By Marilee Kostadimas • Photos by Paul Kostadimas
Last Updated: November 5, 2026
The enchanting Christkindlmarket Chicago creates holiday magic and memories infused with the authentic traditions and festive spirit of Austrian and German Christmas Markets.
Paul and I (Marilee) rediscovered our sense of wonder and joy while visiting our first Vienna Christmas Market about 10 years ago. Ever since, European Christmas Markets have become a meaningful and memorable part of our own holiday traditions.
Just imagine our delight to experience this rich cultural heritage right in downtown Chicago, Illinois. No long-haul flights or passports needed to visit one of our long-time favorite cities during the most wonderful time of the year!
So, we created this guide to help you experience the Chicago Christkindlmarket, too.
You’ll find essential information such as opening and closing dates, open hours, and locations of the three Christkindlmarkets in Chicago.
Also, you’ll find our custom interactive map, personal recommendations, firsthand perspective, and travel tips to help plan your Windy City holiday trip.
Ready? Lass uns gehen, let’s go!
- Christkindlmarket Chicago 2026: Dates and Hours
- Christkindlmarket Chicago Experience
- Christkindlmarket Chicago Locations
- Christkindlmarket in Chicago Map
- Christkindlmarket Chicago Travel Tips
- Christkindlmarket Chicago Traditions
- Best Hotels Near Christkindlmarket Chicago
- Christkindlmarket Chicago FAQs
- Sources and Resources
- Check Out More Recommendations
When you book or purchase through some links, Spotlight Sojourns may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for using our affiliate links!
Christkindlmarket Chicago 2026: Dates and Hours
Since its debut in 1996, Christkindlmarket Chicago has grown from one downtown Chicago Christmas Market to three Christmas Markets across Chicagoland, the Chicago Metropolitan Area.
In 2026, Christkindlmarket Chicago celebrates its 30th season as one of the finest traditional Austrian and German Christmas Markets in North America.
The 2026 schedule-at-a-glance below outlines the opening and closing dates, regular hours, holiday hours, and locations of each Christkindlmarket. Admission is free to the Christkindlmarkets.
We confirmed the 2026 dates, hours, and other information directly with the official Christkindlmarket Chicago event organizers.
2026 Schedule at a Glance
Last verified: November 5, 2026 with the organizer’s 2026 announcement for the market’s 30th anniversary season. Tap a location to jump to its full section.
| Location | 2026 dates | Regular hours | Holiday hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | |||
| Christkindlmarket ChicagoDaley Plaza · 50 W Washington St | Nov 20 – Dec 24 | Sun–Thu 11 am – 8 pm Fri–Sat 11 am – 9 pm | Thanksgiving: 11 am – 4 pm Dec 24: 11 am – 4 pm |
| Christkindlmarket WrigleyvilleGallagher Way · 3635 N Clark StOpen after Christmas | Nov 20 – Dec 31 | Mon–Thu 3 pm – 9 pm Fri–Sat 11 am – 9 pm Sun 11 am – 7 pm | Thanksgiving: 11 am – 4 pm Dec 21–23: 11 am – 9 pm Dec 24: 11 am – 4 pm Dec 25: closed Dec 28–30: 11 am – 9 pm Dec 31: 11 am – 4 pm |
| Western Suburbs | |||
| Christkindlmarket AuroraRiverEdge Park · 360 N Broadway | Nov 20 – Dec 24 | Thu 11 am – 7 pm Fri–Sat 11 am – 9 pm Sun 11 am – 6 pm Closed Mon–Wed | Wed, Nov 25: 11 am – 7 pm Thanksgiving: 11 am – 4 pm Dec 21–23: 11 am – 7 pm Dec 24: 11 am – 4 pm |
All three locations are free to enter. Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 26. Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville are open daily. Aurora is open Thursday through Sunday, plus the extra weekdays listed. Hours can change with the weather, so check the official Christkindlmarket site before you go.
Christkindlmarket Chicago Experience
Since 1996, Christkindlmarket Chicago has been located in an important public square in the Chicago Loop, the city’s central business district.
Named for the late Richard J. Daley, Mayor of Chicago from 1955 to 1976, the Daley Center Plaza is the bustling modern heart of the Loop.
Impressive skyscrapers surround the square, and equally impressive public art centers the plaza.
When you arrive at Richard Daley Plaza, the spectacular steel sculpture Chicago Picasso, created in 1967 by Pablo Picasso, rises above the square.
