Christmas Markets: The New Winter War

Text and photos Stewart Johnson

Balti Jaam's Christmas market has a much lower population density.

Tallinn’s world-famous Christmas market on Town Hall Square is considered one of the major Christmas superpowers on the planet. The Christmas market at the Balti Jaam Market to the northwest is tiny by comparison, and is facing unbelievable odds in its battle for survival. No one expects it to win! What will happen?

First, let’s examine what each market has. The Balti Jaam’s Christmas market has a beautiful entrance on either side, replete with holiday lights, evergreens for sale and on display, and vendors. Food and drinks available include masses of holiday meats, such as sausages, pork, and more. Mulled wine is available in several locations. And while this market only has three main rows of stalls, everything you could want in a Christmas market is there. Of particular interest is the stained glass vendor by the entrance to the Balti Jaam Market itself.

The main market on Town Hall Square has all the same stuff as at Balti Jaam, but just…more of it. And a bigger tree. In fact, everything about this market is bigger, and in every way. It’s a hopeless battle—Town Hall Square should easily win this Christmas Winter War.

What visitors didn’t expect at the Town Hall Square market were the much higher prices than at Balti Jaam. Mulled wine at the big market is €7, and at the smaller market it’s as low as €4, for the exact same glass of cheer. Believe it or not, the food selection at the smaller market is also exceptionally more diverse, because the Balti Jaam Christmas market is at…the Balti Jaam Market, one of the most beloved food courts in all of Estonia. Every manner of cuisine from around the world is readily available just a few steps away. There’s also a large grocery store, whereas in the Old Town there are only a couple smaller grocery stores. Not to mention fresh fruits and vegetables in several locations. The Old Town doesn’t have anything like it!

Balti Jaam’s Christmas market also enjoys a lower population density, resulting in a higher standard of living for visitors. They are free to walk and talk, whereas on Town Hall Square it can often be a bit difficult to maneuver through the crowds.

In a surprise victory, Balti Jaam’s Christmas market is victorious over the much larger one on Town Hall Square! This is mainly due to taking advantage of the native geography and surroundings.

Both of course are very much worth the visit! And both are open until 28 December. Balti Jaam’s Christmas market closes at 20:00, and on Town Hall Square 22:00.

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Balti jaam Christmas Christmas Market Events in Tallinn holidays Town Hall Square