It’s the season of the holiday markets, yet as we know the pandemic has led to uncertain circumstances for many, with some returning to being open as in years before, others opening with restrictions and yet others shut down for the second year in a row.
Holiday and winter markets are beloved traditions that are also critical for the merchants who sell their goods there, many for whom, the market sales account for a great percentage of their yearly earnings.
Restaurants and shops on surrounding blocks also historically benefit from this annual event.
Deutsche Welle reports that as many as 3 million people would visit Munich’s famous Christkindlmarkt in “normal times” buying presents and enjoying the treats of the season.
Christkindlesmarkt in Nürnberg (pictured) is beloved locally as well as a very popular winter travel destination. Many more holiday markets exist around the world, treasured as local traditions and part of a city’s heritage.
As is obvious, these seasonal, open-air street markets are car-free and as pedestrian-friendly as can be, with people milling around the festive, cozy environments day and night, enjoying mulled wine and other seasonal goodies.
They are a historic and basic testament to the joy people experience (even in dipping temperatures) moving by foot while contributing to local economy and spending time with friends and family.
Wherever you are, we wish you a safe and warm-hearted holiday season.
-Annika Lundkvist, Editor & Founder at ‘Pedestrian Space’
