Every winter, many travelers’ thoughts turn to Europe and the traditional Christmas Markets that dot the map from Finland to the Mediterranean, and from the Baltics to the British Isles. But where is the American Christkindl Market?
An American Christkindl Market
For years now, many American cities have been bringing a little bit of Europe home for the holidays. While many European markets are nestled into city centers, their American cousins have a modern metropolis as a backdrop. Here, you can explore city markets filled with tradition and festive holiday cheer – without the cost of transatlantic air fare.
While there are many holiday celebrations and markets around the country, these are our favorite traditional Christmas Markets. They are also some of the country’s largest and, best of all, they all have the very affordable admission price of free! But don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spend on fun gifts and delicious food!
Because you’re probably going to have to travel to attend some of these markets, we’ve included information on nearby hotels. And just in case you discover there is such a thing as too much Christmas Market, we’ve included some other notable attractions in each city. (Except for New York City, which has far too many options to explore here!)
Grab that warm mug of Glühwein, and let’s explore An American Christkindl Market!
Updated August 2024.
Arlington (Dallas-Fort Worth)
Everything IS bigger in Texas: DFW hosts the largest Holiday Market in the Southwest. (Photo: Texas Christkindl Market)
Get a Texas-sized helping of holiday cheer this year at the Texas Christkindl Market! Since its inception, the Texas Christkindl Market has been one of the few American pop-up locations for Kathe Wohlfahrt stores, making it a destination for collectors. The Market also features a Kinder Club, with activities for the small ones, along with live entertainment, and artists and vendors from across the country. The festivities take place daily in the North Plaza of Globe Life Field, just outside of the Texas Live restaurant and entertainment complex. (Which means you have someplace close to warm up when those famous Texas ice storms roll in!)
2024 Dates: Open weekends from 22 November through 23 December
Website: Texas Christkindl Market
Nearby Attractions: AT&T Stadium, Texas Live!, Arlington Esports Stadium and Six Flags over Texas
Closest Hotels: Live! by Loews is the on-site hotel for events in Arlington’s sports/entertainment district. The Sheraton Arlington Hotel is within walking distance.
Atlanta
Ready for a southern Christkindl Market? Atlanta celebrates the holidays at two bustling locations: the Buckhead Village District and the Galleria on the Park. While it may be as Southern as it gets, it is still has very German roots, complete with authentic German food and beverages, seasonal sweets, and artisan gifts. Vendor and entertainment schedules are still being developed, but whichever market you visit, you’ll be immersed in enchanting old-world charm mixed with Atlanta’s modern energy.
Galleria on the Park 2024 Dates: Open Thursday through Sunday 29 November through 24 December
Location:Galleria district near the intersection of Interstates 75 and 285.
Website: Atlanta Christkindl Market
Buckhead Village 2024 Dates: Open daily 22 November through 24 December, Closed Thanksgiving Day
Location: Buckhead Village District at Bolling Way and, you guessed it, Peachtree Road
Website: Atlanta Christkindl Market
Nearby Attractions: Buckhead Village District is a destination in itself, with high end shopping and establishments. Lenox Square is just a mile-and-a-half away on Peachtree Road. It’s a ten-minute drive to the Atlanta Botanical Garden or High Museum of Art. A little further, the Martin Luther King Jr National Historical Park is just under 10 miles away.
Closest Hotels: There are dozens of great hotels in the Buckhead area. Two of the closest to Atlanta Christkindl Market are the St. Regis Atlanta, and our favorite in Buckhead, the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel.
Chicago
A little holiday magic transforms Daley Plaza into Chicago’s own North Pole.
(Photo: Christkindlmarket Chicago)
Chicagoland’s own Christmas Market welcomed two million guests in 2023 across three locations! This year, Winterland in Wrigleyville is out, but Christkindlmarket Chicago welcomes revelers to Daley Plaza to wander amongst the shops and explore vendors’ products from all around the world. There is a huge variety of live entertainment throughout each week, and the beloved Christkindlemarket Kinder Club returns. The Kinder Club educates young visitors about German traditions and cultural differences with fun events and activities.
The Christkindlemarket’s satellite location at RiverEdge Park in Aurora does return. Wondering if you need to visit both locations? Beside the fact that you can never visit too many Christmas Markets, one of the few Kathe Wohlfart markets in the USA is usually at the Aurora Christkindlmarket this year. However, vendor details are still being finalized. Like all Chicago locations, there is a beer hall, and a Sweets Castle, too! The Aurora location is only open Thursdays through Sundays.
2024 Dates: Open daily from 22 November through 24 December
Website: Christkindlmarkt Chicago
Nearby Attractions: Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, Navy Pier
Closest Hotel: The Cambria Hotel & Suites Chicago Magnificent Mile is almost literally across the street from the Daley Plaza market, though almost any hotel inside the Loop would be in walking distance.
Aurora Christkindlemarket
2023 Dates: Thursday through Sunday from 22 November through 24 December
Denver
Experience a Rocky Mountain Christmas with holiday shopping in the Mile High City. (Photo: Christkindl Market Denver)
Denver’s Authentic Christkindlmarket has won the Denver A-List Award for Best Festival for every one of the more than 20 years it’s been open. It’s easy to see why! The annual Market offers a wintery dose of Gemuetlichkeit: fun, festivities, and holiday cheer, complete with food, entertainment, and plenty of “shopportunities.” Exploring the market, with gifts and goods from across Europe and Colorado, is a highlight of the season. Then there’s the food, with everything from gourmet German dishes to sweets and treats, and even Kinderpunsch, a non-alcoholic Glüwein, for the kids.
