The best Christmas markets to visit in the US
The tradition of Christmas markets began in Germany, also referred to as Christkindlmarkets. At the markets, you could purchase from an array of food, warm drinks such as hot coco, and gifts for the holiday season. They became the perfect spot to celebrate the holiday season and find gifts for loved ones. In the United States, there are Christmas markets in almost every town, but listed below are some of the best (top 5) to visit in the U.S.:
In Chicago, Christkindlmarket: This Christmas market is the most expansive and oldest German-style market in the United States. It’s located in Daley Plaza, Chicago, and sells traditional German food and drinks, handmade crafts, and gifts/trinkets from vendors. The market also provides live entertainment such as brass bands and caroling.
In Leavenworth, Washington, The German Christmas Market: Every year, Washington hosts a German Christmas Market that sells traditional German food, gifts, and crafts. This market also offers live entertainment in the form of a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a yodeling contest.
In Des Moines, The Christkindlmarket: Located in Western Gateway Park, this mark hosts vendors selling German drinks and food along with handmade gifts and crafts. Similar to the market in Chicago, the market in Des Moines also features carolers and brass bands.
In New York, New York, The Union Square Market: This holiday market features over 150 vendors every year in the bustling and bright city of New York City. Filled with restaurants, retailers, and unique Christmas goodies, this Christmas market is a great choice for the family.
In Denver, Colorado, The Christkindlmarket at the Denver Botanic Gardens: This market is set in the luscious Botanic Gardens in Denver, Colorado. Every year, the market hosts holiday events including Krampus Nacht and Trachten Nacht, Ugly Sweater night, and Canine Christmas. They also host local dancers and musicians which perform interpretations of German Polka songs on their Greek Theatre Stage. Along with live entertainment, guests can enjoy German themed food, drinks, and trinkets.
These are only a few of the wonderful and immersive Christmas Markets across the U.S., and wherever you decide to go, be sure to eat some German food and drink some German beer!
