Bergen’s Christmas Market defies early Season skepticism, Drawing crowds and boosting Spirits
Despite growing concerns about the premature arrival of the holiday season, Bergen’s Christmas market is proving a resounding success, attracting visitors from across Norway and even winning over initial skeptics. The market,which opened on November 23rd,is bustling with activity,offering a festive atmosphere and a surprising demand for early Christmas purchases.
A growing trend of retailers launching Christmas displays as early as October has fueled a backlash from some, who feel the festive period is being stretched too thin. One observer initially expressed frustration with the early commercialization of Christmas, questioning the need to visit the market so early in the season. “Why did I actually suggest creating a mood report from the Bergen Christmas market?” they pondered, noting annoyance at the premature appearance of Christmas trees and advertising.
However, a visit to the market quickly revealed a different reality. Brilliant sunshine greeted visitors this Sunday, and the atmosphere was overwhelmingly positive. One of the first sights to capture attention was a row of Christmas trees – not decorated, but already in demand. “Yes, already on the opening day the interest was so great that I sold two of the exhibition trees,” confirmed Bjørn Burmeister, a Christmas tree seller from Stavanger, who is offering trees from Osterøy and wreaths from Askøy. he noted a particular interest in “city trees,” smaller varieties suitable for apartments.
Burmeister also offered a practical argument for early purchases. “People don’t think about the fact that if you buy a tree now or on Christmas Eve, they are all cut down simultaneously occurring. You don’t get fresher trees by waiting,” he explained, advising customers to store trees outside untill ready to decorate, then briefly in water before bringing them indoors.Despite a general decline in real tree sales due to the popularity of artificial alternatives, Burmeister emphasized the enduring appeal of the “smell of a real Christmas tree in the living room!”
The market’s appeal extends beyond tree purchases. Families flocked to the stalls,enjoying the festive atmosphere and attractions. Wenche Engnestangen, visiting from Hønefoss with her granddaughter, described the market as a “vrey great initiative!” and patiently waited in line for a carousel ride.Similarly, Erik valle and his daughter Ine were eager about the carousel, with Ine offering an enthusiastic nod when asked if she was looking forward to the ride.
A ten-year-old girl, Madelen Eik Søllesvik, was overjoyed after winning a two-kilogram box of Twix chocolates at the wheel of fortune stall. Her mother, Ingvill Eik Søllesvik, noted they were visiting Bergen for a handball match and found the market a delightful addition to their trip. Visitors from Førde also made the journey specifically to experience the market, praising the festive atmosphere and the abundance of attractions.
Local artisans are also benefiting from the increased foot traffic. Janniche Lavik from nordnes Verksteder, a stall offering handmade and locally sourced products, reported strong sales. “Janniche has been grinning at the sales figures already,” laughed Audun Lullau, her colleague, adding that customers appreciate the short travel distance of their raw materials, including wood sourced from Fløyen mountain.
Initially reluctant, the observer found their skepticism melting away, influenced by the sights, sounds, and scents of the market. The aroma of mulled wine and doughnuts, combined with Christmas carols and twinkling lights, proved irresistible. A chance encounter with an acquaintance working at one of the stalls further solidified the positive impression. “It’s very nice to stand here, everyone is smiling and it doesn’t seem like people are notably stressed either,” the acquaintance remarked.
Leaving the market, the observer reflected on their initial reservations. Perhaps embracing the Christmas spirit a little earlier isn’t so bad after all, especially with only one month remaining until the big day. “Hey, hey, now it’s Christmas again…”
