Alternative Christmas Markets 2012

Do not forget to visit our 2012 Christmas Microsite for some great offers!

The traditional Christmas markets spread throughout the city certainly have their appeal, but it’s nice to have some other options. This year on offer are four holiday markets that each provide a less-cookie cutter Christmas market experience with their own unique atmospheres and the offer of original – often handmade – fashion, jewelry, home décor and a host of other design and artisan goods from the Czech Republic, as well as Slovakia, Hungary, Germany and Poland.

There is nothing industrial about the goods you’ll find at this Christmas market, but rather, the headline refers to the building in which this all-day-into-the-night event will happen. Located just a stones throw from the Vltavská metro station, the venue for Heilige Market was formerly the Central Electrical Company and stands out as one of the city’s best examples of functionalist architecture. Today the space is home to architects, artists and designers who have set up their studios there, adding to Holešovice’s reputation as a blooming artist hub and contributing to Heilige market’s creative holiday atmosphere. Among the participants, several of who call the space home, are Luciela Taschen whose well-shaped, leather and felt bags are all handmade – in fact, each one is an original.

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Now in it’s sixth year, Design Supermarket has put itself on the map for the caliber of its participants. Along with the offering of fashion, jewelry, accessories, porcelain, glass, furniture, books and other wares from young talents, Design Supermarket is something of a mini-Designblok with original offerings from some of the country’s design stars and a handful of international designers. Occupying 1600 square meters, the space has been thoughtfully designed into different departments “like a good supermarket” according to the organizers, but without the mass-produced goods. In fashion, well-regarded Czech design brands Chatty, Chi-Chi, Hana Zárubová and Leeda will be on offer to spice up your best friend’s wardrobe. For jewelry lovers, have a look at Blueberries, Unosto, Ja.ne and Eva Růžičková. For plant appreciators, check out Krikri (who has some lovely glass pieces all the way around) and Zahrada na niti. For both guys and gals, have a look at Hungary-based Balkan Tango’s bags from recycled bike inner tubes.

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Offering design, jewelry and of course fashion, Holešovice Fashion Market – now in it’s fourth year – is promising and even bigger and better holiday market in 2012 with more space, more vendors and a broader range of wares. Held under the theme of “Don’t Rely on Santa” the event once again touts a more independent shopping experience “People can choose if they want to support huge multinational companies, or rather local designers, who will personally present their original products in their stall,” said the organizers. Deesign offers well made, limited edition bags in fun shapes and colors. For the little ones, Little Rockstar, will help them embrace their independent spirit early on with fun t’shirts, pyjamas, hats, bibs, swimsuits and shoes.

Pick up some handmade hot pepper or Christmas light earrings from Psychee. In women’s fashion have a look at angular shirts from Soolista and the original, limited collections of Zuzana Veselá. Lucitta offers coasters, pillowcases, table runners and jewelry made from wool felt with Swarovski crystal ornamentation. Holešovice Fashion Market will also include fashion shows, dance performances and live music. “Furthermore, [this market] is an opportunity to have a nice cup of organic coffee or tea and enjoy the vibe of this unique event.”

Located on the piazetta at the National Theater, the Dyzajn Market carry’s the same special downtown atmosphere as the other centrally located markets, but with more original offerings. Including handmade and heart-made goods from over 90 Czech and Slovak makers, offerings will include porcelain cups, candleholders, vases and jewelry by Sarkas; hand crochet neck warmers, fingerless mittens for men and women and home accessories by Mari.bou; cut and engraved stones – made into plant holders, salt and peppers shakers and other accessories – by Czech, Sicily-based brand Mihulli and titanium and leather bracelets and bracelets and bags made from rubber bands (seriously, it looks very cool) from Denias. Enjoy soups, Balkan specials and drinks from Café Jericho. The atmosphere will be further enhanced with music including a-cappella jazz sextet Skety.