Oldest Christmas Markets in the U.S.
Historic U.S. Christmas markets offer a delightful blend of holiday cheer, artisanal crafts, and traditional festive treats, often inspired by European customs. These markets bring communities together, showcasing local vendors and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy the holiday season.
Advertisement
Across the United States, historic Christmas markets have become cherished annual traditions, drawing both residents and tourists alike. Originating from the German Weihnachtsmarkt concept, these markets feature beautifully decorated stalls selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and seasonal decorations. Visitors can indulge in a variety of treats, such as roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, and mulled wine, all while enjoying live music and entertainment. Many markets also host activities like ice skating, festive parades, and visits from Santa Claus, creating a magical experience for all ages. Cities like Chicago, Bethlehem, and Denver host some of the most popular markets, each with its unique character and charm. These events not only celebrate the holiday spirit but also support local artisans and small businesses, making them vital to the community's cultural fabric.
View AllChristkindlmarket Chicago - Festive German-inspired market with artisan goods and seasonal treats.
View AllChristmas Village Philadelphia - Charming outdoor market featuring holiday crafts and festive food.
View AllHoliday Market Baltimore - Festive holiday market showcasing crafts, food, and entertainment.
View AllGerman Christmas Market Denver - Charming festive market celebrating German holiday traditions in Denver.
View AllWinter Wonderland in Washington, D.C. - Festive holiday market with lights, crafts, and seasonal treats.
View AllChristkindlmarkt Bethlehem - Festive holiday market featuring crafts, food, and entertainment.
View AllChristmas Market at Union Station Kansas City - Festive holiday shopping, local crafts, and seasonal treats.
View AllOld World Christmas Market Elkhart Lake - Charming market featuring crafts, food, and holiday festivities.
View AllDenver Christkindl Market - Festive German-inspired holiday market with crafts and food.
Oldest Christmas Markets in the U.S.
1.
Christkindlmarket Chicago
Christkindlmarket Chicago is a beloved holiday market inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, held annually in Daley Plaza. Since its inception in 1996, it has become a cherished seasonal destination, enchanting visitors with its festive atmosphere. The market features charming wooden stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and authentic German treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and glühwein (spiced mulled wine). The twinkling lights and joyful music create a warm ambiance, making it a perfect spot for families and friends to gather, celebrate, and embrace the holiday spirit.
Pros
Christkindlmarket Chicago offers a festive atmosphere- unique artisan gifts
- delicious German treats
- and vibrant cultural performances
- making it a must-visit holiday destination.
Cons
Christkindlmarket Chicago can be overcrowded- pricey
- and often lacks authentic German offerings
- diminishing the overall festive experience for visitors.
2.
Christmas Village Philadelphia
Christmas Village in Philadelphia is a festive outdoor market that captures the charm of traditional European Christmas markets. Located in Love Park, it features dozens of vendor booths offering unique handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and holiday decorations. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, warm beverages, and live entertainment, all set against the backdrop of twinkling lights and festive decorations. The market typically runs from late November through Christmas Eve, providing a magical atmosphere for families and friends to celebrate the holiday season together. It's a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.
Pros
- Christmas Village Philadelphia offers a charming European-style market
- unique handmade gifts
- delicious seasonal treats
- and festive atmosphere for all ages.
Cons
- Christmas Village Philadelphia can be crowded
- expensive
- and sometimes lacks authentic holiday charm
- with limited local artisan presence and commercialized offerings.
3.
Holiday Market Baltimore
The Holiday Market Baltimore, part of the Historic U.S. Christmas Markets, is a vibrant seasonal celebration held in the heart of the city. This charming outdoor market features a delightful array of local artisans, crafters, and gourmet food vendors, offering unique handmade gifts, festive decorations, and delicious seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with twinkling lights, live entertainment, and holiday cheer. Perfect for families and friends, the market provides a festive setting to embrace the spirit of the season while supporting local businesses.
Pros
- Holiday Market Baltimore offers unique local crafts
- festive atmosphere
- delicious food
- and supports small businesses
- creating a vibrant community experience.
Cons
- Limited variety of vendors
- crowded atmosphere
- potential weather issues
- higher prices
- and short operational hours can detract from the Holiday Market experience.
4.
