm, here is how to plan your activities perfectly to ensure you see everything your festive little heart desires! I’ve laid out a sample itinerary for you, so you know what you need to visit on which day to make it there before it closes for the holidays. It’s designed as a holiday set in the week leading up to Christmas Day. But you can quickly shift it around to fit your particular schedule.

Guide to Christmas in Stockholm

1. The Essentials
2. What about Daylight?
3. Where to Stay?
4. Public Transit
5. Sample Itinerary
6. December 19th
7. December 20th
8. December 21st
9. December 22nd
10. December 23rd
11. December 24th
12. December 25th

The Essentials

Weather

If you are picturing snow-capped rooftops on your Christmas trip to Stockholm, you might want to adjust your thinking. Although Stockholm does get snow, having a large snowfall around Christmas is a rarity. If you want to see some snow, it’s easy enough to jump on a train and head north toward the colder weather.

Despite the lack of snow, it does get pretty cold in Stockholm in December. The average high is 1°C, but the low is -3°C. Add the wind chill off the water, and without proper clothes, you can be freezing. But, embrace the Nordic saying of “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!” I was sure to bring lots of thermals for layering under my clothes. I also got warm wool sweaters, waterproof boots and an excellent selection of cute hats and gloves, making dressing for the cold all the more fun!

What about Daylight?

Being located so far north, Sweden gets much less sunlight in December than you might be used to in your own country. Even here in Toronto, it gets dark around 5 pm but in Stockholm, expect it to get dark as early as 2 pm! If you want to see something specific during the day, make sure you plan this into your schedule. But the darkness means you’ll be able to enjoy all those Christmas lights almost all day long!

Where to Stay?

NOFO Hotel, Soderlam

NOFO was recommended to me by my friend who lives in Stockholm, as it’s where all his guests choose to stay time and time again. It is located in the hip neighbourhood of Södermalm. The streets of Södermalm are where you can find the most relaxing cafes, trendy bars, and hipster vintage shops. The hotel itself is one of the coolest boutique hotels I’ve ever stayed in. There is a myriad of different room themes and styles, and the breakfast buffet included in your stay is beyond incredible! I almost always opt for eating out of the hotel to experience more local restaurants and cafes, but every morning there was no way I would pass it up!

Collector’s Lady Hamilton, Gamla Stan

Although the Gamla Stan (Old Town) is pretty touristy and most businesses shut down after 5 pm, having your room located inside such a picturesque place is a real treat at Christmastime. That said, make sure you splurge on a room with a view. Collector’s Lady Hamilton Hotel is located in a 15th-century building next to the Royal Palace. The Lady Hamilton Hotel has a 13th-century cellar, which is now used as a plunge pool! Throughout the hotel, you’ll find antique furniture, old paintings and crystal chandeliers, which make you feel like you’re staying inside a piece of Stockholm’s history. 

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Berns Hotel, Norrmalm

Norrmalm is another popular neighbourhood to put your head down as its located in the heart of mainland Stockholm. Norrmalm is probably the most central place to stay to get to everything you’ll want to see. Berns Hotel is one of those luxurious historic hotels that makes you feel like you’re immediately on holiday upon walking in the door! The hotel’s beautiful twinkle light covered exterior looks out over Berzelii Park and the Baltic Sea. The hotel opened in 1863 and has one of the most majestic interiors in the city. They even have an unforgettable holiday experience package at Berns which includes a full Christmas dinner, overnight stay and specialty breakfast. So if you feel like you might be homesick for Christmas, at Berns you’ll never miss a festive beat!

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Public Transit

Since most travellers use public transit as their main mode of getting around, I thought it essential to list out any holiday changes to their schedule.

Metro

Dec. 23rd: Regular Sunday schedule (trains run from 5:00 am to 3:00 am)
Dec. 24th | Christmas Eve: The metro blue line runs from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm every 10 minutes, the green and red run every 15 minutes. From 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, it runs every 30 minutes. After 7:00 pm there is no underground service.
Dec. 25th | Christmas Day: After 6:00 am, the system resumes Sunday schedule service.  
Dec. 26th: Regular Sunday schedule 
Dec. 27th: Resume regular service

Buses

During the week of Christmas, many buses are still running but on adjusted schedules. Since there are so many different routes, it’s best to check online in advance for any specific route you are planning on taking. But in general, expect buses to be running on an adjusted schedule, which means longer wait times.

Sample Itinerary

December 19th

Skansen Christmas Market

The Christmas market in Skansen’s open-air museum is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 26th until December 19th. So make sure you plan accordingly to ensure you arrive in Stockholm in time to visit the Skansen Christmas Market. If you arrived earlier in the month, you could easily visit this anytime. But if you have your heart set on seeing the Skansen Christmas Market (which I did), I would make this your first stop. While the local markets are great in town, the Skansen Christmas market is the most comprehensive and the largest! uy everything from handicrafts and design to sweets, home-made candles and secret Christmas presents. 

If you aren’t interested in Christmas Market, there is no need to rush over here as Skansen is open 365 days a year. But trust me, you won’t regret making this your first stop, as the atmosphere is magical. I would schedule an entire day at Skansen as there is SO MUCH to see and do! Way more than just the Christmas Market. You can visit all the historic buildings and learn about Sweden’s Christmas traditions. My favourite thing to do is end the evening inside the Solliden’s dining room, where you can enjoy a fancy Christmas smorgasbord and buffet. Great way to sample lots of different classic Swedish Christmas dishes.

December 20th

Stortorget Julmarknad

Located in the heart of Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan is the Stortorget Julmarknad. The Stortorget Julmarket is Sweden’s oldest Christmas market. This market, while small, carries everything you’d want from a Christmas Market. From cured meat to glogg, crispbread, handmade ornaments, straw Christmas goats, gingerbread, knitting and more!

The market runs from November 19th to December 23rd and is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. I find going a few days before Christmas Day feels the most enchanting but not as chaotic and busy as the last day of the market.

Explore the Christmas Windows of Gamla Stan

After touring the marketplace, spend the rest of the evening walking up and down the historic streets of Gamla Stan. Since Stockholm was spared any destruction during WWII, this old town is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval quarters. At Christmas time, the storefront and shops along this touristy part of the city are decked out to the nines! Swags of fresh evergreens cover the doorways, Christmas lights glimmer against the icy cobblestones and little pink-faced gnomes in Christmas hats poke their heads out from all corners of the shop windows.

Sample some Glögg

Glögg is the traditional Swedish Christmas drink which all Swedes imbibe come the holiday season. It is sold everywhere, but one of the best ways to enjoy it is outside. It’s the perfect thing to warm up from the cold with! During Christmas-time, the streets are filled with Glögg vendors. Almost every single cafe also sells its own version of the traditional drink. I loved trying one every time it got cold and made a list of my favourite places to get glögg. Create your rating system for a fun little game to play as you wander around the city!

December 21st

Start your Day with a Sweet Treat!

