Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Michael the Brave Square

The Craiova Christmas Market at Michael the Brave Square is one of Romania's most celebrated holiday events, recognized by European Best Destinations as among the finest Christmas markets on the continent — placing 6th in 2021, 3rd in 2022, and 2nd in 2023. Spreading across six themed zones throughout the city center, the market transforms Craiova into a winter wonderland illuminated by over two million lights. The heart of the celebration is Michael the Brave Square (Piața Mihai Viteazul), themed as 'Candy Land,' where Santa's Flying Sleigh — the tallest of its kind in Southeastern Europe — soars overhead each evening from 6:30 PM with special effects, strobes, artificial snow, and ballet dancers from the Romanian Opera Craiova. The ice rink in the square hosts enchanting Nutcracker ballet performances. Beyond the main square, visitors can explore Brothers Buzești Square for traditional Romanian crafts, carols, and folk cuisine; Shakespeare Square for a children's wonderland with carousels, VR films, and a panoramic Ferris wheel; the Doljana zone for festive stalls; Theodor Aman Street for international street food; and English Park for giant fairy-tale figures and games. The market features uniquely hand-painted gingerbread-style chalets, live concerts on weekends with nationally known artists, and a rich program of folk music, opera performances, and children's theater. Operating daily from mid-November through early January — with hours extended to January 11 in 2025/26 due to popular demand — the Craiova Christmas Market is an unmissable festive destination in southern Romania. Plan to arrive at dusk to catch the Flying Sleigh show at its most magical.