6 Ways To Celebrate Christmas In Bergen Norway

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and celebrating it in Bergen, Norway can be a truly unforgettable experience. Bergen, with its picturesque snow-covered mountains, twinkling lights, and cozy atmosphere, is the perfect setting to get into the holiday spirit. In this article, we will explore six ways to celebrate Christmas in Bergen, Norway.

1. Visit the Bergen Christmas Market

The Bergen Christmas Market, or Julemarked in Norwegian, is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. Located in the heart of the city, the market offers a wide range of festive goods, including handmade crafts, local food, and drinks. You can find unique gifts, try traditional Norwegian cuisine, and soak up the holiday atmosphere. The market usually takes place in late November and early December.

What to Expect at the Bergen Christmas Market

• Over 80 stalls selling handmade crafts, local food, and drinks
• Traditional Norwegian cuisine, such as gløgg (mulled wine) and skillingsboller (sweet buns)
• Unique gifts and souvenirs
• Festive atmosphere with live music and decorations

2. Take a Christmas Lights Tour

Bergen is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with thousands of twinkling lights adorning the city's buildings, streets, and parks. Take a guided Christmas lights tour to explore the city's most beautifully decorated areas, including the Bryggen Wharf, the Fish Market, and the Løvstakken neighborhood. The tour usually takes place in the evening, and you can enjoy the lights while sipping hot chocolate or gløgg.

What to Expect on a Christmas Lights Tour

• Guided tour of Bergen's most beautifully decorated areas
• Thousands of twinkling lights adorning the city's buildings, streets, and parks
• Hot chocolate or gløgg to keep you warm and cozy
• Festive atmosphere and holiday cheer

3. Go Skiing or Snowboarding at the Ulriken Ski Resort

If you're looking for some adventure and excitement during the holiday season, head to the Ulriken Ski Resort, located just a few kilometers from Bergen's city center. The resort offers a range of slopes for all levels, from beginner to expert, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding fjords. Don't forget to try some traditional Norwegian skiing food, such as kjøttkaker (meatballs) and raspeball (potato dumplings).

What to Expect at the Ulriken Ski Resort

• Range of slopes for all levels, from beginner to expert
• Breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding fjords
• Traditional Norwegian skiing food, such as kjøttkaker and raspeball
• Rental equipment and ski lessons available

4. Attend a Christmas Concert or Show

Bergen has a rich cultural scene, and during the holiday season, the city hosts a range of Christmas concerts and shows. From classical music performances to festive theater productions, there's something for everyone. Check out the schedule at the Grieghallen concert hall or the Bergen Theater to see what's on offer.

What to Expect at a Christmas Concert or Show

• Range of performances, from classical music to festive theater productions
• Festive atmosphere and holiday cheer
• Opportunity to see local and international artists perform
• Perfect way to get into the holiday spirit

5. Take a Christmas Cooking Class

If you're looking for a unique and delicious way to celebrate Christmas in Bergen, take a Christmas cooking class. Learn how to make traditional Norwegian dishes, such as lutefisk (dried and salted whitefish) and pinnekjøtt (lamb or mutton ribs), and enjoy the fruits of your labor over a festive dinner.

What to Expect at a Christmas Cooking Class

• Learn how to make traditional Norwegian dishes
• Hands-on cooking experience with a local chef
• Festive atmosphere and holiday cheer
• Opportunity to taste and enjoy traditional Norwegian cuisine

6. Go on a Snowshoeing or Winter Hiking Trip

If you're looking for some adventure and exercise during the holiday season, go on a snowshoeing or winter hiking trip in the beautiful mountains surrounding Bergen. Explore the snow-covered trails, enjoy breathtaking views, and spot local wildlife, such as reindeer and snow owls.

What to Expect on a Snowshoeing or Winter Hiking Trip

• Explore the snow-covered trails and mountains surrounding Bergen
• Breathtaking views and opportunities to spot local wildlife
• Chance to experience the beauty of Norwegian nature in winter
• Guided tour with a local guide and equipment rental available

We hope this article has given you some ideas and inspiration for celebrating Christmas in Bergen, Norway. Whether you're interested in trying traditional Norwegian cuisine, exploring the city's festive atmosphere, or enjoying the beautiful winter landscapes, there's something for everyone in this magical city.