Pepperkakor is the Swedish version of gingerbread and is one of the most iconic baked goods to enjoy at Christmastime. The thin cookies were eaten in Sweden as early as the 1300s. But it wasn’t until the 1800s that it began to be associated with Christmas. You can find these delicious desserts made with gourmet ingredients in specialty cafes, sample traditional homebaked treats in the Christmas markets or buy yourself an entire box inside the charming tins found on every shelf in the grocery store!

Another popular pastry sold during the holidays Saffron buns or lussekatters. These “s” shaped buns are a beautiful golden treat flavoured with saffron and currants. They are called ‘lussekatter‘ or ‘Lucia cats’ as the shape resembles a cat’s tail. These desserts can be found in everything from cafes to convenience or grocery stores.

My favourite Swedish Christmas treats are Kanelbullens or Cinnamon Rolls. They are a very popular thing for Swedes to bake on Christmas morning. They are different from cinnamon buns I’ve had before, with a glossy exterior and big sugar crystals dusted on top! My favourite place to get them is the iconic Vete Katten cafe.

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Walk the Christmas Lights Map

Spread across the city of Stockholm, there are over 40 streets and squares which have been festively decorated for the Holiday season. The stunning decorations are themed around Swedish Christmas traditions and iconography. Everything from moose, deer, mistletoe and stars seems to float around above your head, lighting up the dark days in even darker nights. I have a great guided tour of the city lights to follow-along, which takes you through the city’s best-decorated areas. It’s a fun and festive way to enjoy the streets of Stockholm.

Skeppsbron Waterfront Christmas Tree

Finish your Christmas lights tour with a visit to the Skeppsbron Waterfront to see the largest ‘real’ Christmas tree in the world. Standing 38 metres high, the Christmas tree on Skeppsbron in Old Town is the world’s biggest. It is covered with approximately 5,000 lights and is topped with a four-metre large star!

Enjoy the Julbord

The Swedish ‘Julbord‘ or Christmas feast is one of the most important family traditions. Pretty much all Swede have a Julbord on Christmas Eve. I have a whole post all about the Julbord which you can read to find out what to expect! But just because you might not know anyone who might invite you in for a feast doesn’t mean you can’t sample it for yourself. Historic restaurants like Operakällaren have their Julbord menus for both tourists and locals alike to try! It’s a great opportunity to feast on so many uniquely Swedish foods while also dining in one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city.

December 22nd

ArkDes Gingerbread Houses 

ArkDes on Skeppsholmen island is the national museum for architecture and design. Every year the museum features one of the most interesting Christmas exhibitions. It hosts a huge Gingerbread House competition where adults, children and professionals alike construct amazing creations all out of gingerbread. Since admission is free, it’s super easy to come in and enjoy simply the exhibition without feeling like you need to spend the whole day inside to justify the admission price.

Walking into the room filled with all the submissions, you are overwhelmed by the sweet, intoxicating smell of Christmas gingerbread. Every year there is a theme for the gingerbread houses, making a yearly visit interesting every time.

Centralbadet

If you’re feeling a bit chilly or tired from the cold, one of the best places to warm up is inside Stockholm’s Centralbadet. Centralbadet is a bathhouse located in the centre of Stockholm, yet almost hidden away. This magical place is tucked in off one of the city’s busiest shopping streets inside a large art nouveau building. Although there is nothing specifically Christmassy about this activity, the holiday season and your vacation should be about relaxing! And there is no better place to relax and get a massage than here. You can swim in the Roman pool, soak in the warm thermal baths and sweat out all the stress inside the Nordic saunas! It’s a great way to experience a very Scandinavian way of life.

Get a Bottle of Julmust

While you’re out and about, be sure to stop into a convenience store to pick up a bottle of Julmust. Julmust is a fizzy drink that tastes a little bit like root beer. The drink is ONLY available at Christmas, and Swedes go crazy for it as it has become the taste of Christmas. The drink is so popular in December that it regularly outsells Coca-Cola products as soon as it hits the shelves!

December 23rd

Christmas Cruise

One of the best ways to take in the sights of Stockholm’s waterfront is on a boat. And you might be wondering, “a boat in the winter?” And while indeed the weather might be a lot colder than a picturesque summer’s days it’s an experience not to be missed. The boats which run these cruises are set up to provide their visitors with the most comfortable experience even in the winter months. There is something so magical about seeing the (possibly) snow or frost-covered trees and buildings as you glide along the icy waters. To beat the cold they provide huge fur blankets and warm cups of glogg or hot chocolate.

There are buffets onboard many of these cruises, which provide you with another opportunity to sample a Swedish Julbord. The Christmas smorgasbord features classics like reindeer and elk meat, Swedish sausages, crispbread, smoked herring and salmon and cheese. I would recommend taking the early afternoon cruise. This means you have enough time to enjoy a bit of daylight but also admire the beauty of the city at night. The cruise lasts about three hours. Prices are around SEK 795 per person ($90 USD). Check the website for more details.

December 24th

Live Advent Calendar

Every year the windows around the main square in Gamla Stan are home to an extraordinary Christmas tradition; the Live Advent Calendar. Every day until Christmas Eve, a window around the square opens and out pops a live performer. For 15 minutes, a performance is given by either an individual or a group. This would be a reading of a Christmas story, a speech or a song. Check the website for the schedule of when the windows will each be opened.

While you are welcome to visit the Live Advent Calendar any day leading up to December 24th, I decided to visit on Christmas Ever Day. And I found it to be the most lovely occasion. Many locals were there to celebrate the last day of the calendar, and it felt like a very communal celebration. Everyone sang along to the music, and even though it was all in Swedish, I still loved listening. There were speeches thanking the volunteers, so much laughter and I immensely enjoyed the beautiful music. Even though the Christmas market was closed on the 24th, they still opened the Glogg stalls. This way everyone could enjoy a glass of warm glogg while the Christmas celebrations continued.

Nordic Museum

After hearing the lovely music of the Advent Calendar, head over to the Nordic Museum. The Nordic Museum is one of the only museums still open on the 24th. It stays open to host one of the best Christmas parties in the city open to the public. This is great for families travelling who don’t have anywhere to celebrate at home or for tourists like us! They host a farandole at around noon. This is an open-chain community dance, around the giant Christmas tree in the center of the great hall. You can also meet Tomte, the Swedish Christmas Santa and get one of the best Christmas pictures!

Their restaurant is open, and there you can taste some of the most fabulous Nordic Christmas food. I was so surprised by how good the food was, considering it was set up like a cafeteria. But even the tables where you can eat are decorated for Christmas, and the atmosphere is so enchanting.

The museum has a great exhibition upstairs all about Swedish Traditions. The collection goes through the calendar year and delves into all the different holidays and their origins in both religion and folklore. The best part to visit during this time of year is obviously the Christmas displays. These feature some fantastic pieces of ephemera from Christmases past. It even has a large scale replica of the first Swedish Christmas tree.

