There is a long history of Christmas markets, dating to the Middle Ages. It has been documented that in parts of the former Roman Empire, as far back as 1296, shopkeepers were given permission by the Emperor to hold markets. This allowed the townspeople to stock up on local produce that would see them through the cold winter months. Over time, families began to partake by selling an array of festive items, sparking the Century-old Christmas Markets traditions we enjoy today.