Blogmas | Europe's Most Sustainable Christmas Markets

December 21, 2024

Enya Fang

Twinkling lights, cobblestone streets, and snow-decked shops selling handmade crafts and spiced cider. Millions are drawn to the magic of Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland’s Christmas markets each year. On this first Countdown to Christmas feature, we’d like to share our top 5 most environmentally-conscious markets to explore on your next European winter adventure!

‍

1. Essen, Germany. Recognized by the EU in 2017 as Europe’s Green Capital, Essen’s Christmas traditions reflect its continued commitment to sustainability. Ranked as the “Best Sustainable Christmas Market in Europe” by European Best Destinations, it’s 100% powered by renewable energy and features a deposit system for no-plastic cups, mugs, and plates.

‍

2. Maribor, Slovenia. As one of Slovenia’s “Green Destinations,” Maribor is known for its eco-friendly layout. Instead of cutting fir trees, visitors are greeted with pot-planted trees decorated with students from local schools. Additionally, stalls and vendors offer artisanal products and cuisine with sustainable packaging like cardboard and wood.

‍

3. Vienna, Austria. Perhaps Europe’s most historical market, Vienna was awarded the title of “ökoevents” in 2022 by the city government for its adoption of measures aimed at reducing its environmental impact. 75% of the products offered in Vienna’s Christmas Market are organic and sourced from sustainable crops. Its Karlsplatz market is known for featuring plenty of local pieces.

View across a Christmas market with a church behind

‍

4. Manchester, United Kingdom. More than 80% of traders in Manchester’s Christmas markets are sourced from Europe, helping to reduce the carbon footprint of transport. From using power generators that run on hydrotreated vegetable oil, which can reduce up to 90% of emissions in its life cycle, to utilizing renewable energies such as solar power and rechargeable batteries, Manchester’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2038 seems quite possible.

‍

‍

5. Vilnius, Lithuania. Named the European Capital of Christmas for 2025 by the Christmas Cities Network, Vilnius is known for using energy-efficient lighting and environmentally friendly decorations. Additionally, over 80% of the materials used in decorating Vilnius Christmas trees are either recyclable or reusable!