Last Chance for Food!

Many grocery stores and restaurants are closed on December 25th. While celebrations are taking place on Christmas Eve, Christmas day is meant for rest. As such, the entire city feels like it has gone to sleep. While some restaurants remain open on the 25th, they are few and far between. If you have your mind set on something it’s best to research in advance to see if that place is open. So you might want to plan to do a big grocery shop in advance to get some ingredients for at-home meals and picnic lunches. Plus, this gives you an excuse to wander the Christmas themed aisles of the grocery store. I honestly love visiting grocery stores when travelling. It’s such an excellent opportunity to find local things to eat and drink that are simple and everyday foods.

When shopping for my Christmas Day meals, I bought a small pre-packaged charcuterie board, bread and jam (the jam in Sweden is bonkers amazing), some interesting drinks I’d never seen before, lots of Swedish snacks, and a few sandwiches, pastries and salads. And, of course, a bottle of glogg and a bottle of Yulemust. These are easy to carry around and have on hand throughout in case you don’t find an open restaurant.

December 25th

Find the City’s Best Views

Since almost everything is closed on the 25th, I found that it was the perfect day to schedule a few walks to some of the city’s best viewpoints! The highest natural point in central Stockholm is Skinnarviksberget. From this rocky outcrop, you can see all across the city to Kungsholmen, Gamla Stan, the Stockholm City Hall, and more. On the opposite side of the town, Fjällgatan, located on the edge of a cliff, provides a stunning view from the east. Throughout this area of town, you’ll pass well-preserved buildings from the 1700s, making it one of the most historical walks to take as well.

Abba Museum

If you are interested in learning more about the Swedish Pop Culture Icons ABBA, you need to pay a visit to the ABBA Museum! It might seem a strange way to spend Christmas Day, but the ABBA museum is one of the few open on Christmas day, and honestly, this place is so much fun; it’s pretty much the perfect place to be to enjoy a spirited afternoon. The ABBA Museum is much more than a museum stuffed with original costumes, gold records, and other memorabilia. With this experience, you can pretend to be on stage with ABBA, record at the Polar Studio, and dress up like the group’s members.

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Ice Skating

Another popular Christmas Day activity is to go ice skating. The Kungstradgarden ice rink and the Vasaparken ice rink are two of the best places to visit in the city. They are each open from around midday to later into the evening. Skating is free, but if you need skate rentals, there is an extra charge. These rinks are gorgeously lit with festive Christmas lights and even play charming music to enjoy as you glide along.

One Last Fika…

Finish your evening off by stopping in at a cafe to enjoy on last Fika. Fika in Swedish means “to have a cup of coffee and a snack with a friend.” It’s absolutely built into the fabric of Swedish daily life. They embrace the idea of taking time to better your relationships while enjoying something scrumptious. I found that there were many cafes still open on Christmas Day despite restaurants being closed. This is how important Fika is, it is one of the only things to stay open! So, keep your eyes peeled and you’re bound to find someplace to rest your feet. It is the perfect way to stop, and reflect back on all the memories from your trip. Take out your notebook and jot down your favourite things you did or saw along the way. Trust me, you’ll treasure taking that time to cement those memories!

I hope this little itinerary was helpful, and it provides a general guide to your first Christmas holiday in Stockholm! The schedule is pretty open, so you can plot any other activities you are excited to do while visiting this fantastic city. Many of the popular museums will remain open until around the 22nd or 23rd. So you can easily fit them in as well, but most don’t have any particular exhibition dedicated to Christmas. I would recommend the VASA museum or Swedish History Museum if it’s your first time in the country. But don’t overpack the schedule as the magic of Christmas is one best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever spent a Christmas away from home and where you most enjoyed travelling!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Discover the Ultimate Guide to a Magical Christmas in Stockholm, Complete Included Itinerary [UPDATED 2022] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

About the Lights

Spread across the city of Stockholm, there are over 40 streets and squares which have been festively decorated for the Holiday season. The stunning decorations are themed around Swedish Christmas traditions and iconography. Everything from moose, deer, mistletoe and stars seems to float around above your head, lighting up the dark days in even darker nights.

When Can you See the Lights?

The Christmas lights are turned on Saturday November 12th at 3 pm in Kungsträdgården. They are taken down around January 13th, so you have plenty of time to see them. The lights come on every day at 2:00 pm. While this might seem early to you, the days get dark very dark early in Sweden. B by 2:00 pm, it’s dark enough for the lights to be seen. The lights generally get shut off around 10pm. But I found that they were left on for later in some areas—especially the most populated shopping streets.

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Accessibility

The guided walking tour is located along city streets and is easily accessible to everyone. Because the lights are all located outside of the old town, this means you won’t need to go over cobblestone or down steep staircases. For the most part, the entire walking path is smooth, and some streets are entirely pedestrian-only.

How Long Will it Take to Explore?

The walking tour should be done at a leisurely pace. While we have specific stops marked along the way, you’ll discover your own unique treasures and hidden gems along the path. Take your time and explore everything you see! But in general, the walking tour should last about two-three hours. That’s enough time to explore but not so long as you get too cold. Be sure to stop into coffee shops and cafes along the route. The perfect way to warm up from the cold.

Stockholm’s Christmas Lights Walk

Operakällaren

Start your walking tour on the south-east tip of the lights map, in front of the Operakällaren. The Operakällaren is one of Stockholm’s oldest restaurants, opening its door to the public in 1787. It quickly became one of the hottest places in the city, frequented by some of the most exciting artists and politicians. Today it is still one of the most exclusive restaurants in town, and as such a flush place, it really goes all out on its Christmas decor.

The restaurant’s ceiling is replete with hanging star lanterns, which can be seen from the street level. These paper lights are one of the oldest Swedish traditional pieces of decor. They originally were thought to represent the Star of Bethlehem and are so popular that Ikea sells them year-round worldwide. Outside of the restaurant is a gorgeous evergreen display that recreates the image of the great Swedish Gävle Goats pulling a Christmas sleigh.

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NK / Nordiska Kompaniet 

Before heading to the east, we are taking a quick detour over to the NK building. NK or Nordiska Kompaniet is a top-rated department store in Sweden, and visiting their Christmas window displays are on the top of the list of seasonal traditions for local residents. The Christmas displays have been ongoing since 1915! One of the ways in which NK’s windows are different from other shop displays is that they are geared solely towards children! They genuinely strive to ensure the displays are installed at a low level. This way kids can see everything as they walk by and don’t need anyone’s assistance to see the scene.

Many other stores also have brand commitments that need to be met for the store windows, which results in the scenes being a little ham-fisted. But NK’s are devoid of branding and are more dedicated to a good-old-fashioned Swedish Christmas. If you have time to pop inside, you’ll be treated to a 4-storey tall Christmas tree!

