This December, the Bradenton Area Convention Center will transform into a holiday wonderland unlike anything the area has seen before. The European Holiday Market promises an immersive, old-world experience, bringing the charm and magic of a traditional European village with a Gulf Coast flair.
This inaugural event, which will run December 4th through 8th, is far more than the average market or craft show. You’ll begin your journey through an 1880s European train depot, complete with stunning video projections and holiday ambiance. As you step out of the “depot,” you’ll find yourself in a quaint European-inspired village, lined with artisans selling one-of-a-kind holiday treasures and seasonal fare.
Inspired by the classic holiday markets of Germany and France, this event blends Bradenton’s coastal character with old-world traditions. Each day, visitors will enjoy unique shopping, unforgettable food and drink, live music, and seasonal performances, creating a truly memorable holiday experience.
Shop for Unique, Handcrafted Treasures
Immerse yourself in a world of charm as you stroll through rows of artisan stalls offering everything from eco-friendly jewelry to island-inspired artwork. Each item has been carefully crafted, making it easy to find memorable gifts for everyone on your list.
Not only will the shopping feel magical, but the entire atmosphere is designed to transport you back to an era when holiday markets took place on cobblestone streets and shoppers bundled up with a hot cocoa in hand. As you savor the experience, you might forget that you’re still in Florida.
Enjoy European-Inspired Flavors with a Local Twist
This event has spared no detail in creating an authentic (and mouth-watering) culinary journey. Local favorites Oscura and the Anna Maria Oyster Bar will be serving up European-inspired dishes with a coastal twist. The menu will include mouth-watering items like lamb meatball skewers with lemon yogurt, Bavarian pretzels with beer cheese, and crispy potatoes topped with garlic chimichurri.
You’ll also find comforting bites like German bratwurst, Käsespätzle (German mac and cheese), and, of course, Belgian waffles with bittersweet chocolate and orange zest.
And the drinks options are incredible too.
Sip on traditional Glühwein (mulled wine), hot apple cider (with the option to add a splash of bourbon or Fireball), or try the citrusy Floridian Hot Cocoa. Plus, there are holiday ales, craft cocktails, and refreshing seasonal options to keep your spirits bright.
Create Holiday Memories with Hands-On Traditions
Guests can dive into hands-on workshops that bring classic European traditions to life. Craft your own dried orange ornaments (a nod to both European holiday decor and Florida’s citrus history), design holiday cards, or join in a wreath-making session complete with cinnamon sticks and local greenery.
As if that isn’t enough, there’s also a lineup of performances and interactive experiences. You won’t want to miss the live theater production, Far Way Home, following the story of four travelers sharing their holiday traditions through food, music, and stories from across Europe. There are multiple showtimes each day, so be sure to check it out.
There will also be live music, multimedia shows, holiday tree displays, a model train exhibit, and opportunities for pictures with Santa, Anna Maria, and other Christmas Characters.
Don’t Miss this Memorable Holiday Experience
The European Holiday Market will run from Wednesday, December 4th through Sunday, December 8th from 10 am to 9 pm except Thursday, when it closes at 2 pm for a private event. It’s held at the Bradenton Area Convention Center (1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221).
Follow the European Holiday Market on Facebook and Instagram for sneak peeks and updates.
Tickets are $15 when purchased in advance and $20 at the door. You can get a $5 discount when purchasing 5 or more tickets at one time.
On Wednesday and Thursday, Veterans and Educators can take advantage of 1/2 price tickets (Just $7.50). Kids under 8 also get in for free each day.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this one-of-a-kind holiday market that’s sure to become a new favorite tradition.
Get your tickets now 👇
