Unique gifts, festive cheer: Local Christmas markets
To support local businesses, more and more Moldovan people are choosing to do their Christmas shopping at markets featuring local products.
From handmade decorations and unique toys to traditional products and seasonal delicacies, visitors can find a wide range of items at the vendors' stalls. Some shoppers have said they prefer to give Christmas gifts they'd themselves enjoy receiving.
"I want to support our local businesses. It's great that we can find gifts for both New Year's Eve and Christmas here. I was particularly drawn to the nut producers. Their nut liqueur and jams look delicious. You should give gifts you'd like to receive yourself," said one shopper.
"I bought some high-quality, natural soap as a gift for my relatives in Sweden. It's the perfect gift," said another.
"I came for gifts, as New Year's is coming. For acquaintances, for friends," said a third shopper.
"When it comes to gifts, I choose something symbolic. A pleasant winter symbol so that both we and others can feel the holiday spirit," shoppers said.
To attract more customers, local producers have packaged their products in festive winter style. Some have put chocolate and biscuits shaped like Christmas trees on sale:
"Every year we come up with something new, something sweet, something natural, chocolates. This year we have a handmade Christmas tree made of natural chocolate and dried fruit. Prices start at 30 lei and go up to 300," said one producer.
"We started preparations on December 1st, and sales have also started. In our boxes, we have honey, a candle, and a honey spoon. The price of the sets starts at 180 lei and can go up to 1000 lei for a larger basket," said another.
"I have sewn festive purses from a combination of polymer material and artificial leather. Certain colors are fashionable for these holidays, and we have chosen prints that are most in demand on the market. We also sew themed tablecloths," said a third.
The next market in the spirit of the winter holidays will take place next weekend in the city center.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