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Head into Kungsträdgården

From the Operakällaren, head into the magical parkland of Kungsträdgården. Kungsträdgården is Swedish for “King’s Garden” but was initially built in 1430 as the King’s cabbage garden! In 1454 the park was expanded into a royal Baroque pleasure garden. Pleasure gardens were all the rage in the baroque era as they provided a place of recreation and entertainment for the public in the name of the King. A great way to stirrup publicity for the monarchy.

Walking into the park, the first things you’ll be in awe of are the dozens and dozens of linden trees lining your entrance to the park dressed up in Christmas lights. It’s like walking into a dream.

In the middle of the park is where you’ll find the circular ice skating rink. The rink is free and open to all! You just need a pair of skates which are available for rental. *Due to Covid 19 restriction, skate rental is closed for 2020. The rink is open from late November once the weather is cold enough for the ice to keep frozen and closes around the beginning of March. The rink’s hours are Weekdays 9 am-8 pm, weekends 10 am-6 pm. Even if you don’t want to skate, the ring is beautifully decorated and playing charming Christmas music you can dance to while watching the skaters whizz by.

Towards the northern end of the park is where you can find the tremendous royal deer. These 20 ft. tall deers are some of the first sculptural light displays we will see along the tour. These are called the “royal” deer not only because they are in the King’s park but because of their very regal stance. With their heads held high and nose in the air, they definitely look noble.

Grazing Moose along Nybrogatan

At the end of the park, you’ll come to Hamngatan, turn right and walk along till you come to Nybrogatan. Many of the streets in Stockholm end in “gatan,” and that is because “gatan” translates into “street”. On the corner of Nybrogatan and Hamngatan is Berzelii Park. Walking along the eastern side of the park is a herd of moose. No, they aren’t real moose; they are a series of lit sculptures. One of the reasons that moose are such an important symbol in Sweden is because there are more moose in Sweden per square kilometre than any other country in the world!

While you might think these moose are oversized, just like the royal deer we saw previously, moose are truly enormous creatures. They can grow up to 7 ft tall up to the shoulder with the large antlers stretching upwards of another foot or two. The male bulls can weigh up to a whopping 1870 pounds!!! While there are about 400,000 moose in Sweden, 100,000 are culled every year during hunting season to control the population. This culling results in moose meat being eaten and sold all over Sweden, making it one of their most iconic dishes.

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Birger Jarlsgatan

Walk north up Birger Jarlsgatan to the corner of Birger Jarlsgatan and Smålandsgatan. This building contains the corporate offices of Bain & Company. They have sponsored the lightning of the building with a giant red bow charmingly hanging off the facade. It’s so simple and yet so eye-catching.

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Norrmalmstorg 

Walk west along Smålandsgatan to Norrmalmstorg (storg means square). Norrmalmstorg was made famous in 1973 as the renowned robbery site, which resulted in events giving the world the saying “Stockholm syndrome.” But at Christmas time, the square has a somewhat more upbeat tone. In the center of the square stands one of the largest Christmas trees, all lit up with white lights.

One of the most significant differences I found between Swedish Christmas decor and North American decorations was simplicity. Instead of packing the trees with multicoloured lights and a million ornaments, most of the Christmas trees on display in the street were just filled with white lights and nothing more. Even the multitude of Christmas lights in the city stuck mainly to white, red and silver in terms of colours. While some people might think this restrained themeing might be boring, I found the uniformity calming and almost more natural. Like the lights bloomed on the trees like magic. The Brasserie vau de Ville is also located in the center of the square. It always has an elegant splay of decor lighting up the restaurant at night.

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Biblioteksgatan

Directly north of the square is the street Biblioteksgatan. Biblioteksgatan, which means “Library Street” in Swedish, is a street that culminates at the National Royal Library of Sweden and Humlegården. This pedestrian-only street is home to some of the most luxurious brand name stores, and the rent along the road is some of the highest in Stockholm. What this means for you is that most of these stores have some of the most fantastic windows displays set up for Christmas. It makes peering into the window some great fun.

Above your head, as you walk, a series of beautiful wreaths all lit up for the holidays. I absolutely love how they were swagged up and down the street, making it feel cozy and warm.

Norrlandsgatan

Continue walking along Biblioteksgatan until you get to Mäster Samuelsgatan. From there, turn left, and walk until you get to Norrlandsgatan. Norrlandsgatan is famous for being the location of one of Stockholm’s greatest unsolved mysteries. Restaurant Fontainebleau was one of the most popular restaurants in Stockholm in 1982 but was bombed on New Years’ ever, obliterating it. No one was ever convicted for the blast, and still to this day, it remains a puzzle. Norrlandsgatan is decorated for Christmas in these giant hearts, which are covered in lights and filled with enormous red bauble ornaments. It’s definitely the most romantic of the streets and an excellent place for an amorous stroll.

Jakobsbergsgatan

Walk north along Norrlandsgatan until you reach Jakobsbergsgatan and turn left. Jakobsbergsgatan is another pedestrian-only street known for its festive street decor throughout the year. Interestingly the street is home to many architects’ offices. During Christmastime, the road is hung with modern circular lamps with little star cutouts around the circumference. Crawling out from the center of the lamps are branches covered in twinkle lights. These are certainly the most interesting and almost abstract designs of all the Christmas lights. I wonder if the architects around this neighbourhood have anything to do with the more conceptual design of these Christmas decorations.

Regeringsgatan

Upon reaching Regeringsgatan, turn north and walk along the street, looking upwards at the blue snowballs hanging from the sky. Regeringsgatan is one of the oldest streets in Stockholm and was once one of the most critical trade roads. Providing access for travelling merchants to Stockholm’s waterways.

Kungsgatan

As we travel along Regeringsgatan, we finally come to the northernmost point on our tour, Kungsgatan. Kungsgatan means “King’s Street” in Swedish. Many of the most elegant buildings along this street were built in the early 1900s. But before this period of revitalization, the road was more famously known as being a red light district! Today, it is full of famous brands and some of the largest congregation of cinemas in the city. The street was also the site of Stockholm’s first traffic lights, which were installed in 1925! Today the traffic lights help you cross the street and take adorable pictures set amongst the amazing Christmas lights on the road. 

The first thing you’ll see when you approach Regeringsgatan is the excellent Bridge of Regeringsgatan, built in 1911. The bridges are some of the best-decorated spots on the street as they are absolutely dripped in lights! Along the rest of the road are vast swags of evergreens lit up with a large shining star in the center.

As we approach Malmskillnadsgatan and the sizeable arched bridge, look up to see the giant Kungstorn or King’s Towers! These towers are 60 meters tall and flank either side of Malmskillnadsbron. The buildings were built in 1919 and 1924 and are considered the first modern skyscrapers in Europe!

Sergels Torg

Turn down Sveavägen and walk south until you reach Sergels Torg. Sergels Torg or Sergel’s Square is a circular pedestrian plaza named after 18th-century sculptor Johan Tobias Sergel. Segel once lived here and worked just north of the square. In the center of the square is the enormous obelisk which looks down over the people and car circling the square. The obelisk lights up throughout the day and is usually coloured red for Christmas.

