Originating in the 14th century in Germany, the traditional Christmas market has long signified the start of Advent and the approach of the Christmas festivities. Over the years, the Christmas market tradition has spread across the globe and has now reached Aviemore, where the Macdonald Aviemore Resort is running a Christmas market every weekend until December 28.
Along with festive fun, the market, which is open from 10am, has gifts, sweets and treats as well as warming soups, crepes, hot chocolate, gluhwein and even a refreshing beer from the Cairngorm Brewery. In addition, on December 22, 23, 24 and 31, youngsters have the option of visiting Santa in his magical Highland grotto and to see his reindeer during the afternoons or visit the recently opened Aviemore Activity Centre, which has age-specific interactive play zones. There are also fairground rides and an enticing Santa sweetie stall packed with traditional old-fashioned sweets.
The resort is also staging the pantomime Dick Whittington, which is running until January 4 and costs £8 per ticket or £30 for a family of four.
