Christmas Markets in Yerevan: A Winter Wonderland

There is no better way to ring in the most wonderful time of the year than a stroll through a Christmas market. Even if you don’t buy anything, there’s something magical about the lights, the atmosphere, and the holiday bustle!

This festive tradition is relatively new in Armenia, although it has taken off in the last decade. In December 2012, the first Christmas market opened on Northern Avenue , one of Yerevan’s busiest pedestrian streets. At the time, it had only 16 wooden stalls, but the number has increased each consecutive year. Now, there are multiple markets to choose from all throughout the city and local residents look forward to the holiday cheer they spread.

Ready to enjoy freshly made treats and piping hot drinks and purchase artisan gifts for the special people on your list? (Some of these events are organised to support charitable causes, and others feature products from social enterprises, so you can feel good about spending!) Keep reading for more information on locations, dates and times:

Republic Square

Every year, the Yerevan municipality goes all out and decorates the heart of the city – Republic Square – with a massive Christmas tree and lots of lights! At the park next door, which is dedicated to the 2750th anniversary of Yerevan, you’ll find one of the city’s biggest markets under the sparkling trees. Here, you can find delicious food, hot drinks, cosy seating areas, photobooths, toys, handicrafts and more. Check the schedule [can we link to this?] of the market for concerts, Santa meet-and-greets and other special events. This market operates daily from December 19 to January 6.

Yeraz Park 

In addition to its fairytale atmosphere, this market is unique for its nearby ice-skating rink! Take a spin on the ice before warming up with a cup of hot-chocolate and a snack. This market is also special in that it is organised by the team who first introduced Christmas markets to Armenia in 2012! The Christmas market moved from Northern Avenue to Yeraz Park a few years back.

Coca-Cola Christmas Market

This year, Armenia’s biggest-ever Christmas market is operating from December 20 to 24 at the Karen Demirchyan complex in Yerevan. There will be opportunities to sample food and drink before purchasing, meet Santa, purchase a range of gifts, participate in mega-games, enjoy movies and performances, and have fun in multiple holiday-themed free photozones. Visitors interested in attending can take advantage of free bus transport every hour (12:00 pm to 8:00 pm) from Republic Square to the complex, as well as in the reverse direction. The market is open until 11:00 pm. Find more info here.

Seasons Christmas Market 

In the summer months, Diana Abgar Park attracts lots of small children to its colourful singing fountains. In December, the area transforms into a festive fair, boasting uniquely themed stalls, a beautiful central Christmas tree, and small “campfire” stations where you can warm your hands and feet. As at the other markets, you’ll have the chance to purchase yummy snacks, drinks and gifts through January 13.

So, enjoy the wonder of the season and make special memories with your loved ones at Yerevan’s Christmas markets this year!