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In the recessed area of the plaza, which you can look down on from above or walk down the stairs to access, is a charming little family of moose grazing in a beautiful Christmas light encrusted forest. New to 2020 is an adorable set up where you can get your photo taken inside the faces of various Tomten! Tomten is the Swedish Christmas gnome who is said to live under people’s houses. On Christmas, even you must leave him something to eat to protect yourself from his mischief! He is a lovable creature that is more prominent to the Swedes than the North American Santa Claus image.

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Klarabergsgatan

Walk west along Klarabergsgatan, where you will be delighted by an awning of falling icicle lights. It’s like walking through a sparkling snowstorm but one that doesn’t hurt your face!

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Åhléns City

Another popular department store that always has beautiful Christmas decor on its facade is Åhléns City. Åhléns City is one of my favourite places to shop for Christmas decorations if you don’t have time to buy any at the outdoor markets.

Sergelgatan

Backtrack to Drottninggatan, but turn right down Mäster Samuelsgatan and then north along Sergelgatan. Segelgatan is the same street we view from above before, but this is the street’s sunken part. This area is decorated with hanging red ornaments on golden strings.

Hötorget

At the end of the street, you’ll exit out into the Hötorget square. Hötorget is one of the most central squares in the city as it is where three major roads meet; Sergelgatan, Gamla Brogatan and Kungsgatan. The Hötorget means name Haymarket. Even now, the square serves as a fruit and vegetable market during the day, and on Sundays, there is a large flea market. On the north-east corner of the square is the Royal Concert hall, with its stately pillars of light which are always beaming at Christmas time. The Nobel Prize Concert is held every year inside the Concert Hall and honours the current year’s Nobel Laureates.

Drottninggatan

Head west over to Drottninggatan. This gorgeous pedestrian-only shopping street is named Drottninggatan or Queen street. When it was first built in 1630 is was called “King’s Street” but was renamed Queen Street after Queen Christina, who ruled from 1632 to 1654.

For such a royal road, there is only one option for decorations; regal twinkling chandeliers! Marking the entry and exit to the walkable street are four great lions guarding the entrances. One of Stockholm’s oldest pharmacies, Apotek Ugglan, is located here and has been for over 200 years!

Gamla Brogatan

Backtrack a little bit along Drottninggatan to walk west along Gamla Brogatan. This is one of my favourite streets in this part of town. Gamla Brogatan was initially called. Gamla Kungsholmsbrogatan and was first established in 1637. While the road is narrow and pretty quiet, there are so many buildings along here which have such exciting architecture. Hanging above your heads as you walk are beautiful giant pine cones, glittering in the moonlight.

Stockholms Centralstation

When you come to Vasaplan, walk south along the street until you reach Stockholms Centralstation. While most of the building’s exterior is decorated, the best part is the door to the far south. Here you can find the large arch with enormous hanging mistletoe—the perfect place to steal a kiss with the one you love.

If you have time to step inside, you’ll be amazed at the Christmas lights that cover the train station’s entirety. Walking around here feels like a fairytale come true.

Järnvägsparken

Just south of Centralstation is the Järnvägsparken overpass. One of the loveliest parts of the decor along this part of the city is the fact that the light reflects down into the water, creating the most lovely mirrored effect.

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Tegelbacken

In the small plaza of Tegelbacken, look up high to the lamp posts where you’ll find a series of lit angels blowing trumpets

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Brunkebergstorg

Walk east until you reach Malmtorgsgatan and then veer off to the right until you reach Brunkebergstorg. This sizeable inner-city square is home to two beautiful deer, which are the dominating piece of decor in this part of town. In front of the Gallerian building are two 30 ft tall deer standing proud. But instead of antlers, a beautiful spray of tree branches explodes from their head. They are so stunning and set against the darkness of the night really makes an impact.

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Norrbro

Finally, head back down south to Norrbro. Norrbro or “North Bridge” is an arch bridge over Norrström. The bridge extends out from the Royal Palace and the Riksdag building. It was designed by the city architect Erik Palmstedt (1741–1803) in a neoclassical style.

Since the buildings located on the other side of the bridge are for the royal family, the decorations along the bridge are huge chandeliers topped with golden stars like a crown.

I hope you enjoyed the tour, it’s really one of the best ways to explore the city and you’ll see so many beautiful sights in Stockholm along the way!

Happy Travels Adventurers.

The post Ultimate Self-Guided Tour of Stockholm’s Christmas Lights first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Even though we went to a resort, I still managed to get a taste of Mexican Christmas traditions. I implored the family to take a few tours outside the resort to see how people were celebrating and fell in love with the brightly coloured decorations, festive parties and exuberant atmosphere that seemed to vibrate in the city.

Christmas in Mexico City

Many years later, I would go back to Mexico, but this time skipped the boring resorts and headed right to the lively center of Mexico City. I was lucky enough to be there right before Christmas and was mesmerized by all the wondrous things I saw there. This year, being stuck at home, nothing made me happier than pulling out my bright and beautiful Christmas ornaments I had picked up in the marketplace to hang on my tree.

Continuing our series on Christmas Traditions around the world, I wanted to explore heritage, cultural cornerstones and (of course) the food that creates the incredible atmosphere at Christmastime in Mexico.

Farolito

Farolitos or luminaria are a decoration I have been making since I was a child. My grandparents lived in Arizona, where Mexican influences are everywhere you look during the holidays. Farolitos are paper lanterns that are used to line sidewalks and windows sills instead of wired Christmas lights. They are made from brown paper bags, and you cut different designs into the bag’s face. Then they are filled with sand, and a small candle placed inside to illuminate it. These days battery operated candles are placed inside for a more fire-safe version of the traditional decoration.

The tradition of having luminaries or lanterns used during the holidays comes from the bible. It was mythologized that these types of lanterns guided Mary and Joseph on their way to the inn in Bethlehem. Many of these lanterns are lit around important religious sites but have also become a part of the at home celebrations. 

Nacimiento

Another piece of Mexican religious art that was always a part of our Christmas tradition was the ‘Nacimiento.’ My parents bought their set on a trip to Nogales before I was born. Every year, it was my favourite thing to take out of the Christmas storage boxes. ‘Nacimiento’ translates to ‘birth’ but for our purposes, it is the Nativity scene that most families put up during the holidays. The small, clay figures are beautifully painted and represent the Holy Family, shepherds, the Three Kings, and animals that make up the Nativity scene.

Many families will have their children go outside and collect moss, rocks and flowers to decorate the manger. When we visited Mexico City last year, we were sure to buy our very own Nacimiento set. Nothing made me happier than setting it up this year in our own home, carrying on the custom. Traditionally the figure of baby Jesus is not put out until Christmas eve when he was said to be born.