2024 Dates: 22 November through 23 December
Location: Civic Center Park on 14th Avenue, between Bannock and Broadway in the Capital Hill neighborhood.
Website: Christkindl Market Denver
Nearby Attractions: Denver’s Christkindlmarket is adjacent to the Colorado State Capital, and across the street from the Denver Art Museum. The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, and the History Colorado Center are also nearby. The “Do Not Miss” Money Museum at the Federal Reserve is a 15 minute walk away.
Closest Hotels: Hilton’s Curio Collection Art Hotel Denver is the closest hotel to the Christkindl Market. Sheraton Denver Downtown is also about two blocks away.
New York, New York
The city so nice they named it twice is home to at least four great holiday markets that have become local traditions and international attractions. You’ll find the markets sprinkled amongst Manhattan’s iconic holiday sights like the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center, window displays on 5th Avenue, and the Radio City Rockettes.
The Holiday Market at Union Square is one of the city’s largest.
Union Square Holiday Market
The Union Square Holiday Market was named the Best in America in 2023 and, when you go, it’s easy to see why. Begun in 1994, the Union Square Holiday Market has become a holiday institution in the Big Apple, drawing more than a million visitors every year with the promise of unique gifts, festive foods, and holiday cheer. Grab a warm beverage and some tasty treats to enjoy as you stroll among the rows of candy-cane striped tents filled with decorations of every description, and more gift ideas than you can imagine. Some are imported from around the world, others crafted by the very merchant you’re talking to, ranging from home beer brewing kits to handmade scarves and accessories to … well, with 185 vendors, there is too much to list here! Look for vendors with the Artisan’s Pledge, meaning goods are 100% handmade in the USA, organic-certified, Fairtrade-certified, or recycled, reused, or vintage items.
2024 Dates: 14 November to 23 December
Website: Union Square Holiday Market” rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”>Union Square Holiday Market
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Nearby at historic Central Park, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market has earned a reputation as one of the most elegant and beautiful places for holiday shopping. Within it’s striped stalls are gourmet bites from around the world, and handmade gifts by some of the city’s finest designers and artisans, all in one of the most iconic New York settings: Winter in Central Park. Need more? The market is just across the street from even more incredible shopping at Time Warner Center and the Shops at Columbus Circle. One could easily knock out all of their holiday shopping, get an eyeful of people-watching, and see some of the city’s best decorations, and all in one place. (Holiday Under the Stars features a dozen 14-foot stars hanging from the ceiling of Time Warner Center’s 150-foot Great Room). You’ll find vendors displaying the Artisan’s Pledge here, too.
2024 Dates: 3 to 31 December
Website: Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
Fancy a stroll through a European-style open air market? The Winter Village at Bryant Park is home to the Holiday Shops at Bryant Park starting on Halloween. The Holiday Shops feature more than 170 shopping kiosks and food vendors offering exquisite gifts including local foods, distinctive apparel and jewelry, and decorative arts from international artisans. Take a break from shopping at the free, 17,000-square-foot ice-skating rink (skate rentals are $20). Or grab a pint and a meal, and warm your bones, in the food hall.
2024 Dates: 25 October to 5 January
Location: Bryant Park on Sixth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets.
Website: Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
NEW NYC Markets
The Urban Space Markets collective, which organizes those three popular markets, is introducing two new markets this year that are sure to be big hits! One is right inside the flagship Macy’s at Herald Square, and the other is right outside of Macy’s! They’re promising a “modern Miracle on 34th Street.” Check their sites for hours and directions:
The Holiday Fair at Grand Central is delightful…and indoors! (Photo: MTA/Patrick Cashin)
Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
“Meet me at the clock” has been a common invitation in New York for generations. During the holidays, that’s where you’ll meet the city’s longest-running indoor holiday markets, the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair. Every year, the market takes over half of the historic Vanderbilt Hall with artwork, clothing and accessories, toys, and home goods. If you’re arriving in New York by train, this is a great first stop for holiday spirit. Don’t miss the towering, bejeweled Christmas Tree, and the New York Transit Museum’s Holiday Train Show in the Transit Museum Gallery & Store. Perhaps best of all, this Christmas Market is indoors, so you can warm up after visiting some of the city’s other markets.
2024 Dates: 11 November through 24 December
Location:Grand Central Terminal on 42nd Street at Park Avenue, in Vanderbilt Hall
Website: Grand Central Terminal
All of these markets are centrally located in Manhattan. That means you can mix your Christmas market visits with all of the city’s sightseeing, fun, shows and shopping! See Hotels.com accommodations in Manhattan for some ideas on where to stay.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Lights Up the Night on Friday before Thanksgiving (Photo: PPG Holiday Market)
Pittsburgh puts on a holiday spectacular that rivals pretty much any display! Light Up Night kicks off the holidays with lights, trees, festivities, and fireworks! Then the Peoples Gas Holiday Market in Market Square takes over with outdoor holiday shopping in an illuminated Market Square. The Christmas Market is open seven days a week until Christmas Eve (except for Thanksgiving Day), featuring local artisans and vendors from around the world in charming wooden chalets. It’s become a Christmas Market worth traveling for: It was voted as the best in America by readers in USA Today’s Top 10!
