Christmas markets in Romania

Craiova Christmas Market 2026

City centre: Piața Mihai Viteazul and strada Unirii, Piața William Shakespeare, Piața Frații Buzești, the Doljana area, Piața Ierusalim and strada Theodor Aman

Craiova holds one of the most extensive Christmas markets in the country, spread across six squares and streets in the centre. The 2026 edition's theme is "The Land of the Elves".

13 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Craiova, Dolj County
229 km from Sibiu, about 4 hours

Confirmed by the organiser The dates are published by Craiova City Hall in the registration announcement and in the participation criteria. 2025 edition: Originally scheduled to run until 4 January, extended by City Hall until 11 January.

What to expect

  • The edition's theme: "The Land of the Elves", with the elves' workshop maze and Santa's flying sleigh above a castle (2026)
  • A new tree in Piața Mihai Viteazul, with a little gift train running through it, and "Santa's Land" next to the National Theatre (2026)
  • Weekend performances on the tree-shaped stage in Piața Frații Buzești, with the Romanian Opera Craiova, the Oltenia Philharmonic and the Colibri Theatre (2026)
  • More than two million fairy lights and at least 550 Christmas trees in the decorations (2026)

Opening hours and entry

2026, mandatory stall opening hours set by City Hall: Monday–Thursday 13:00–21:00, Friday–Sunday 10:00–22:00. In 2025: Monday–Thursday 13:00–22:00, at weekends 10:00–23:00.

Free entry (stated for the 2025 edition); attractions are paid for separately.

Practical information

If you are coming by car: from 15 October 2026 to 8 January 2027, City Hall closes Calea Unirii to traffic between strada Mihai Viteazul and strada Alexandru Ioan Cuza / Popa Șapcă, and traffic is diverted onto the surrounding streets.

Organiser

Craiova City Hall (Image Department). Website: primariacraiova.ro

From Craiova to Sibiu

Craiova Sibiu Christmas Market. Tap a pin to navigate.

Combine your visit with Sibiu

Craiova and Sibiu are linked by the Olt Valley, one of the most beautiful roads in the country, especially in winter. The two markets run over exactly the same period, 13 November 2026 – 3 January 2027, so you can see both cities at Christmas on any weekend of the season.

Public information compiled by the Sibiu Christmas Market team from official sources and the press, checked on 31 October 2026. Organisers may change dates and opening hours, so check their website before you travel. Are you an organiser and spotted a mistake? Write to us at [email protected].

More Christmas markets in Romania