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Colourful Decorations

Every time I visited one of the marketplaces in Mexico City, I would come home with bags and bags full of souvenirs. As someone who loves bright colours and beautiful textiles, these marketplaces are HEAVEN! And right before the holidays, they are busting with incredible Christmas decorations. These trinkets are completely unique. Like everything else in Mexico, their ornaments are bright and colourful. Using every shade in the rainbow. Far from the boring glossy glass ornaments we’re used to in North America, many of their decorations are made of cloth, tin, straw, clay or other folk art mediums.

Felt Ornaments

One of my favourite things to adorn the tree with are the hand-embroidered felt decorations. So many of the ones I bought originally weren’t meant for Christmas at all but look as if they were always intended to be there. I went out and also grabbed some distinctly Christmas-themed ones which really made the entire tree come alive with holiday spirit!

Other things that I used to decorate my tree were these palm ornaments. They come as both little ones tied together to make a garland or larger versions with these gorgeous frilly tails that are among the most charming additions. You might spot other items in the markets like these rattan rattles featuring a series of bells inside. These really stand out on your tree, and I love the little jingle jangle they make as you are decorating.

Angel Topper

To finish off the tree, I topped the enter thing off with one of the massive embroidered star instead of a typical angel. These ornaments mixed in so well with my other brightly coloured glass baubles, and it’s absolutely the kids’ favourite one in the house! Suppose you can’t make it out to an authentic Mexican marketplace this year. In that case, sellers on Etsy from Mexico can send you everything you need to make your own festive tree. Whether they are for yourself or for a gift, they really make the holidays cheery and bright.

Piñatas

Many people might not know that star-shaped piñatas were initially used to teach children all about the seven deadly sins. These traditional piñatas weren’t made in the shape of famous cartoon characters or rainbows. No, the original design featured a round ball covered in seven points. Each one symbolizing one of the seven deadly sins; envy, sloth, gluttony, greed, lust, wrath, and pride. The stick used to break apart the piñata is faith. The candies that pour out are the rewards for beating down sin with your beliefs.

Las Posadas

In Mexico, there is a celebration called Las Posadas, which occurs from December 16th to 24th. Each night of the festivities, family members go to a different home to celebrate. The word ‘Posada‘ translates into ‘inn‘ as the procession from home to home represents Mary and Joseph’s pilgrimage to find the inn. The end of each night is capped off with the breaking of a piñata. Although this year going house to house might not be an option, creating your own holiday piñatas is a fun activity to do with your children.

Make Your Own Piñata

To make a traditional seven-pointed pinata, blow up a round balloon and tape some pointy party hats onto the balloon. Then cover the entire thing in papier-mache. Once the papier mache is dry, pop to the ballon with a little needle. Cut a hole in the top where you can add the candies or small toys. Once filled, you can use a bit of tape to cover up the hole again. Then the rest is ready to be painted. To add a bit more Mexican festive flare, you can add cut up tissue paper to make tassels and tape to the ends of the points. Once it’s all finished, it’s time to let the kids loose on your beautiful creation! Or if you’re like me, you can just make them as decoration for the house during the holidays and leave out the destruction.

Poinsettias

You might already have one of these in your house right now but you might be surprised to learn that the Poinsettia flower is actually a native Mexican plant. These flowers grow everywhere in Central America. Walking the streets in Mexico City, we were surprised to see them growing in large planters almost everywhere we went. The Aztecs used these flowers to make dye for clothing and cosmetic. They even were known to use the white sap from the flower in medicine to treat fevers.

The name ‘Poinsettia’ comes from a man called Joel Roberts Poinsett. He was the US ambassador to Mexico in 1825. It was him who brought the plant to greenhouses in America. As a rare and resilient winter flower they became synonymous with Christmas. In Mexico, they are called ‘Noche Buena,‘ which translates into ‘Christmas Eve flower‘.

Origins of the Name

The names come from a beautiful Christmas story about a poor Mexican girl. On her way to Christmas Eve service, she was so upset because she had no present to give to the baby Jesus. In Mexico, its was tradition to leave a present on the altar for Jesus on Christmas eve. Her cousin told her not to be sad and that Jesus would be happy with whatever she brought, no matter how small. On her way to church, she stopped by the roadside, picked a few weeds and made a small bouquet.

When she got to the church, she laid the bouquet of weeds on the altar, and to her surprise, they bloomed into a bouquet of bright red flowers. The flower’s shape resembled a star. It looked like the Bethlehem star, which led the wise men to the baby Jesus. It was a miracle, and ever since, the flowers were called Noche Buena after the miracle on Christmas eve. 

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a staple of the holidays worldwide, but we have Mexico to thank for its invention! The Mayans were known to drink a concoction made from chocolate as early as 500 BC! The drink was thought to have many healing and spiritual properties. It was very different from the kind of hot chocolate we drink today. Their chocolate was made cold with cornmeal and chilli peppers ground-up with the cocoa seeds. Chocolate was so important to the Mayan people that archeologists have even found evidence they were buried with their large drinking vessels filled with cocoa.

Hernan Cortez brought chocolate back with him to Europe in the 1500s where it was given to the court of King Charles V. From the courts of Europe, it was altered from a bitter, cold drink to a sweetened, hot beverage. The spicy chillies were also removed as they were too much for the bland royal pallette. But they don’t know what they are missing out on! This year, I implore you to give the spicy hot chocolate a try, made from a traditional Mexican recipe. It doesn’t need to be mouth numbingly hot, but just spicy enough to give it a kick. I think the spice really helps warm you up on a cold night!

Recipe:

The best way to make traditional Mexican Hot chocolate is by using whole chocolate tablets. These are called tablillas and are usually filled with additives like cinnamon, chilis, and vanilla. But if you can’t find tablillas, you can always use high-quality cocoa powder and add those spices yourself. Once the chocolate is melted into the milk, you stir it up using a molinillo. The molinillo is the traditional method of frothing up the hot chocolate, but if you don’t have one, you can just use a wire whisk. The molinillo is rolled back and forth in your palms to create rigorous motions that froth up the milk and combine all the rest of the ingredients. Then you’ve left with a wonderfully froathy, warm and rich beverage! Perfection!!!

Noche Buena

The most important meal of the Christmas season occurs on Christmas Eve, and is known as ‘Noche Buena.’ Families all gather together to celebrate the holiday, bringing with them their favourite traditional dish.

Pozole

One of the most popular dishes served at this meal is pozole. Pozole is a thick soup made with pork and the all-important ingredient: Hominy.  Hominy is made from dried corn kernels which are then treated with an alkali in a process called nixtamalization. Nixtamalization has been a process that the ancient Mesoamericans used for centuries. By soaking the dried grains in this lye solution, it breaks down the cell walls and makes the grain softer. Therefore it is easier to grind. This allows for the corn to be transformed for a myriad of different recipes and applications.

Once rinsed from the bitter-tasting lye, the Hominy can be added to recipes like pozole. Red pozole is served with sliced avocados and topped with cilantro. The contrast of the red and green colours is wonderfully festive! A great recipe to give a try this winter!