2024 Dates: Light Up Night: 23 November
Peoples Gas Holiday Market: 22 November to 24 December
Location: Market Square, downtown Pittsburgh on Forbes Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Avenues
Website: Light Up Night Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown Pittsburgh Holidays
Nearby Attractions: The Pittsburgh Creche is the only authorized, full-sized replica of the Nativity Scene at St. Peter’s Bassilica. It is on display at the US Steel Tower from Light Up Night until the Epiphany (January 6th, 2021). Nearby, at Point State Park, are Fort Duquesne, Fort Pitt Blockhouse, and Fort Pitt Museum, at the confluence of the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela Rivers. The Andy Warhol Museum is just across the Allegheny (on the Andy Warhol Bridge) from the Downtown Cultural District. The famous Three Rivers Stadium (now Heinz Field) is nearby also.
Closest Hotels: Town Place by Bridgestreet and Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh Downtown are both within a block of PPG Place, and are convenient to downtown and the Three Rivers area.
Washington, DC
The Downtown Holiday Market takes over the F Street Sidewalk in Penn Quarter (Photo: DowntownDC BID)
Yes, we know: There’s already a lot to see and do in DC! Still, during the holidays, you can do a different sort of sightseeing at the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle! It’s a move from the market’s former home in Penn Quarter, to the 1500 block of 19th Street, NW. It’s a unique and festive shopping experience featuring more than 30 small business, reflecting Dupont Circle’s tradition of small businesses, including art galleries, restaurants, and mom & pop shops. Fabulous food and live entertainment make for a fun, festive atmosphere for the whole family.
2024 Dates: 22 November to 15 December
Location: 1500 block of 19th Street NW, DuPont Circle – at the intersection of 19th Street, P Street, Massachusetts and New Hampshire Avenues
Website: dcholidaymarket.net
Nearby Attractions: The Dupont Circle is just a mile from the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse across from the White House, and the National Mall.
Closest Hotels: While there are plenty of great hotels in DC, the luxurious Dupont Circle Hotel is literally across the street. Can’t beat a short walk during a Washington winter!
Your Turn
Where are your favorite holiday markets and festivals? Please let us know with a comment below, or link to your favorite holiday market blog post. Happy Holidays!
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Great to see the markets move stateside. Chicago looks really gorgeous and European.
The Chicago market (now plural!) have become an annual tradition! So much so, that we noticed it in a Hallmark Christmas movie! If that’s not a sign of holiday success, we don’t know what is! ?
Thanks for re-sharing this post! I’m glad some of these places are still holding these events virtually this year! I’m sure they never thought it was something they’d need to do, but I hope it is beneficial to them!
We are very glad to see at least some of the annual Christmas Markets pressing on this year, even if they have to go virtual. We can’t wait for next year’s update – hoping it’s back to being in-person fun across the country again!
Thanks for the great update on where you can celebrate. Most every year I go to the market in Chicago, now I know its virtual only so I’ll just look online!
We were saddened to hear that the Chicago Christmas Markets are virtual-only this year, but we get it! Better safe, especially during the holidays. Hopefully, it will be back next year, along with the markets in Wrigleyville and Milwaukee. Thanks for stopping by!
What a great round up! So good that some of these markets are going virtual. I hope that they are still successful. #WeekendWanderlust
Same here – if they can hold on for this year, we’re hopefully they can be back and bigger next year!
what an awesome post! Definitely need this when visiting the USA over Christmas – going to send to my friend who is doing just that! Do you have a vertical pin as would love to pin it?
Hi Tracy! Glad you like the post! We look forwarding to updating it every year – although it makes us want to take a cross country Christmas Market Road Trip! (Hey…there’s an idea!) When you go, we’ll be eager to hear which one(s) you visit, and how you like them! There is a Pinterest widget in the lower right corner. You can pin it from there. Meanwhile, we’re adding a vertical option for the Pinterest share button – we didn’t realize it wasn’t coming up, so thanks for the heads up! Also, thanks for reading, and for Pinning! Much appreciated.
Great post, I’ll be using this info for my visit to NYC in December! I’m planning to visit the Union Square market, but didn’t know about the one in Grand Central, and that sounds appealing especially if it’s cold. Also will be sure to look for the vendors with the Artisan’s Pledge! #feetdotravel
Thanks Cynthia! We loved Union Square and Columbus Circle markets, but getting in out of the cold at Grand Central was totally worth it. Plus, the whole station is just amazing. Have a fun trip!
New York would be my first choice! I so want to go there at Christmastime. Maybe next year . . . Your photo of the Chicago market is especially appealing.
Honestly, it’s our first choice, too! It is a fantastic city to wander through at Christmas, especially with so many Christmas Markets. We keep hearing about more to add to our list, so we hope we can keep this post growing every year! Thanks for reading, Sharon!
I had no idea there are so many beautiful (and authentic!) Christmas Markets in the US. The one in Chicago looks quite big and attractive. All these US cities have one thing in common though: they all have really cold winters and snow (most of the time). You can’t have an authentic Christmas market when it’s 78ºF outside.
You’re right – a Christmas Market in Palm Springs just wouldn’t be the same. 😉 We love these cold-weather markets, and keep learning about more popping up! Hopefully, we can keep this post growing every year. Thanks for reading, Anda!
I remember this post from last year thinking how many markets there were across the States, and now you have added even more! Wisconsin is definitely the one I want to visit … call me a saddo but after watching Love Actually year after year for over a decade, I neeeeeeed to visit Wisconsin and see the place which made Colin happy :D. Yes it’s my favourite Christmas movie OK, don’t judge!! #feetdotravel
Ha! Angie, you always give us a grin! Of all the places someone would NEED to see when they come to America, Wisconsin is not one we would have guessed. We totally get it, though! We’ve had our share of movie moments, so no judgment here! 🙂 Thanks for being you! And helloooo to Sy!
