Christmas market season is approaching, but beyond Europe’s best-known festive destinations, some of the continent’s most atmospheric celebrations can be found further north. Across Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, Christmas markets take over historic squares, open-air museums and even forests, bringing together local crafts, Nordic design, seasonal food and traditions that have been celebrated for generations. For travellers looking for something a little different this winter, Nordic travel specialist Off The Map Travel has selected six Christmas markets worth putting on the radar for 2026, from Stockholm’s century-old Skansen market to Bergen’s enormous gingerbread city.

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria and one of Europe’s oldest cities, will once again embrace the magic of Christmas with Sofia Christmas Fest 2026. From 20 November to 28 December, the festival will return for its fifth consecutive year to the park in front of the National Palace of Culture (NDK), an iconic convention and cultural centre located in the heart of the city.

As someone who grew up spellbound by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, I've perhaps been guilty of harbouring an idealised view of industrial-scale production lines.

Former ESPN reporter and Fox News personality Britt McHenry has stepped down from her role as press adviser for the US Department of State. The development comes after viral videos appeared to show her throwing a drink at someone (after one was allegedly thrown at her) during an altercation in the stands at an NBA game. Page Six reported that McHenry was “forced to resign” on Thursday, a day after the incident at the Washington Wizards’ home opener against the Milwaukee Bucks at Capital One...