Christmas Market or Carnival?--Grand Parade, Cork

The advertised Christmas market of Cork is reminiscent of a carnival: carnival rides, long lines, and food vendors. It's nothing like I had imagined when I observed the set-up of the small wooden booths and decoration preparations in Brussels. Were is the Christmas market with the paper star lanterns, the antique-looking ornaments and the roasted chestnuts? Despite my initial disappointment--maybe next year, I'll have to visit Germany--the atmosphere of the city feels homely. The festival draws residents from neighboring towns, and I can feel the sense of community.