Remember reading this last year – glad you updated it and added some more options!
Hi Jessica (and Laurence!) – I think updating this has become our own holiday tradition. Trouble is, it makes us want to book tickets to ALL of these cities. Okay, maybe that’s not a bad thing… Thanks for reading – again! 🙂
What a wonderful post with beautiful photos and very inspiring to do a Christmas market trip in US. I have been only to two markets in US, one in New York and another one In Bush Garden called Christmas Town. This post is so wonderful, and I had not realised there are so many German inspired markets. I have been to German and a few other European market, would love to see the one in US. Thank you so much for this post. #theweeklypostcard.
Thanks Ushasita! We have been enjoying visiting and “researching” American Christmas Markets for a few years now. We’re really excited that there seem to be more of them every year, and they’re getting very popular! Thanks for your comment – much appreciated!
Great round up of all the Christmas Markets in the US. It’s good to know that the Christmas market tradition is alive and kicking on your side of the pond as well. Thanks for inspiring us all on #FarawayFiles
Thanks Clare – glad you liked it. Although we’re just a little bit behind, we do see the tradition catching on in more and more places. 🙂 Thanks for your comment, and Merry Christmas!
Great round-up! I’d love to go to the one in Denver, and I never knew about the Bavarian-esque town in Washington. I frankly get a little overwhelmed by the ones in New York, but that’s me. Thanks for linking up with #farawayfiles
We can see how the markets in New York can be a little (or a lot!) overwhelming. But Leavenworth – it’s gorgeous and so quaint! We could spend time there any time and not be overwhelmed. 🙂 Thanks for your comment, Corey, and Merry Christmas!
Leavenworth looks sooooo beautiful! Omg! This was the most perfect list ever! I’m a sucker for anything related to Christmas and Christmas markets! Thanks for this!
Wow – thanks for the kind words! To be honest, we like this list a lot, too, because…well, Christmas Markets! 🙂 We hope to be able to add more and more markets to the list every year. Leavenworth is gorgeous, but they all seem so fun! Thanks for your comment, Diam, and Merry Christmas!
All these markets look fabulous! I cannot wait to see the one in NYC when I arrive tomorrow for my Christmas holiday! See you at Fly Away Friday this week!
Oh how fun! Enjoy – the city is in full-on Christmas mode! You’ll have a great time. Can’t wait to read about what you find and fall in love with. 🙂 Merry Christmas and safe travels, Janine!
It’s funny how I lived in Washington for YEARS, went to college there, etc and I didn’t now about the Leavenworth Christmas Market?! Ugh I’m disappointed in myself, haha! Thanks for joining Fly Away Friday – hope to see you again this week! xo
That’s so funny. The things we miss in our own back yard, right? And now you have a reason to go back for a visit! Thanks so much for your comment. “See” you soon!
I’ve only been to New York once and our family stayed at the Bryant Hotel. Such a cool hotel and great park across the road. The sun was shining so lots of people were sunbathing in bikinis in the park – in the middle of the city! A bit funny for us because in Australia we have so many beaches and really hot weather. Would love to go back and experience their market in winter now. #FarawayFiles
That would be a funny sight to see! We’ve only been there in winter – not a bikini to be found! 😉 We really enjoyed Bryant Park, though – it’s become our favorite winter market in the city. We hope you make it there for Christmas one year! Thanks for your comment, Annette, and Merry Christmas!
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Thank you for this – I love the Christkindlmarkt’s of Europe and will be in NYC for the holidays – definitely going to check out the markets here.
You will love them! Be ready for lots of crowds on the weekends, and tons of fun! Enjoy, and Merry Christmas!
This is fantastic – being in Ireland and having spent many Xmas seasons in Europe away from home I have always loved a Christmas Market and wondered why we didn’t follow the same traditions in Canada and the US. I have noticed more and more springing up in both places and think they are a fantastic way to Xmas shop. I have been getting more disappointed by the commercialization of them though and wish they would put some rules in place about crappy imported goods stalls. I see so many markets these days with over processed foods, scarves and pashminas imported from China I find it rather sad that these wonderful markets are becoming more about selling garbage that real artisanal products and foods. But I think out of all of your picks Leavenworth looks the prettiest, or maybe Chicago who doesn’t love Chicago. Damn it will have to visit them all…I can’t choose…lol
We know exactly what you mean! There is a big debate where we live around the Texas Christkindlmarket and this new Enchant attraction. You’ll notice that it’s the only paid event in our list. It’s beautiful, but it’s become less about the Christmas Market. Many locals love having a new Christmas attraction, but are not happy that their beloved free community event – the market – is now locked behind the barrier of a paid event. For that reason, it almost didn’t make our list this year. We have definitely noticed the difference between markets in New York, also. Those run by Urban Space (Columbus Circle and Union Square) have a certification for vendors that sell handmade, made in the USA, made in New York, Organic, Fairtrade. Other markets are much more commercial, unfortunately. The last time we were at the Chicago market, it was a good mix of artisan and mass market. Plus, it’s Chicago! Thanks so much for your comment, and Happy Holidays!
I’m a huuuug efan of christkindl markets and since I’m from Europe visiting the ones in the US has long been on my list. Loved all your pictures!!! #FlyAwayFriday
That’s funny – visiting a bunch of European Christmas Markets has long been on our list! 😉 You should come over! We’re getting more every year, but this group is a great starting point. When you do make it to our shores, we’ll be excited to hear how you liked the markets! Thanks for your comment, Lisa, and Happy Holidays!
