Where Holidays in Chicago Mix International Flair with Local Charm
Ask around: The Christkindlmarket is just as much of a traditional German/American holiday market as it is a Chicago tradition. The market is the largest open-air Christmas festival in the city, and has become a major attraction among locals and visitors alike. The 17th Annual Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza downtown Chicago is now open for your seasonal perusing. And there is plenty to peruse.
Admission to the market is always free, so stop by now through Dec. 24 to get a taste of Christkindlmarket. It’s open Sunday-Thursday, 11am-8pm and Friday and Saturday, 11am-9pm. Here’s what you’ll get:
You’ll experience your fair share of activities and special events, such as visits from Santa, foreign language education (in German, of course), Kinder Korner for kids, The Annual Children’s Lantern Parade and plenty more. We know you’ve heard of Santa, but what about the Christkind? She’s a fairy-like being with curly blonde hair beneath a large crown, and dressed in a gold and white robe. Move over Santa: She, in some German regions, is the bearer of gifts. She’s a Christkindlmarket staple.
And, of course, there is the marketplace. Vendors from Germany, Ukraine, Poland, and more in the region plus around the US have tents and stands filled with homemade crafts and trinkets perfect for holiday gifts. While shopping, you’ll want to grab some of the delicious treats the market famously offers. Try traditional German dishes, sweet and savory!
Come on by this holiday season. The Christkindlmarket is within easy walking distance from our downtown locations. It’s hard to miss; look for the huge, famous holiday tree sparkling in the center of Daley Plaza. Willkommen!