Best Places to Visit in Belarus for Christmas Cheer

Belarus, with its rich history and cultural heritage, offers a unique experience for expats and digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in the festive spirit during the holiday season. December in Belarus transforms into a winter wonderland, with cities and towns adorned with twinkling lights, traditional markets, and a palpable sense of celebration in the air. Here are some of the best places to visit in Belarus to capture the essence of the holidays and create unforgettable memories.

Minsk's Upper Town

The historical Upper Town of Minsk is a must-visit during the holiday season. The area comes alive with festive decorations and the enchanting Christmas market, where you can find handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional Belarusian treats. The market usually runs throughout December, offering a perfect opportunity to soak in the local culture and holiday cheer. Additionally, the Upper Town hosts various concerts and performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local delicacy of draniki, a type of potato pancake, often served at the market stalls. Pair it with a cup of hot, spiced mulled wine to keep warm while you explore.

Grodno

Grodno, with its picturesque architecture and historical charm, becomes even more magical during the holidays. The city's main Christmas event is the Grodno Christmas Festival, which typically takes place in early December. The festival features a grand Christmas tree, a fair with artisanal crafts, and a variety of festive foods. The streets are lined with lights, and the air is filled with the sounds of Christmas carols, creating a truly enchanting experience.

We Recommend: Be sure to sample the sweet and sticky honey cakes, a popular treat at the festival, which are sure to delight your taste buds.

Brest Fortress

While not a traditional holiday destination, Brest Fortress offers a unique experience with its "Brest Christmas Tale" event. This historical site transforms into a fairy-tale setting with themed light installations, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for holiday photos. The event typically takes place in mid-December and includes theatrical performances and interactive activities for visitors of all ages.

We Recommend: Take a moment to enjoy the spectacular light show, which beautifully illuminates the fortress walls and adds a touch of magic to the historical surroundings.

Vitebsk

Vitebsk, known as the cultural capital of Belarus, hosts a vibrant Christmas market in its charming town center. The market is a hub for local artisans and craftsmen, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. Visitors can enjoy traditional Belarusian music and dance performances, making it a lively spot to celebrate the season. The market typically runs from early to late December, providing plenty of time to explore and enjoy the festivities.

We Recommend: Try the local version of gingerbread, often intricately decorated and available in various shapes and sizes, a perfect sweet treat for the holiday season.

Gomel

Gomel's festive spirit is best experienced at the city's central Christmas market, where the holiday atmosphere is contagious. The market features beautifully decorated wooden chalets selling everything from seasonal decorations to warm winter clothing. Gomel's Christmas market also offers a range of culinary delights, including hot street food and traditional Belarusian pastries. The market usually opens in early December and continues until the New Year.

We Recommend: Indulge in a portion of syrniki, a type of cheese pancake, often served with sour cream or jam, a comforting treat on a cold December day.

Mogilev

Mogilev welcomes the holiday season with its festive Christmas fair, located in the heart of the city. The fair is a great place to find hand-painted ornaments, wooden toys, and other crafts that make for perfect holiday gifts. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts and plays, that capture the spirit of the season. The fair and events typically start in early December and last until Christmas.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the hot, freshly made blini, often filled with sweet or savory fillings, a staple at the Mogilev Christmas fair.

Bobruisk

Bobruisk may be smaller than some of Belarus's other cities, but it boasts a cozy and inviting Christmas market. The market is a great place to mingle with locals and experience traditional Belarusian holiday customs. You'll find a variety of handmade goods, from knitwear to festive decorations. The market usually opens in mid-December and is a delightful place to find unique holiday gifts.

We Recommend: Warm up with a serving of zrazy, meat-stuffed potato rolls, a hearty and satisfying dish popular at the Bobruisk Christmas market.

Polotsk

Polotsk, one of the oldest cities in Belarus, offers a historical backdrop to its Christmas celebrations. The city's Christmas market is set against the stunning architecture of ancient churches and buildings, providing a picturesque setting for holiday shopping and entertainment. The market features traditional Belarusian goods and is a great place to enjoy local cuisine. The festivities in Polotsk usually begin in early December and continue through the holiday season.

We Recommend: Sample the kvass, a traditional fermented beverage made from rye bread, which is a refreshing and unique drink to enjoy while exploring the market.