Winter market on Teuchelweiherplatz

On Teuchelweiherplatz, a short walk from Winterthur's old town, more than 50 decorated huts gather under a canopy of lights for the Winterthurer Wintermarkt. Design and handicraft stalls sell gifts, food vendors from near and far cook fresh on the spot, and there are mulled wine, apéro and cocktail bars to warm up at. You can try candle-dipping every day too.

The Fondue Chalet has an open fire and a bar, so reserve a table ahead. At the Slalom Bar, DJs play dance and disco music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights until midnight. Groups can now also book apéro evenings in sheltered spots.

There's a programme for all ages: swing and choir concerts, stilt walkers and fire shows on selected evenings, fairy tales and face painting in the children's corner, St. Nicholas on 6 December and a board-game night. On three weekends a Mini-Markt adds small regional sellers.

Good to know: payment at the market's own huts, bars and food stands is cashless only. Half the square is gravel, which is harder going for wheelchairs; the chalet and bar have ramps and there's an accessible toilet. Getting there: walk from the old town, or park in the Parkhaus Teuchelweiher, entrance on Zeughausstrasse.