Visiting Alaró Christmas Market 2018

Charming Christmas market at the foot of the Tramuntana

Imprint: By Jose Rains, Updated 14 December 2018

Alaró, like many other towns in Mallorca, was a picture of fairytale festiveness as its residents hosted the 7th edition of their annual Christmas market on December 8th and 9th 2018.

On Sunday afternoon, I went along to sample its festive delights and came away raving about it to my friends. First of all, its location was second to none - Plaza de la Vila is the heart of the town and is one of the loveliest squares in Mallorca. The immaculately maintained blonde stone architecture was complemented by the vibrant blue sky and colourful autumn leaves on the trees, forming a magical backdrop for the occasion. I couldn’t help but stop in my tracks and soak up the setting.

At the centre of the square, an enormous Christmas tree made from wood stood tall and made this particular market stand out from the crowd. Around this masterpiece, more than 60 stalls embroidered the area and provided a wonderful opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts from local and international designers and artisans. I spied a wide range of fashion accessories, handicrafts, antiques, artwork, innovative toys, furniture pieces, Christmas decorations and so much more.

I was astounded at the quality of the produce on offer. For instance, the lamps made from driftwood and other natural materials caught my eye. Other highlights included natural and biological cosmetics products made in Mallorca, particularly the stall by GAIA Bathtime. The homemade chutneys were to die for and appeared to be a hit amongst the visitors with many coming away with more than one jar. Perhaps they were stocking up for Christmas?

Many were there to devour the edible festive treats. The food and drink offering was a brilliant blend of Mallorcan authenticity, bringing together local treasures with some of the best bits of from its international residents. Traditional German bratwurst seems to be a staple at any Christmas market but here there were dishes from around the world—from Spanish paella and tapas treats to Italian fare together with some more innovative creations like cornflake battered chicken burgers. To cater to the sweet-toothed individuals, there were cake stalls selling macaroons, cupcakes, doughnuts and chocolate brownies alongside some local specialities.

Of course, there was plenty of opportunity to sip on the usual mulled wine ('glühwein' as the Germans call it) or Christmas in a cup as I like to call it. But there was also hot chocolate, beer and a whole selection of coffee in its various formats around the market. With vintage cars, trucks and other forms of transport selling the magic beans.

The market catered for a wide range of ages, with families covering four generations in attendance. The food trucks and the restaurants and cafes that lined the square provided the perfect place for groups to gather. Throughout the afternoon, there was live entertainment taking place around the tree which drummed up an energetic ambience.