(Photo courtesy of christkindlmarket.com)
The Christkindlmarket has become a Chicago tradition, and every year more than one million visitors come for the free holiday entertainment, unique shopping, and typical German food and drinks. This year marks the 22nd year of this popular and beloved event, which runs from November 16 through Christmas Eve. Admission is free.
The Christkindlmarket Chicago is inspired by the original 1500s Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, which continues as a cherished German and European tradition. Christkindlmarket.com says, “The vendors and vendor wares at [this event] reflect the high quality and craftsmanship one finds at German Christmas markets. The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic and renowned outdoor winter holiday market in the United States, and is a magical celebration of culture, community, and holiday cheer.”
You can find the Christkindlmarket at three Chicagoland locations: the original site in the Chicago Loop, the Park at Wrigley, and the Naper Settlement in Naperville.