German Christmas Market Denver
The German Christmas Market in Denver is a festive annual event that captures the charm of traditional European holiday markets. Located in the heart of downtown Denver, it showcases a delightful array of handcrafted gifts, authentic German food, and mulled wine, creating a cozy atmosphere for visitors. Stalls adorned with twinkling lights offer unique artisan products, while live music and entertainment enhance the holiday spirit. With its blend of cultural traditions and community warmth, the market provides a magical experience for families and friends, celebrating the joy of the season.
Pros
- German Christmas Market Denver offers festive atmosphere
- unique crafts
- delicious food
- cultural experiences
- and a charming community spirit for all ages.
Cons
- Crowds can be overwhelming
- prices may be high
- and some vendors might lack authenticity compared to traditional European markets.
5.
Winter Wonderland in Washington, D.C.
Winter Wonderland in Washington, D.C. is a festive celebration that captures the spirit of the holiday season. Set against the backdrop of the historic city, this enchanting event features a charming Christmas market filled with artisanal crafts, local vendors, and delicious seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy live music, festive decorations, and an array of family-friendly activities, making it a perfect destination for creating lasting holiday memories. The atmosphere is vibrant and magical, inviting guests to embrace the joy of the season while exploring the rich cultural heritage of the nation’s capital.
Pros
- Winter Wonderland in D.C. offers festive atmosphere
- unique artisanal gifts
- delicious seasonal treats
- and community engagement
- perfect for holiday celebrations.
Cons
- Winter Wonderland can be overcrowded
- overpriced
- and may lack authentic charm
- detracting from the traditional holiday market experience.
6.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem
The Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem is a beloved annual holiday festival held in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. Established in 1993, it showcases a vibrant array of artisan crafts, unique gifts, and delicious seasonal treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and spiced cider. The market features live music, performances, and festive activities, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of Bethlehem’s rich Moravian heritage, the event attracts visitors from near and far, celebrating the spirit of the season with a blend of culture, community, and holiday cheer.
Pros
- Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem offers authentic German crafts
- festive foods
- live music
- and a charming atmosphere
- perfect for holiday shopping and family fun.
Cons
- Limited parking
- crowded during peak times
- high prices
- and potential weather challenges can detract from the Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem experience.
7.
Christmas Market at Union Station Kansas City
The Christmas Market at Union Station Kansas City is a delightful holiday tradition that transforms the historic venue into a winter wonderland. This festive market features a charming array of local artisans, vendors, and food purveyors offering handmade crafts, unique gifts, and seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere with twinkling lights, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The market celebrates the spirit of the season, making it a perfect destination for holiday shopping and creating cherished memories with loved ones in a beautifully decorated setting.
Pros
- The Christmas Market at Union Station offers festive atmosphere
- unique local vendors
- holiday treats
- and family-friendly activities in a historic setting.
Cons
- Crowds can be overwhelming
- prices may be high
- limited parking
- weather can be unpredictable
- and some vendors may lack variety.
8.
Old World Christmas Market Elkhart Lake
The Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake is a charming annual event that captures the spirit of traditional European Christmas markets. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Wisconsin, the market features an array of handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, and delicious seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy live music, warm mulled wine, and artisanal foods while exploring the unique booths that showcase local artisans and craftspeople. With its enchanting atmosphere, twinkling lights, and festive activities for all ages, the Old World Christmas Market offers a delightful experience for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake offers festive ambiance
- unique crafts
- local food
- and a charming atmosphere for holiday enthusiasts.
Cons
- Limited variety of vendors
- potential overcrowding
- unpredictable weather
- higher prices
- and shorter operating hours may detract from the experience.
9.
Denver Christkindl Market
The Denver Christkindl Market is a charming annual holiday event inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. Established in 2000, it transforms downtown Denver into a festive wonderland, featuring twinkling lights, artisanal stalls, and a cozy atmosphere. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and delicious treats like bratwurst, pretzels, and mulled wine. The market also showcases live music, cultural performances, and a stunning Christmas tree, creating a joyful gathering place for families and friends. This beloved event celebrates the spirit of the season and fosters community connection amidst the holiday cheer.
Pros
- The Denver Christkindl Market offers authentic European holiday charm
- unique crafts
- festive food
- live entertainment
- and a warm
- welcoming community atmosphere.
Cons
- The Denver Christkindl Market can be overcrowded
- expensive
- and may lack authenticity compared to traditional European Christmas markets.