Discover The Magic Of A European Christmas Village At North Carolina’s Annual Holiday Market

It isn't Christmas until you've enjoyed an enchanting, European holiday market in North Carolina. Located in the Holshouser Building on the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, the St. Nicholas European Christmas Market is celebrating its 16th year in 2023. This annual fundraiser is helping the small Sts. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church parish in Cary built a long-awaited new church. This exciting event attracts several thousand people to enjoy the unique holiday gifts, live entertainment, and the most delicious food all wrapped in the European Christmas Market tradition. The real St. Nicholas will also be there to hear about your Christmas wishes. And the best part — it's free with plenty of parking!

Mark your calendars for Friday, Dec. 8 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 2023.

Sts. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church is having its 16th annual European Christmas Market fundraiser.

The St. Nicholas Market Area is divided up by countries.

From Scotland to Ireland and many others, you'll find quality, hand-knit scarves, sweaters, unique decorations, and one-of-a-kind gift items.

These German steins will be in the market area Merry Christmas Papa!

Here you'll find the perfect gift for all of the males in your life, including warm hats and cozy slippers.

Enjoy a beer from Fortnight Brewing and you'll surely attract people if you pour it in your colorful stein.

Take a seat in the decorated dining hall and prepare for a scrumptious feast.

We love the piping-hot kielbasa with sauerkraut or order some fresh pierogi.

Your tastebuds will thank you for this authentic, homemade cuisine.

You won't believe the sweet selection, so save room!

Polish Gingerbread with Chocolate Ganache anyone?

Dance it off to the accompaniment of the lively Little German Band.

Learn more about these talented musicians and dancers on the Little German Band website.

Remember, this fun event will help build a new church.

For more information about this parish, visit the St. Cyril & Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church website.

Read about the event on the St. Nicholas European Christmas Market website.

And while you're in Raleigh, check out Lafayette Village for a variety of shopping and the Holiday Open House and Live Nativity on Dec. 7, 2023. Discover more about this seasonal event on the Lafayette Village website. And what's the rush? Consider extending your stay in a charming Vrbo.