How the heck did I not know that Denver has a Christkindl Market!?! It is surely on the list now! #FlyAwayFriday
Well, now you know and that’s what counts, right? Plus, it’s in Denver, which we love. Gives it that nice, mountainy feeling. 🙂 We hope you get out to enjoy it! Thanks for your comment, and Happy Holidays!
I love Christmas markets, that is one thing we are really lacking in Australia. There are a few small ones but it’s not the same, without the winter decorations.
Although it sometimes gets pretty warm where we live, we just can’t imagine summertime weather at Christmas. But then, I suppose it all depends on what you’re used to. Thanks for your comment Sarah – we hope you find some Christmas Markets! 🙂
In today’s world many of us don’t have a time to plan things out. Even if matter considers planning out a Christmas activity. So having a guide about different holiday markets is always nice!
That is so true. Glad you find the guide helpful, and we hope you get to put it to use and see a few of the Christmas Markets! Thanks for your comment, and Happy Holidays!
Wow, I really had no idea that America is so big on Christmas markets. Love how many there are around the country and the Chicago one looks awesome – I maaaay just have to visit again!
And getting bigger! It seems like they’ve really caught on over the last few years. Hard to believe you haven’t been to the one in Chicago! I mean, that’s kinda your town. 😉 Thanks for your comment, Lexx, and Happy Holidays!
I just love all these festive photos and fun ideas! I don’t think we have anything like this in LA, but now I’m inspired to do a little research and see if we do… happy Christmas! #theweeklypostcard
Sadly, I think you’re right. We didn’t find any in our research, at least – but LA is a BIG area…there’s bound to be something. 😉 And you do have a knack for find the cools stuff around there. Just sayin’… 😉 Thanks for your comment, Hilary, and Happy Holidays!
So excited to see there are Christkindl Markets here in the US. The market in Chicago and NYC looks fantastic. I must plan a trip there for the holidays sometime. Great list and thanks so much for sharing! Pinned this for later use ? #feetdotravel
They’re catching on! We love anything in Chicago, and the Christmas Market is no exception. 🙂 And New York just has so much to do and see, it’s a fantastic holiday destination! Thanks for sharing the post, Stephanie – We hope you have a super Holiday Season!
I think it’s great that more places in the world have Christmas markets, it’s a fantastic tradition for everyone to enjoy. When I lived in the UK, I would go to the Christmas market in Manchester with friends then a Victorian Christmas market opened up a few years back in Gloucester so we had to go to that! This is a wonderful post, so informative, pinned to my Christmas markets and holidays board! #feetdotravel
Thanks for sharing Angie! And for the ideas in the UK. A Victorian Christmans Market would be awesome, we’ve made a note of that, just in case we can get over for Christmas sometime. (Won’t be this year, but hopefully before too terribly long.) We’ll have to do this list again next year with someone adding in the UK! Thanks for your comment – we hope you and Sy have a wonderful Holiday Season!
Even here in Australia I have heard of the wonders of Christmas in NewYork, but had no idea that so many other American cities could give it a run for its money.
The Christmas Markets are definitely gaining in popularity in the U.S. – but New York still holds the crown, we think. The more, the merrier though! Thanks for your comment, Sally, and Happy Holidays!
My spirits were getting very high as I started reading your post, Rob. American Christkindl Market? Yay! But as I continued reading, the bitter taste of disappointment began to settle in. Chicago, New York, Denver, Washington DC, … All these places are still far from Los Angeles and I would have to fly to get to any of them. I wish we would have authentic European Christmas Markets here too, but I guess at 75º F they wouldn’t have the same charm like in the freezing Chicago.
We know how you feel, Anda. It would be great if some of the Spanish missions in the area hosted Christmas Markets. I remember attending some in southern Arizona, and they always had a very special atmosphere, combining Las Posadas with a market, all lit up with luminarias. We would love to find a market like that, and it seems like someplace close to LA (Capistrano, maybe?) would be a great place for it. Fingers crossed! Happy Holidays, Anda, and thanks for your comment.
I just attended the Chicago market this week for the first time -and I loved it – and I’ve been to the Denver market a few times. Now I’m headed to my first New York City market in December.
How fun! Sounds like you’ve caught the Christmas Market Bug, too! We’ll be in New York for the tree lighting at Bryant Square this year, so we’re excited about that! Just being in the city around the holidays if fun. Enjoy the markets, and Happy Holidays! Thanks for your comment, too. 🙂
I think I need to start traveling more around the holidays. These look like some really fantastic markets. We have one in Philadelphia, but it isn’t huge like some of these markets. #WeekendWanderlust
Philadelphia! Thanks for letting us know – we will have to check it out! No matter the size, a Christmas Market really amps up our holiday spirit. We hope you get a chance to explore some of the markets on the list, and that you have Happy Holidays in store! Thanks for your comment, Sarah.
I love Christmas markets…they just get me in the holiday spirit! I’ve been to the one in DC but need to try to visit some of the others! Great resource…saving for later!
Hi Julie – To us, there is something special about a Christmas Market in DC! Especially with the National Tree close by. 🙂 It’s a nice train ride from DC to NYC – that would make a fun (if not crazy!) little Christmas Market weekend! We hope you do get out to see more! Happy holidays, and thanks for your comment.