Ponche

One of the traditional beverages always had at Christmas time is Ponche. Ponche is a warm, Christmas punch made with fresh fruit. Much like our version of mulled wine, this drink is always simmering on the stove during large family gatherings. One of the more unusual ingredients used in ponche is the tejocotes. Tejocotes are a small yellow fruit that resembles a crabapple. Since they are rather bitter, sugar cane is always added to sweeten up the mix. Then, spices like cinnamon, star anise, tamarind pods or hibiscus flowers are added to give the ponche more flavour and depth. You can choose to add or not add alcohol depending on if you are planning on serving it to the kids or whether this is an adult only treat.

Rosca de Reyes

One of the most traditional desserts eaten at Christmas time is the Rosca de Reyes cake. Rosca de Reyes or the Three Kings Cake is an orange flavoured dessert eaten to celebrate the Kings who made the pilgrimage to see the baby Jesus. The top of the cake is decorated with brightly coloured dried fruits giving it this beautiful, almost bejewelled crown-like appearance.

Hidden inside the cake is a tiny plastic figure of the baby Jesus. It’s a tradition that whoever gets the toy in their slice is in charge of hosting and cooking the tamales on Candelaria Day. Most Mexican families are so busy this time of year, they will generally go out and buy their Rosca de Reyes cake instead of making it from scratch. But you can undoubtedly bake one for yourself if you don’t live near a Mexican bakery and want to give this unique dessert a try.

Hopefully, this gave you a little bit of insight into the beautiful traditions which make up the Christmas season in Mexico. There are so many aspects of the holiday which you can surely add into your own at home traditions or even discover which customs you might have long since been doing but never knew where they came from!

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post Celebrating Mexican Christmas Traditions, a Beautiful & Colourful Holiday first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. It's really not that cold!
2. The Lack of Tourists
3. About That Smell…
4. Accommodation & Airfare are Cheaper!
5. Use Those Savings for Something Special
6. Most Big Ticket Attractions are Inside
7. Embrace Cafe Culture
8. Discover Covered Passages
9. Skip the Noisy Construction
10. You Avoid Smokers
11. People Are Just Nicer
12. The Christmas Markets!
13. Christmas Lights & Decor
14. Winter Sales
15. Winter Fashion
16. Festival of Lights
17. Vin Chaud
18. Parisian Hot Chocolate
19. Roasted Chesnuts
20. Winter Comfort Food
21. Winter is Easy in Disneyland Paris
22. Cheaper Prices on Famous Entertainment

It’s really not that cold!

If you’re from a colder climate (like me – I’m from Canada), the winters in Paris are laughable. It seldom gets below 35°F or 2°C. Check the chart below for winter temperature predictions for Paris. For those of you from warmer climates, you might find this temperature a little chilly. But just make that an excuse to buy yourself a cute new winter wardrobe. Make being out in the cold something fun instead of something frustrating. In November and December, there is actually more rain than snow, so be sure to bring along a good umbrella. In January and February, there is more snow which creates a gorgeous white dusting across the city! There is honestly something so beautiful about the snowfall and especially when it’s across a town as beautiful as Paris!

The Lack of Tourists

If you’ve ever been to Paris in the summer or even the spring these days, you’ll see the telltale lines which seem to sweep all around the city. Paris is filled to bursting and getting into your favourite restaurant or museum always entails a lengthy wait. But in the wintertime, the tourists, scared of the “cold” stay away. And I’ll take it. And you will too! In the winter you can walk down famous streets and find them almost empty. That crowd around the Mona Lisa, maybe won’t disappear but it will be much less intense. Overall, the wintertime brings this peaceful atmosphere to a city which often gets a bad reputation as being rude, crowded and smelly!

About That Smell…

One of the biggest things I hear time and time again from people on their way back from Paris is about the smell! It smells terrible, it really does. Not everywhere, of course, but Paris, as a big city, has a big garbage problem. And garbage, along with dog pee (another prevalent issue on the streets) is responsible for the horrible smell. In the summer, the heat amplifies these smells to a thousand! But in the winter, you’ll barely notice the scent. I never had this experience when in the city except perhaps for the occasional steamy grate near the metro.

Accommodation & Airfare are Cheaper!

With this lack of tourists comes cheaper accommodation and flight prices. There are almost always flight deals during the winter months to entice visitors into the city. Take them up on that offer! Except for the dates right around Christmas, you can almost ways find a significant reduction in airfare and hotels. Prices seem to begin to increase after Easter and start going down after American Thanksgiving.

Use Those Savings for Something Special

There is only one thing better than a hot bath on a cold day. A trip to the spa! There are dozens of fantastic resorts in Paris which cater to locals who want an intimate experience in those colder months. These spas come with steam rooms, swimming pools, saunas and of course, lengthy massages. It’s the perfect way to wind down (which is what a vacation is for after all) but also to warm you up from the inside out if you’ve spent an unusually chilly day outside.

Most Big Ticket Attractions are Inside

Paris truly has the best collection of museums in the world. In such a condensed space, you’ll find hundreds of different places you’ll need to visit! And the best part, they’re all inside. Going to the Louvre in summer and winter is exactly the same experience, except for the number of tourists. Notre Dame is particularly stunning in the winter before Christmas when the entirety of the nave is decorated for the holiday season.

Visiting the underground catacombs in the winter, when the chill in the air is replaced with an oddly warm underground warmth is a truly remarkable experience. Even Versaille, which boasts some of the longest lines, is a great place to visit in the winter. If you’re lucky enough to be there when it snows, you’ll be treated to one of the most unique perspectives on this illustrious palace. And the rest of the enormous tour is all inside.

Walking around the city and seeing the incredible French architecture everywhere you look is an unmissable part of the Parisian experience. But the fact that you can duck into a museum or indoor attraction every few minutes is a great relief for anyone who doesn’t like to be outside for too too long. You can’t walk very far without finding something which will catch your attention.

Embrace Cafe Culture

Another way of escape the cold, if you are getting a bit too chilly on your wanderings, is to duck into one of the many cafes which Paris is so famous for. If you’re a millennial, it seems impossible not to have escaped the lasting impression which the film ‘Amelie’ had on our young minds. Cafes in Paris are THE place to be to soak in the local ambience and sip smooth coffee. Winter means it’s ok to pack on those pounds and hide them under layers. So indulge yourself in the pastries which these cafes serve up by the dozen! Vacation is no time to retrain yourself, have a little fun and satisfy your taste buds!

Discover Covered Passages

Most Metro stations will stop off underground. Inside these little underground passageways are covered arcades and secret entrances to some top attractions. The Louvre’s default (and extremely crowded) entrance is outside near the glass pyramids. But most people don’t know it can also be accessed underground, without ever having to go outside, directly from the Metro station. And in fact, this entrance is FAR less busy since it’s not out in the open where people like to take their pictures. In addition to hidden entries, you’ll also find underground shopping centres. Paris’ covered passages were built during the early 19th century, sort of like Europe answer to North American malls. The oldest of these passages is the Passage des Panoramas which dates back to 1799! During the wintertime, the window displays are lushly styled, and at Christmas, they are a feast for the eyes!

