Before this year, I was unaware of these wonderful places called Christmas markets. Usually open from late November through the end of December or January, they are places to buy handmade crafts, eat traditional food and do other fun winter activities. They are present all over the world and a great way to celebrate the holiday spirit. Although Christmas is almost here, you can always start planning for next year! Here are ten of the most popular and unique Christmas markets in the world:

1. Bonn, Germany

Bonn Christmas markets boast a 280 square meter ice skating rink that is perfect for a break from shopping. Classic live symphonies set the mood for the entire market by playing softly in the background.

2. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg's Christkindelsmärik, meaning " the market of the infant Jesus", is one of the largest in Europe. Over 300 stall makers sell their goods, which include Alsatian Christmas decorations and traditional foods, to locals and tourists.

3. Chicago, Illinois, USA

Started in 1996, the Chicago Christmas market is the largest German-style Christmas market outside of Germany. Modeled after the markets in Nuremberg, Germany, this market is the most popular in the United States.

4. Dresden, Germany

In 1434, the Dresden Striezelmarkt first began. The name is derived from the word translated as "Christmas cake", which is present at the markets in abundance.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

There are two main locations of the markets in Prague: Old Town Square and Wenceslas. They are only a five minute walk from each other, so why not go to both? Old Town is notable for having a place to pet animals including goats and donkeys as well as a large nativity scene.

5. Paris, France

There are nine locations of markets around Paris, each with slightly different themes, that make up the Paris Christmas markets. If you are looking for something unique, there is a Japanese craft fair outside the Louvre during this time.

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest Christmas markets are one of the only markets open on Christmas day. Vörösmarty Square, the plaza in the heart of the city, stages performances of folk, jazz, blues, and other dances and performances every weekday while people shop in the market.

7. Manchester, England

This gigantic Christmas market hosts over 350 stall makers throughout the city. Manchester markets are award-winning and even have a two story indoor beer house

for when you need a break and a cold brew.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark

Staged in the Tivoli gardens, Copenhagen offers an incredibly unique Christmas market experience. After dark, there are three separate light shows lasting about five minutes each that show throughout the night.

9. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich's main station is one of the seven locations of Christmas markets in the city. Not only is this the largest covered market in Europe, but this location is also special because of the tree covered in 5,000 Swarovski crystal ornaments that light up the station.

10. Bath, England

Mulled wine and minced pies are abundant at the Bath Christmas markets. in this beautiful city, Bath offers unique trinkets not only from the country but also locally. 80 percent of stall makers are from the Bath and surrounding areas.

Happy shopping!