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Christmas. A time of grey skies and interminable drizzle, of endless advertisements on TV featuring struggling actors in Santa outfits, and a competition on every high street in Britain for the gaudiest 'Xmas Sales' sign and most unconvincing plastic Christmas tree. As the countdown towards December the 25th continues and beleaguered mothers are forced to spend their days hunting down bargains at Lakeside and stockpiling the fridge for their little brats, you have to wonder is there any magic left in Christmas or has it been reduced to a souless exercise in commercialism...
Whatever you feel about Christmas back home however, you will find the magic of Christmas is very much alive all across Poland. Here in the heart of Central Europe a combination of revered traditions and religious fervour - topped off with a liberal smattering of crisp white snow - means the festive season maintains the romance and joy fitting for the arrival of the Son of God - and the hope for peace for all men on earth. Even hardened atheists and cynics are sure to be charmed by the fine spirit with which Catholic Poland celebrates this festival where it still maintains its religious significance. 
Of course we all know that Baby Jesus was brought presents of gold, frankincense and myrrh by the Three Kings, plus the odd lamb by kindly shepherds, and thus the great tradition of giving gifts to loved ones during this time was born. If you're in Wroclaw this December then don't miss the chance to do your own Christmas shopping at the markets which open up in the build up to the festive season.
The centre of the action has moved this year from Swidnicka street to the grounds of the Centennial Hall in the East of the city. Underneath the shadow of this surreal symbol of the city will spring dozens of shacks and stalls where hawkers and traders will tout their many and varied fare. Everything from exotic soaps and toiletries to wicker decorations, leather and woollen goods, and of course Christmas sweets, decorations and souvenirs will be on sale. It's a great place to find a few interesting stocking fillers and soak up the festive atmosphere. And if you feel your hands start to get cold as you finger the goods on display, then clasp them around a hot mug of grzaniec (Polish mulled wine) which will definitely help stave off the frostbite!
If, in the words of Shania Twain, that don't impress you much, then perhaps the tallest Christmas tree in Europe (well technically a needle, but it's got Christmas lights so what the hell!), a lovely display of nativity scenes and a fantastic outdoor ice-rink will get you in the mood.
And if that still isn't enough to drag you out into the cold, then a Christmas Market will take place in the warmer environs of Galeria Dominikanska (pl. Dominikanski) - one Wroclaw's premier shopping malls. Still stuck for ideas for Christmas gifts after all that? Time to check out Wroclaw Life's directory of shops and stores. | | | |