It’s good to know we’ll still be able to find some Christmas markets when we eventually move back to the U.S.! Sharing your post on my fb page for my friends in America to get a little taste of Europe! 🙂
Hi guys, and thanks for sharing! Over the past few years, it seems like Christmas Markets have been gaining popularity in the US. We may have even more for you to enjoy when you’re back in the states! Happy holidays, and thanks for your comment!
What an awesome post! We love Christmas Markets! We thoroughly enjoyed the Bryant Park one in NYC and a gorgeous one in Brussels. There’s nothing quite like a Christmas market to bring the spirit of the season to a place. Next time we’re in the US at Christmas time we’ll be sure to check some of these out. Thanks.
Brussels would be brilliant! We’ve had that in our sights for a while, but never seem to get there. 🙁 We hope you guys to get to see a few more of the American markets – and hopefully we’ll have more to add to the list! Thanks so much for your comment.
This is amazing! I honestly believe you guys are the first travel bloggers I’ve read to cover Christmas markets outside of Europe. Of course, like you say, given the European roots of many Americans it really shouldn’t be surprising. (It never fails to amaze me how people forget that the US was founded by immigrants!) Which of these markets is your favourite?
We noticed there wasn’t much coverage of the American markets, which is too bad. We need to spread the word if we want them to grow! Hard to beat the New York markets – they’ve been at it for a long while, and there are a lot of Christmassy activities throughout the city. This is the first year for Enchant in Texas, and it’s the only paid event in the list, so we’ll be watching to see how that goes. We’re hoping they’ll at least put the market portion outside of the paid attractions for everyone to enjoy. Thanks for reading, Michelle!
Excellent! I have such a thing for winter markets. I think the Germans do it best (well duh, they invented it!) but Belgium, Czech Republic and The Netherlands also have great winter festivals. Great to know the Americans have their fun too!
#TheWeeklyPostcard
We have had great teachers! Between immigrants bringing their traditions, and travelers wanting to bring Europe home for the holidays, we are seeing more and more fairs and festivals in the European tradition. We love it! If only the holidays lasted long enough to see them all! (Yes, we have a thing for them, too. 🙂 Thanks for your comment, Esther!
I love the Christmas markets in NY, so I am glad other US cities are following suit. I am excited to see how the Christmas Markets here in Europe compare. #TheWeeklyPostcard.
How exciting – you have a whole continent of Christmas Markets almost at your fingertips! We would seriously go crazy in your shoes. We’re anxious to celebrate vicariously through your posts! 🙂 Thanks for the comment, Anisa.
To be honest, I never knew that the US had Christmas Markets until I moved to Germany. I should have known Leavenworth had one as it’s a traditional German town which I’ve been to before! #TheWeeklyPostcard!
It seems like most cities are just getting onto the Christkindl bandwagon over the past few years. Leavenworth is definitely special – they’ve made it their business to be a bit of Bavaria right in Washington, and they do it well! As always, thanks for your comment, Lolo! And thanks for your article on German Christmas Markets – it filled us with holiday wanderlust!
Yes, you definitely don’t need to go to Europe to visit a Christmas market. There are so many Christmas markets in America – I think almost all large cities have them as well as many of the mid sizes ones as well. Here in Scotland, we’ll be visiting our own local Christmas market here in Edinburgh which begins tonight actually 😉
We would love to visit Scotland during the holidays! We are heading to our local Tree Lighting festival this weekend, so we’ll toast you from afar. Thanks so much for your comment, Jessica!
Thanks for such a comprehensive guide to Christmas markets in the US. You’re right, the US isn’t the first place to pop into my head when I think of Christmas markets but it looks like they are done exceptionally well!
No thanks needed – we loved putting it together, and have been expanding it a little every year. Before long, we’ll make the USA into the Christkindl Capital of the World! (Okay…maybe not soon, but we can try. 😉 Thanks for your comment, Vicky!
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The Christkindlmarkts tradition is so popular now…seeing so many popping up in the UK but looks like the US do them very well indeed. I really like the look of the one in Chicago. Thanks for linking to #citytripping
Hi there, WanderMum! The Chicago market is fun…but that may be our love for Chicago talking. 😉 We’re excited to see so many, and more every year! Thanks for your comment, and Happy Holidays!
Aww I go to the Denver one all the time!!! It’s so much fun and definitely one of my favorite winter things to do!!! Thanks for sharing on FlyAwayFriday!
Hi Chloe – Good for you! We hit the Texas Christkindl almost every year, and get to as many others as we can! (Which is never enough!) Thanks for visiting, and Happy Holidays!
I hadn’t thought that of course people would have brought the Christmas market traditions with them – definitely something that’s spreading to more and more countries. Great tips if you’re not close enough to pop to the originals. #citytripping
That didn’t occur to us at first, either. It seems like such a European thing…but then, we have a lot of European ancestry in America. Makes sense that Christmas markets would catch on, even if it’s taken a while. We’re happy to see more and more of them every year! Thanks for your comment, and Happy Holidays!
Ahh my heart is so full reading about all the Christmas towns. I used to go to the Leavenworth one when I was there for undergrad! It really is lovely! Love having you on #FlyAwayFriday!
Hi Kana – a full heart is what Christmas is for! I envy you getting to go to Leavenworth every year. Bet you’d love to go back, eh? Thanks for the warm #FlyAwayFriday welcome – we’ll try to make it in more often. It’s great company to be in! 🙂 Happy Holidays!
beautiful photos!:) #citytripping ps. I do love Christmas markets:)
You’re not alone, Tanja! But you have lovely English markets to enjoy! We understand Manchester is amazing – that’s definitely on our holiday To Do list! Thanks for stopping by, and Happy Holidays!
