Discover the magic of Christmas in Craiova, the city that transformed holiday tradition into a European phenomenon! Get ready for a fairytale journey into the heart of Oltenia, where the Craiova Christmas Market 2025 awaits you with an enchanting theme inspired by the classic "The Nutcracker." From dazzling lights and impressive decorations to concerts, culinary delights, and attractions for all ages, Craiova once again promises one of Europe's most spectacular winter experiences.
A Tradition of Magic and Records: Craiova Christmas Market
Craiova is not just a historic city, but also a hub of fun and Christmas magic, recognized at a European level. After consistently ranking among the most beautiful Christmas markets on the continent in past years, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world, the 2025 edition is set to exceed all expectations. The municipality is dedicated year after year to bringing innovation, quality, and unique experiences, transforming each edition into an unforgettable memory.
From The Snow Queen to Beauty and the Beast: A Fairytale Evolution
Year after year, the Craiova Christmas Market has impressed with captivating themes and spectacular decorations, unique in Romania and even in Europe.
2023: The Ice Kingdom of the Snow Queen
In 2023, Craiova shone under the sign of the Snow Queen. Mihai Viteazul Square was transformed into a white-turquoise kingdom, with amazing details, a giant Christmas tree, and a sparkling ice rink. In Theater Square, a 40-meter panoramic wheel, the largest in Romania, was installed. The fairytale atmosphere attracted visitors eager to explore the cloud vault, the wonderful castle, and the giant mirror surrounded by shards, all enveloped in over two million Christmas lights. The success was resounding, with Craiova being voted the second most beautiful Christmas market in Europe by European Best Destinations.
2024: A Fusion of FASCINATING Stories
The 2024 edition continued to innovate, with "Beauty and the Beast" as the main theme, but also integrating other fascinating concepts like "Star Wars" and "Santa's Village."
This multi-thematic approach transformed Craiova into a Christmas universe interconnected by millions of lights. Santa's flying sleigh, the tallest in Eastern Europe and a premiere in Romania, enchanted millions of visitors, and the themed amusement park, "Santa's Village," spanning almost 5,000 sq m, offered diverse attractions, from a Venetian carousel to a reindeer-pulled sleigh roller coaster and VR technology.
The market attracted over two million visitors from countries like Bulgaria, Serbia, Italy, Greece, Great Britain, Poland, USA, and even Australia, confirming its status as the largest Christmas market in Europe, spread over 280,000 sq m across five squares and all central alleys.
2025 Edition: The Magic of "The Nutcracker" Comes to Life
For the Craiova Christmas Market 2025, get ready to be transported into a magical world, inspired by the timeless story of "The Nutcracker." Imagine Mihai Viteazu Square transformed into a classic ballet set, with lead soldiers, giant mice, and a delicate ballerina. Every square and every street will breathe the atmosphere of this theme, from dynamic light projections on historic buildings to unique artistic installations.
Memorable Attractions and Experiences
The Craiova Christmas Market 2025 will continue the tradition of surprises and innovation, offering a multitude of attractions for the whole family:
Extensive Locations and Themed Decorations
The market will take place in multiple key locations in the city, interconnected by a network of lights and stories: Mihai Viteazu Square, Frații Buzești Square, William Shakespeare Square (National Theater Esplanade), Casa Băniei, and the Doljana area. Each area will feature specific elements from "The Nutcracker" theme, from gigantic Nutcracker dolls to decorations inspired by the Kingdom of Sweets.
Entertainment and Culinary Delights
Visitors will enjoy a wide range of entertainment: concerts every weekend (with surprise artists and established names), carols performances at the Christmas tree-stage, creative workshops for children, and parades of fairytale characters.
There will also be the enchanting stalls of over 90 merchants, where you'll find an explosion of aromas and tastes: from traditional Romanian, Greek, or Lebanese dishes, to fragrant gingerbread, pies, waffles, mulled wine and stroh, specific holiday sweets, artisanal souvenirs, and handmade gifts.
Plan Your Visit to Craiova Christmas Market 2025
The Craiova Christmas Market 2025 will open its gates on November 15, 2025, and will bring joy until January 5, 2026. The detailed program, including operating hours and the list of performing artists, will be announced closer to the event, ensuring a perfectly planned experience for all visitors.
How to Get There and Where to Stay
Craiova is easily accessible from all corners of the country and abroad. To fully enjoy the market's magic, we recommend booking your accommodation in advance. Previous experiences have shown very high demand for accommodation during the market period, with hotels and apartments occupied over 95% and prices that can significantly increase. A "Craiova City Break" during this period is an excellent opportunity to explore not only the market, but also the city's other tourist attractions, such as the Art Museum or the Oltenia Museum.
Why Craiova is Your Christmas Destination in 2025?
With a recent history of ranking on the podium of Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets, Craiova is not just an option, but an unmissable destination. Every detail, from the design of the hand-painted stalls by local artists to the light show and innovative installations, is designed to create a fairytale atmosphere. Come and enjoy the magic of "The Nutcracker" and experience an unforgettable Christmas in Craiova!
See other Craiova FairsThe images were kindly provided by the Marketing Department of Craiova City Hall from their Facebook page, for which we extend our thanks!