Christmas Magic in Chișinău: Discover the City’s Most Charming Winter Markets
When winter settles over Moldova, the country transforms into a serene world of snow-dusted vineyards, flickering candlelit monasteries, and quiet villages where traditions are alive in every household. Far from the crowded European winter hotspots, Moldova offers something rare: authentic warmth, peaceful landscapes, and a sense of timelessness that turns every visitor into a storyteller.
Christmas markets in Chișinău you can visit this winter 🎄❄️:
The Christmas and New Year festivities already started on December 5 and last till January 18th.
In the Great National Assembly Square, under tens of thousands of lights, hundreds of visitors can enjoy warm traditional dishes. The Christmas Market, inaugurated on the evening of December 1st, brings together more than 30 exhibitors from various regions of the country. They offer everything from handcrafted decorations and unique gifts to culinary delights and hot beverages.
Among the main attractions are the panoramic Ferris wheel and the open-air ice rink, which can accommodate up to 300 people at the same time.
At least 3 concerts are planned on the main square:
- on December 24th from 5 pm till 10 pm
- on December 31th at 7 pm
- on January 6 from from 5 pm till 10 pm.
Expect mulled wine, traditional pies and snacks, handicrafts, children’s entertainment, and a winter wonderland atmosphere around the Great National Assembly Square.
🎄 Christmas Fair (GIFT EXPO)
📍 International Exhibition Centre “Moldexpo”, Chișinău
🗓️ December 18 – 21, 2025
A festive indoor Christmas fair showcasing holiday gifts, crafts, local artisanal products, decorations, toys, winter accessories, and food stands — perfect for last-minute shopping and family visits.
In addition to the main market, many local sectors host community Christmas events and mini markets with cultural shows and activities:
- In Ciocana Sector: holiday performances, music and Santa visits at Aleea Mircea cel Bătrân - December 19th, 28th, 30th
- Botanica Park (“Valea Trandafirilor”): Christmas shows and family-friendly festivities - December 16th, 18th, 25th, 30th, 31th.
- Buiucani & Rîșcani Sectors: seasonal concerts, theatre, and winter cultural activities - December 17th, 18th, 19th, 22th, 23th.

The “7 Wonders” Christmas Town was opened on December 5th in front of the “Maria Bieșu” National Opera and Ballet Theatre, organized by Orange Moldova and will work until January 12th, 2026.
Here you will find:
🎭 surprising performances and meetings with charming Santas
🎠 fun carousels
🎨 interactive activities for all ages
🍬 seasonal culinary delights and countless gifts.
These local events often include workshops, carol singing, children’s entertainment, and festive snacks — great for exploring beyond the central market. Chisinau’s Christmas markets and events bring the city to life in winter, offering a nice atmosphere filled with warmth and joy.
While Moldova isn’t a skiing destination, it excels in slow, eco-friendly winter tourism focused on peace, authenticity, and reconnection with nature. If you'll want to go beyond Chisinau and discover Moldova’s most charming winter destinations. With Moldova Tours, you can explore these hidden gems comfortably, safely, and with expert local guidance. Whether you come for the wine, the monasteries, the cuisine, or the charm of rural life, winter in Moldova is a story waiting to be lived.



Check out the calendar of cultural and tourist events in the Republic of Moldova for the 2025 season






