Top 5 U.S. Christmas Markets That Compete with Europe's Best
Top 5 U.S. Christmas Markets That Compete with Europe's Best.
Christmas markets have been a holiday staple in Europe since the 1400s, starting in Germany, and they've made their way to the U.S. too. Now, you can find these festive markets filled with handmade crafts, ornaments, and all sorts of holiday decorations.
Christmas markets have been a cherished part of holiday celebrations across Europe for ages, with their roots going back to Germany in 1434. They began as open-air winter markets focused on selling meat, but over time, they transformed to feature seasonal goodies, decorations, and crafts.
Nowadays, these vibrant European Christmas markets are lively events set in historic squares, sparkling with colorful lights, beautifully decorated trees, live music, Ferris wheels, mulled wine, delicious homemade food, and unique artisan products. From the newer Glasgow Winterfest in Scotland to Germany’s Dresden Striezelmarkt, which is the oldest Christmas market in the world dating back to the 1400s, Europe’s markets set a high standard.
German immigrants started arriving in the U.S. in the late 20th century, and they brought along their beloved Christmas market tradition. These festive markets, which pay homage to their German roots, have become a key part of holiday celebrations across the nation.
You can find vendors dishing out delicious treats like homemade cookies, rich chocolates, and tasty jams, along with various liqueurs and drinks. Plus, the markets are filled with unique handicrafts, ornaments, holiday decorations, games, and activities, featuring artisans like glassblowers, artists, and potters.
Check out these five Christmas markets in the U.S. that you absolutely have to see!
- Carmel Christkindlmarkt in Carmel, Indiana,
The aim of Carmel Christkindlmarkt is to immerse the community in German culture and Christmas traditions with a truly enchanting holiday experience. Each year, the market features live demonstrations by German artisans, a variety of traditional foods and drinks, and unique gifts available from charming wooden stalls.
There's also a beautiful outdoor ice rink and a traditional Glühwein Pyramid, which is the first of its kind in the U.S. This year, they're introducing Feuerzangenbowle, a fun flaming cocktail that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family in a cozy setting. Maria Adele Rosenfeld, the president and CEO, emphasizes that what makes the Carmel Christkindlmarkt special is their dedication to providing the most authentic experience since it started in 2017. This attention to detail not only creates a warm, festive atmosphere but also allows visitors to enjoy a genuine cultural experience without leaving the country.
Open through December 24.
Closed on Monday & Tuesday.
Wednesday & Thursday: 4 to 9 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: noon to 9 p.m.
Special holiday hours:
Monday & Tuesday, December 16-17: 4 to 9 p.m.
Monday, December 23: noon to 9 p.m.
Tuesday, December 24: noon to 4 p.m.
- Christkindlmarkt, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
The Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, PA, inspired by German traditions, is a fantastic family-friendly event that captures the spirit of the holiday season in the official ‘Christmas City.’ With 180 vendors, including artisans and retailers like the popular Käthe Wohlfahrt, you can find unique handmade ornaments, nutcrackers, and collectibles imported from Germany. Besides shopping, there are plenty of hands-on craft activities for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t miss out on delicious seasonal treats like warm strudel, hot poutine, and potato pancakes, along with festive drinks. “The holiday season in Christmas City is truly special,” says Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO of ArtsQuest. “Families from all over come to soak in the sights and sounds of the season.” Christkindlmarkt is brought to you by ArtsQuest and sponsored by Univest Financial.
December 5-8,
December 12-15,
December 19-22,
Thursday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Fridays from 5-8 p.m. admission is free.
- Denver Christkindlmarket, Denver, Colorado
The Denver Christkindlmarket is a genuine German-style holiday market that features a mix of local and European artisans and food vendors, along with a bunch of enchanting holiday activities. Right in the heart of Denver, visitors can wander through a quaint European village square, check out charming wooden stalls from local and international sellers, and sip on some authentic Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) while soaking in the festive tunes playing throughout the market.
With over 40 vendors offering unique handmade gifts, you’re sure to find something special. “The Denver Christkindlmarket has become a cherished holiday tradition over the past 24 years,” shares Samantha Seems, Executive Director & Board Secretary. “Together with the Mile High Tree and the Civic Center Conservancy, we’ve turned downtown Denver into a magical winter wonderland that everyone can enjoy for free.”
To December 23 in Denver's Civic Center Park
Regular Hours
Sunday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Festival Hall Hours
Thursday - Saturday: Open until 10 p.m.
Exceptions
Final week (12/15 - 12/23) 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- German Christmas Market Of New Jersey, Augusta, New Jersey
Augusta, a charming little mountain town perfect for families, hosts New Jersey's biggest annual Christmas market—the German Christmas Market. This festive event takes place at the Sussex County Fairgrounds from December 6-8 and is filled with twinkling lights, cheerful holiday tunes, and a beautiful array of Christmas trees. You'll find delicious traditional foods and local vendors showcasing their crafts to make your holiday season even brighter.
Since its inception in 2003, the market committee has donated an impressive $620,000 to charities in Sussex County. The German Christmas Market of NJ Foundation Inc started back in 2001 when a small group of German-American volunteers wanted to bring a slice of authentic German holiday spirit to Sparta, NJ.
Friday, December 6, 2024, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday, December 8, 2024, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Christkindlmarket Chicago, Aurora, Illinois
Christkindlmarket has a spot in Aurora and takes its inspiration from the 16th-century Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany. Experience the magic and history of the famous Christkindlmarket Chicago with the Culture & Cheer Tour. Every weekend from 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m., you can join a German-speaking team member for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Daley Plaza before the market opens up to everyone. You can also team up with talented artisans from Ikonic Glass to create your own beautiful ornament using glass blowing techniques.
There are plenty of shapes to choose from, including the beloved German-American pickle ornament. Plus, you can savor specialty wine pairings alongside delicious treats like chocolates and sausages. “Each year, the Christkindlmarket turns downtown Chicago into a festive wonderland, drawing in both loyal locals and visitors from all over the world,” shares Leila Schmidt, Senior Manager of Marketing & Intercultural Communication at German American Events, LLC.
“In 2023, we were excited to welcome a record 2 million guests across our three locations in the Chicago area, with attendees coming from 72 different countries to enjoy this cherished tradition.”
Through December 24
Sundays through Thursdays: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Christmas Eve 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Christmas markets offer a magical holiday experience, bringing festive cheer and tradition to life. Whether you're enjoying delicious seasonal treats, discovering unique handmade gifts, or soaking in the joyful atmosphere, these markets create lasting memories for all ages. From the charming Carmel Christkindlmarkt to the iconic Christkindlmarket in Chicago, each market highlights the warmth of the holiday season through cultural displays and joyful celebrations.
These markets not only support local artisans and businesses but also bring communities together in a shared spirit of joy and togetherness. Don’t miss out on experiencing the festive magic of Christmas markets this year!