Skip the Noisy Construction

In an old city like Paris, construction is almost constant. If you’ve ever been woken up by noisy jack-hammering on your relaxing vacation, you know how annoying this can be. But in the winter, when it’s colder, it’s much harder to do construction work, and therefore this noise is significantly reduced. If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting a specific attraction only to show up and see its covered ins scaffolding you’ll know how disappointing this can be. Sure this might be unavoidable, but in the winter you’ll have a better chance of it not being under construction.

You Avoid Smokers

There are lots of smokers in Paris. It’s one of those cities where this vice is still hanging on. In the summer, everyone on the street seems to have a cigarette in their hands. If you’re like me and hate the smell of this stuff, then you’ll find that in the winter, fewer people are willing to take those smoke breaks, to avoid standing out in the cold.

People Are Just Nicer

I’ve you’re a resident of a famous tourist city, anywhere in the world, you’ll know what it’s like to be invaded by hoards of tourists every summer. In Toronto, right in the centre of downtown, the streets seem to erupt with tourists. And while it’s great for the economy and brings in lots of exciting events and festivals, it means transit is more crowded, streets are filled with slow walkers (my personal bane), and pretty much everything has a line. In Paris, it’s no different, so its no surprise to find that locals are just a little bit grumpier in the summer when they can’t move about their own city.

The French already have a bad rep for being rude, so add the heat and humidity of summer on top of the crowds, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. But in the winter, people seem more relaxed. More accepting and inviting. You made an effort to come here at a time when others don’t. There appears to be a silent appreciation which they give tourists around wintertime, which I think is just peachy.

The Christmas Markets!

Despite the week of actual Christmas being pricey, the early parts of December are still pretty affordable. And with December comes Christmas markets! Europe does Christmas better than anyone else, and Christmas markets are one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the holiday season. Wander the wooden huts of the market outdoors under the watchful eye of Paris’ splendid architecture. Visiting a Christmas market is one of the best places to do your Christmas shopping. You can find such unique treasures which your friends and family will just gush over! There are markets all over the city and even one at the base of the Eiffel Tower, what better ambience could you ask for?

Christmas Lights & Decor

Once again, this only applies if you’re visiting before, or just after Christmas, but the Christmas decorations around the city during the holidays are honestly magical. I freak out over fairy lights and Christmas trees and travelling anywhere in Europe during the holidays means this in spades!

Winter Sales

Many many people come to Paris to shop. And with good reason, Paris is the fashion captial of the world, and some of the most luxurious brands have their flagship stores here. Even if you’re not into those uber expensive brands, the dribble down effect is real, and many extremely affordable local brands also have some fantastic shops here. In the winter, there are government-mandated sales in Paris where stores cut their prices down on almost everything! This usually happens between early January and early Feb. The famous Galeries Lafayette is one of the best shopping malls to hit up to find rows and rows of deals all in one easy to find place! And the best part – it’s indoors!

Winter Fashion

Being the fashion capital of the world, means you’re going to see just how good winter can look on the French. And you might even be able to grab some of this style for yourself! Learning how to dress stylishly for the winter is a skill, and there’s nowhere better to learn that in France. Sit at your favourite cafe, and people watch. Study their looks, fabulous coats, boot and hat combinations as they walk by. You can spend an entire afternoon doing this, much better than rifling through a magazine.

Festival of Lights

From November 18th to January 19th, the Jardin des Plantes (Garden of Plants) hosts an incredible exhibition of enormous lanterns set amongst the greenery of the garden. Each one is designed to look like a different part of the ocean, which is a nice juxtaposition outdoors on land. It’s a fantastical place to explore for adults and kids alike. This exhibition is only on during the winter when the plants have all died out and yet they are interested in still getting visitors to come out to see the rest of the gardens.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Vin Chaud

France is known for its wines. But what you might not know is that during the wintertime they indulge in vin chaud (hot wine). This is similar to the North American tradition of mulled wine but made in a French fashion. It’s served at most cafes and markets places and makes for the perfect drink to keep you all warm and fuzzy as the sun sets at night.

Parisian Hot Chocolate

If you’re not someone who drinks alcohol or are travelling with children, there is another traditional beverage you can’t miss, and that’s hot chocolate. While it might seem like a childish treat, Chocolat Chaud in France is rich, decadent and is made from wonderfully high-quality chocolate! It’s a fantastic treat for young and old alike. And just doesn’t take the same on a hot summer day. No, as the snow falls, there is nothing better in your hand than a cup of this creamy liquid!

Roasted Chesnuts

Chestnuts have long been a staple of the Parisian winter season, and vendors can be found on nearly every street corner selling the warm, sweet treats. The chestnuts are roasted over open flames, creating a smoky fragrance that entices passerby. Taking a break from exploring the city to enjoy a handful of hot, fresh chestnuts is a timeless tradition for both Parisians and visitors alike. Whether enjoyed as a snack or paired with a warm mulled wine, winter roasted chestnuts are a true delight of the season.

Winter Comfort Food

Every country has its own way of dealing with the cold, and in France, they did it through the cusine. Winter foods in France are rich and hearty. They warm you from the inside out. They are full of fatty meats, heavy starches and sweets mixed in for good measure. Stews, cassoulets and confits are all just some of the marvellous foods you’ll find on the menu in the winter. No one would imagine serving a casserole in the heat of the summer, so getting a chance to try these fantastic meals is something you’ll only get in the winter!

Winter is Easy in Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris might not be on every traveller’s list, but if you’re a Disney-head like me, you’ll know it should be. Like almost every Disneyland in the world, one of the most significant downsides of visiting is the crowds. But in the winter, you’ll find the lines are almost twice as short as any other time in the year. And the fact that half the rides are indoors is a great incentive to ensure you’re not out in the cold all day. Around Christmastime, the entire park is decorated for the holiday season in magical baubles and sparkling garlands which just amplifies the already enchanting atmosphere.

Cheaper Prices on Famous Entertainment

With fewer tourists, come discounted ticket prices on almost everything to incentivize both locals and tourists alike to attend shows. Palais Garnier, one of the most famous architectural masterpieces in the city, hosts opera and ballet performances all year and during the wintertime, you can find tickets for a fraction of the cost. Even try to go up on the day and see what’s left, and you might find yourself with front row seats for the price of the nose bleeds. Even if you don’t know anything about the performance, being inside this historic building and seeing all its luxury and elegance is entertainment enough.

All in all, visiting in the colder winter months has so many wonderful advantages; you’ll just have to try it out for yourself to see if they stack up to any perceived negatives! What’s your favourite place to travel to in the winter? Let me know in the comments.

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post Why Visiting Paris in the Winter is the Best Time to Explore this Amazing City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.