Why You Should Make a Special Trip to Chicago's Christmas Market
Chicago winters may be notoriously brutal, but the Windy City’s holiday spirit more than makes up for its lake-effect snow and unbearably strong gusts. (At least before the new year. Thoughts and prayers for anyone who chooses to brave the months of January, February, and March.) And there is perhaps, no institution more famous around Christmastime than Chicago’s own Christkindlmarkt: an outdoor strip of German vendors that offer food, drinks, ornaments, souvenirs, and more to bring a taste of Bavarian culture without the cost of a transcontinental flight.
Looking to experience the holly and jolly of this year’s festivities firsthand? Here is everything you need to know about Chicago’s Christmas market before booking a trip to the Midwest and taking part in this celebrated annual tradition.
When Is the 2022 Christkindlmarket?
Chicago's Christmas market will take place from Friday, November 18, 2022 to Saturday, December 24, 2022.
Where Is the 2022 Christkindlmarket?
There are three locations: Chicago, Aurora, and Wrigleyville. Chicago is home to its flagship market at Daley Plaza (50 W Washington Street). Hours of operation are Sundays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Aurora location (brand new in 2022!) is located at RiverEdge Park and is open Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wrigleyville hours have not been released, though it is likely that they’ll mirror those in Aurora. The installation, like in year’s past, can be found at Gallagher Way. This park is adjacent to Wrigley Field and can be easily accessed via mass transit.
Note: All market hours are subject to change, especially on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.
What Is the History of Christkindlmarket?
Chicago’s first Christkindlmarket started in 1995 when the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest Inc. (GACC Midwest) was “seeking alternative ways to promote bilateral trade between the U.S.A. and Germany.” Its inaugural year was in 1996 at Pioneer Court, but was moved to Daley Plaza the year after. Since its inception, it has become a Chicago staple that has attracted hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world.
Christkindl is the German version of Santa Claus, a white and gold fairy-like man with a crown who delivers presents to children on Christmas day.
What Can I Eat and Drink at Christkindlmarket?
You’ll find seasonal treats like spiced nuts, artisanal chocolate, cider and gingerbread aplenty, but food stands also offer authentic tastes of Germany’s most revered cuisine like pretzels, strudel, potato pancakes, bratwurst, and sauerkraut. Be sure to also order a mulled wine (called glühwein) in a commemorative mug. The design changes every year and has become a bit of a collector’s item.
What Else Can I Do at Christkindlmarket?
Take a good look at your Nice List and shop for one-of-a-kind German exports like puzzles, beer steins, ornaments, nativity scenes, jewelry, and hand-painted dolls.
There is also no shortage of entertainment at Christkindlmarket beyond eating and drinking with friends and family. Live music from brass quartets, carolers, and ballet performances are just a few things to look forward to as you take in the sights, smells, and sounds of this daily celebration that is likely to lure Santa Claus himself from the North Pole.
Schedules of events have not yet been released, but you can sign up for the Chirkindlmarket newsletter to stay up to date on this year’s offerings.
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