The Dutch Christmas Market runs from the end of November to late
December and each year there is a different theme. Numerous stalls
and grottos with twinkling fairy lights are set up in niches along
the maze of tunnels. With its location being below ground you are
protected from the elements outside, making for a warm and cosy
atmosphere. Resembling a scene from a fairytale, this Christmas
Market in Holland is especially popular and buzzes with over
125,000 visitors each year.
As you wander around the series of tunnels you will eventually
come across the Velvet Cave, or Fluweelengrot as it is known to the
locals. Here you will see fascinating wall murals, sculptures and
inscriptions carved into the soft Marlstone walls. Amid the sound
of seasonal music you will find many stalls selling various
Christmas decorations and gifts such as ornaments, handmade crafts,
children's toys, candles and confectionary - you won't struggle to
find presents for loved ones back home! Sampling some of the
traditional Dutch food is a definite must whilst looking around
this Christmas Market in Holland. Try Dutch oliebollen, similar to
doughnuts or poffertjes which are tasty sweet pancakes. Then
there's the delicious Dutch pea soup and mouth-watering
braadworsten (fried sausage). Take time to stop at the Winter
Wonderland Tavern to try out these delectable delicacies and treat
yourself to a heart-warming glass of Glühwein while you're
there.
Visiting this popular Christmas Market in Holland will take you
to the oldest railway station in the Netherlands. All the proceeds
from the market are put back into conserving the town's heritage by
facilitating repair and restoration works on Valkenburg Castle and
its surroundings.