This is a wonderful collection of Christkindl Markets here in the US. I didn’t realize there were so many awesome places to visit during the holidays. Great information and I will pin this for later use to plan my future holiday trips. Thanks so much for sharing 🙂
Hi Stephanie – We’re glad you found it useful! We’re finding more and more Christmas Markets springing up every year, but these are some of the oldest and largest. We love strolling through them – always fun! Thanks for your comment!
I like New York City’s holiday markets, they are a nice addition to the city, especially when it’s mild enough to sit outside and enjoy a snack. The other markets look fun, too. I’d be interested in the Bavarian one in Washington.
Hi Eileen, thanks for visiting our blog! The markets in NYC are awesome, but Leavenworth is amazing! It’s not a traditional Christmas Market so much as a festival in a city that seems like a Christmas Market itself! Definitely something that should be on every Holiday fanatic’s Bucket List! 🙂
Great stuff. I love Christmas and Christmas markets. Looks like you have some great one is the US that are very popular. Wouldn’t mind checking out the Chicago Christkindl Market.
Hi Barry, thanks for visiting! Chicago’s Christmas Market has a distinct advantage – you’ve got Michigan Avenue all that shopping on the Magnificent Mile just around the corner! Plus, it’s Chicago, one of our favorite cities. Hope you get a chance to visit it soon!
I read (and commented) last year, but thanks for the repost. I needed the reminder as I’d forgotten about that Arlington market. Maybe this year I’ll finally make it as we have not big plans for December travel and could squeeze in this roadtrip.
Thanks for visiting again! One of these days, I’m sure you’ll make it! At first, I wasn’t so sure the Arlington market would catch on, but it keeps getting bigger! Lots of new things for the kids this year, so they’ll have much more fun than they would have last year. And snow tubing! Okay, manufactured snow, but still! It would be a good year to visit. 🙂 Hope you make it!
Wow Rob, I’m surprised to see so many germanic Christmas Markets across the US! It’s great that they’re still sharing that tradition and they look like a heap of fun. I’ve visited a few here in Austria the last 2 years and know how great they can be with the lights and the gluhwein. Wish Australia had more things like this. Nice one!
They are enchanting! I think our European heritage and influence makes the markets very popular. I’m glad to see them becoming more of a tradition – and the Gluhwein, too! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by David!
There’s a small Christmas Market in central Philadelphia as well. Love this tradition and I hope more American cities follow suit. #weekendwanderlust
See that? More to add to the list! I also like Reading Terminal during the holidays – and anytime, really! Thanks for stopping by, Elaine!
What a wonderful post to help get us into the Christmas spirit and fab information for people wanting to visit a Christkindl market! I love Christmas markets, everything looks so pretty and there is always so much to see and do, plus there is always amazing food to choose from. We visited a market last week in Manchester, England so I have already had my first dose so far this year … more to come though! Thanks for taking the time to put this together for us, pinned for future reference.
Hi Angie – thanks for stopping by! We love the Christmas Markets too, and are a little jealous that you got one in so early in the season! Most of the US markets don’t open until the end of November – Thanksgiving or afterwards. But we are ready to go when they do! 🙂 Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to explore the Manchester market one day! 🙂
This is so cool – didn’t know Christmas markets were such a big thing in the USA and really cool to learn about so many of them! I would love to visit the Chicago one someday!
Hey Lexx – They are definitely catching on! I think New York and Chicago are some of the best, but maybe that’s because the setting is cold and snowy. It’s kind of surreal in Texas when you can be at a Christmas Market in shorts and a t-shirt! (Not every year – sometimes even Texas gets cold!) Thanks for the comment!
I have been to a number of European Christmas markets and the atmosphere is always so great and there are always some unique gifts to buy. I didn’t realise there were Christmas markets state side and I would love to go. Great post – thank you for sharing ?
Thanks, Sam! With all of the European heritage in the US, it was only a matter of time before the Markets caught on again. Every year, there seem to be more, and we’re glad to see it! Thanks for visiting the blog, and we hope you do get a chance to visit some of the American Christkindlmarkts!
Christmas markets always look so magical to me. I think it is the combination of the decorations and snow – everything seems to glisten. Thank you for this list.
Hi Rhonda – Thanks for stopping by! We love all of the decorations, and the magic certainly is contagious! Enjoy the holidays!
You are so right, I never really think of the US as having Christmas Markets, and I live in Washington State and I’m only a few hours away from Leavenworth. Great reminder!
It’s funny how we can overlook something right in our own backyards. It does seem like the tradition is growing though. There are more and bigger Christmas Markets across the US every year! Thanks for stopping by, Lara!
Many places and ideas that will be helpful for planning Christmas adventures! Thank you for sharing!!
Christmas Adventures – That’s what it’s all about! Hopefully, we’ve inspired a few holiday outings, whether to one of these markets or something close to wherever home may be! Thanks for stopping by the blog, guys!
I love the holiday markets in NYC, I visit them every year. I think the Bryant Park one is my favorite. I think this year they have even upped the selection of food. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard!
Hi Anisa! I don’t want to play favorites (Bryant Park!) because we appreciate every Christmas Market! 😉 I heard they were doing Tasting Tuesdays at Winter Village, but only on November 1st and 15th. 🙁 Hopefully, that will catch on and become a more regular event. Thanks for visiting the blog – enjoy the Markets!
