Tivoli Gardens 2011, "Russian Christmas". Photo: Flickr/Comrade Foot
Sleigh your way to Europe to join the annual festivities of Sinterklaas -- or Sankt Nikolaus, or Father Christmas -- and bring back a gift even the elves would be proud of, especially when shopping amongst our Fab Four.
Christmas in Tivoli Gardens -- Copenhagen, Denmark
Europe’s second oldest amusement park, Tivoli erects a small traditional Christmas village complete with an ice-skating rink and plenty of twinkling lights. Keep warm (and stylish) with hand-knit mittens, socks, and hats. Nov. 11–Dec. 30; Tivoli.dk
Pink Christmas Market -- Munich, Germany
A Christmas market just for the gays with live cabaret, pink trees, and Queen Claus. Rejoice in the festivities by feasting on Christollen (fruitcake), washed down with plenty of mulled wine, naturally. Dec. 3– 22; Joobili.com
Bremgarten Weihnachtsmarkt -- Zürich, Switzerland
A day trip to Bremgarten brings a boon of more than 250 vendors to satisfy shopping needs. Munch traditional Christmas tirggel—hard, thin, and sweet cookies—to power you through the day. Dec. 1–4; Weihnachtsmarkt.ch
Valkenburg Christmas Market -- The Netherlands
Europe’s oldest and largest underground market in South Limburg is between the German- Belgium border. After a few eggnogs, the whole Santa’s-workshop vibe really comes alive. Nov. 18–Dec. 23; Kerstmarktgemeentegrot.nl
Photo: Flickr/roblisameehan
