As the holiday season approaches, Chicago’s iconic Christkindlmarket has once again transformed Daley Plaza into a winter wonderland. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Christmas markets of Germany, this festive market offers a variety of experiences, including food, culture, and holiday cheer. From November 22 to December 24, the market is free to attend and remains a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
Inspired by the centuries-old Christmas markets of Nuremberg, Germany, Christkindlmarket brings a slice of European tradition to Chicago. Vendors from around the world are housed in rows of wooden huts adorned with twinkling lights — each offering unique handcrafted items.
“It felt like stepping into a winter wonderland with all the twinkling lights and the sounds of carolers,” said Grace Inouye ‘26. Inouye emphasized how the Christkindlmarket isn’t just about shopping or eating; rather, it’s an experience that immerses visitors in a festive world filled with warmth and joy, despite the chilly weather.
The Christkindl market boasts diverse vendors, many of whom come directly from Germany, offering authentic goods like hand-blown glass ornaments, intricate wooden toys, and traditional nutcrackers. Inouye reflected, “It’s not just about shopping — it’s about finding pieces that tell a story. Every stall had something unique.” The market also serves as a cultural hub, featuring live performances, storytelling sessions, and appearances by Christkindl herself — a beloved symbol of the season. Families can enjoy Kinder Club activities, including scavenger hunts and craft workshops. They can also wait for the appearance of Christkindl, a German spirit that symbolizes Christmas.
When it comes to food, Christkindlmarket does not disappoint. Frank Liao ‘25 recounted his culinary experience, starting with the iconic bratwurst: “The bratwurst was perfectly grilled, juicy, and served in a soft bun with a dollop of mustard. It’s a classic.” He also raved about the German potato pancakes — or Reibekuchen — which are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. “They came with applesauce, which added a sweet contrast to the savory potato pancakes. It was a unique experience to try traditional German food, which I had never tried before,” Liao said. The market’s other authentic German cuisine includes raclette sandwiches, which feature rich, melted Swiss cheese on top of crusty bread, and sweet treats such as traditional stollen and apple strudel. For a taste of the holidays, one can sip on Glühwein, a warm, spiced mulled wine served in collectible mugs shaped like boots or Christmas ornaments. Families can also enjoy hot cocoa or spiced cider while strolling through the festive aisles.
For both Inouye and Liao, the Chicago Christkindlmarket wasn’t just a market — it was an experience they will talk about every December. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, discovering German holiday treats, or snapping festive photos with friends, Christkindlmarket offers a one-of-a-kind holiday tradition that celebrates the winter season.
