site.btaBiggest Curtain of Christmas Lights Shines in Bucharest

The biggest curtain of Christmas lights, 100 metres long, descends over Drumul Taberei Park in Bucharest's Sector 6. The decoration is the work of an international company that created decorations for Rockefeller Center in New York and is part of the West Side Christmas Market in the Romanian capital. The West Side Christmas Market is being held for the first time this year. 

"We implemented an idea that has been around for eight years. To create a magical place where the spirit of the winter holidays comes alive and where a team of skillful elves prepares Christmas. We want the capital of Romania to become a traditional destination during the winter holidays," the project organizers said. 

100,000 people have visited the fair in the first four days after its opening, organisers said. A 33-metre-high Ferris wheel and a 660-square-metre ice rink are just some of the attractions. One hour on the ice costs 20 lei (BGN 8), 25 lei (BGN 10) is the ticket for the Ferris wheel. 

The food stalls also offer Romanian cheeses and sausages, Belgian fries, Moldovan and even Cuban delicacies.

Admission is free and visitors can shop from 60 waxwork houses, handmade jewellery and wreaths, and sugar treats. There is a special mailbox for children to leave letters for Santa, and a raffle will be held on Christmas Eve.

"West Side Christmas Market" is open every day until December 27 between 12:00 and 23:00. Entry is free of charge.