We’re going to the Chicago Christkindl Market in a few weeks and I’m very excited. We’ve lived in the Chicago area for over five years and I’ve still never been. My husband took my daughter last year but I stayed home with the newborn since it was so cold. I’ve been to the one in Leavenworth a few times when I was a kid and loved it. Christmas markets are the perfect way to celebrate the season. #weekendwanderlust
How exciting! I bet the family will have a great time. We just love being in downtown Chicago…but that’s probably more to do with pizza and Michigan Avenue than anything else. 😉 Have fun at the Christmas Market, and thanks for stopping by our blog!
So awesome that there are so many markets in the US! Sadly, I’ve never been to any of them! However, i’m not surprised to see one in Leavenworth! I’ve been there before and the town is absolutely adorable! #wkendtravelinspiration
Hi Lolo – There are even more that we haven’t gotten to! Leavenworth is unique, being “America’s Most Bavarian Village.” Chicago is one of our favorite cities, so that ranks high on our list, too. We’re eager to go see more, though!
I’ve always wanted to visit a Christkindle market but thought that I’d have to go over to Europe to do it. I’m so glad to read that there are some on my side of the pond. The one in Arlington is the closest. I’m hitting that town a little too late for this year, but now I know to keep it in mind for next year.
Same here! New York has had markets for years, but we were happy to discover Chicago’s and then more and more. I was quite surprised when I learned Arlington has a Christkindlmarkt – small at first, but it’s gotten bigger every year. Although, last year was a bit strange having Gluhwein in shorts and t-shirts… 😉 Thanks for visiting us!
I’m excited to see American cities are featuring Christkindl markets. I’m in Chicago, so I’ll definitely visit that one! Thanks for featuring all of these options.
It is exciting! You’ll have to let us know how the Christkindl Market goes! Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to stop by, too – Chicago is one of our favorite cities, so any reason to visit is a good one! 🙂 Thanks for your comment, Brooke!
They look pretty authentic! I’m off to Vienna next month for a business trip but I’ll check out the markets too:) I love German &Austrian Christmas markets! # weekend travel inspiration
Hi Tanja – Have fun in Vienna! I think the American markets are getting better every year, but it’s hard to live up to what you see in Germany and Austria! 😉
I didn’t realize there were Christmas markets in the U.S. I’ve never been to one and would love to go someday. Thanks for sharing. #wkendtravelinspiration
One nice thing about travelling is bringing traditions home with you. In Arlington, a City Council member enjoyed her visit to markets in Europe so much that she worked for a few years to get one started at home, and it’s getting bigger every year. I am sure there are more out there, and we’re intent on tracking them down! Thanks for your comment, Karen!
Wow! I didn’t know there were so many Christmas markets in the States. Love it!
Thanks for linking up with Weekend Travel Inspiration.
We are catching up, and it seems like more smaller versions are starting to pop up. Still nothing like the European counterparts, but it’s a start! Thanks for stopping by, Corinne!
Thank you for sharing, this is ignorant me, but for some reason I always thought christkindl markets were more a European thing – but i couldn’t have been more wrong! I love the look of the one in Washington and New York. Thanks for sharing on #MondayEscapes
Hi Ting! I don’t think that’s ignorance at all! Christkindlmarkts are definitely a European thing, but there are increasing numbers in the U.S. Like many traditions, the markets have immigrated with Europeans settled here. And as more and more Americans travel the world, we tend to want to recreate some of the best traditions at home. Holiday markets in the snow seems like a natural for New York, doesn’t it?
I’d love to visit some of these markets, they just ooze festiveness!
Thanks for joining in #wednesdaywanderlust
Hi Malinda! I think you should do it! We always have a fun time – although sometimes we can’t feel our nose and toes afterwards! I know these might be a bit far for some people, so hopefully people will comment with other Christkindlmarkts worth visiting. Thanks for stopping by!
We went to the Denver market a few years ago – it was fantastic – and we plan to attend again this year!
Hi Jill – Thanks for the comment. We only got a peek at the Denver Christkindlmarkt, but would love to go back and enjoy it. As we say about so many things, “one day!” 😉
I’ve always thought that Chriskindl markets were only in Europe. I’ve never been able to get to Europe in December, but that Arlington one is only a 3 hour drive away from me. I’ll have to put it on the calendar this year. Thanks for the info and for linking up with #WkendTravelInspiration.
We were really excited when the Arlington Christkindl started up, and we’ve been there every year so far. It’s small but fun, and getting bigger every year. If you do go, be sure to check the calendar and go on a night that Brave Combo is playing. They take Christmas Party to a whole new level! Thanks for stopping by!
Interesting post! I didn’t even know markets like these existed on this side of the ocean. Would be most interested in attending the Leavenworth one.
Hi Ruth – We don’t blame you! The Leavenworth Christkindl and Lighting Ceremonies are epic! It is “America’s Most Bavarian Village” and they do a great job during the holidays. Lots of entertainment and tons of lights! And yeah…Gluhwein doesn’t hurt. 😉
I love Chicago’s Christkindlmarket. it would be fun to explore Christkindlmarkets in other cities, too. Thanks for the suggestions.
Thanks for stopping by, Connie! The one in Texas is kind of surreal sometimes. A couple of years ago, people were there in shorts and t-shirts! Hard to get into that Christkindl spirit when the weather’s almost tropical. 😉 Denver’s was really nice last year, but Leavenworth is amazing!
We are going to be in the USA for Christmas so this is perfect.
Good! I was hoping this might be useful. I know it’s still summer but it’s already time to start thinking about the holidays. Time just refuses to slow down! Hopefully, they’ll have dates for the New York markets soon, but they’re generally around the same time every year.
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