A life-size Nativity scene and an illuminated entrance arch welcome you to the Christkindlmarket Chicago.
It’s an irresistible invitation to wander every aisle and explore everything!
Special Note: As mentioned previously, the Christkindlmarket Christmas Markets in Chicago are admission-free. However, staff monitor the visitor attendance numbers in accordance with capacity regulations.
Gifts and Holiday Shopping
Now that you’ve entered the winter wonderland, it’s time to explore the holiday magic of these authentic German-style Christmas markets in Chicago.
You’ll meet international, regional, and local vendors presenting artisanal goods beautifully displayed in quaint Alpine huts and chalets.
Indeed, the first booth we visited was hosted by Fraternité Notre Dame, a French monastic order. Kindly nuns offer their own fine pastries and handicrafts.
The Christkindlmarket holiday shopping experience includes handcrafted toys, exclusive items, unique gifts, and fun merchandise in a wide array of prices. For instance:
- Traditional wooden toys and nutcrackers
- European Christmas ornaments and decorations
- Elegant hand embroidery
- Colorful pottery, jewelry, and accessories
- Cozy sweaters, socks, hats, mittens, and gloves
- Charming souvenirs and stocking stuffers
If you’re wondering whether to pack a large or delicate item in your carry-on or checked luggage, we suggest asking the vendor about shipping straight to your home.
We purchased a beautiful hand-blown, hand-painted ornament which was both large and also delicate. The artisanal shop securely packed, insured, and shipped the ornament to our home. It arrived in perfect condition.
Food, Drinks, and Souvenir Mugs
Alongside the small family businesses and shops at Christkindlmarket Chicago, you’ll also find tasty food and beverages.
Food vendors serve savory European and local favorites, for example, sausages, schnitzels, pierogis, pretzels, and raclette.
Tempt your taste buds with decadent sweet treats, such as strudels, cookies, and chocolates.
The classic Christmas market drink is traditional Glühwein, a spiced, mulled hot wine. Hot chocolate, tea, and coffee are additionally available.
One particularly big and cozy place at Christkindlmarket Chicago is the Timber Haus. This enclosed, heated chalet serves Glühwein and beer to visitors ages 21 and over.
Oh yes, and if you wish, you can choose to have your beverage in a keepsake ceramic mug.
The adorable designs change each year, so these super-cute souvenir mugs are quite collectible. And also, quite instagrammable!
Entertainment and Family Activities
All the Christkindlmarket Christmas Markets in Chicago are admission-free and community-focused events with family-friendly programming.
During the season, each holiday market hosts different entertainment and family-friendly activities.
These may include the Christkindl appearances, live music and cultural performances, glassblowing, and crafts demonstrations.
Likewise, there are ticketed hands-on workshops, such as ornament making and wreath-making.
The Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville location even features an outdoor ice skating rink for a small fee. The Gallagher Ice Rank is a traditional activity Winterland at Gallagher Way.
Whenever you attend a Christkindlmarket, you’ll find a picturesque setting and Insta-worthy photo ops galore. Not to mention, the photo booth makes an colorful selfie backdrop.
So, snap and share the festive holiday fun!
Christkindlmarket Chicago Locations
Please be aware that Christkindlmarket Chicago, Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, and Christkindlmarket Aurora have different dates, opening hours, and locations. The schedule-at-a-glance above specifically outlines this need-to-know information.
Each of these three Christmas markets in Chicago are outdoor holiday events. Dates and hours of operations at Christkindlmarket Chicago, Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, and/or Christkindlmarket Aurora may change without notice, due to prevailing weather or other conditions.
Christkindlmarket Chicago Address
Address: Christkindlmarket Chicago | Daley Plaza, 50 West Washington Street | Chicago, IL 60602
Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville Address
Address: Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville | Gallagher Way, 3635 North Clark Street | Chicago, IL 60613
Christkindlmarket Aurora Address
Address: Christkindlmarket Aurora | RiverEdge Park, 360 North Broadway | Aurora, IL 60505
Accessibility
Come, experience the Christmas magic and create holiday memories at Christkindlmarket Chicago locations with your favorite person or people.
Paul and I travel as a couple, and just as we see in Europe, we saw people of all ages at Christkindlmarket Chicago: Solo professionals shopping on their lunch break or after work. Students and groups of friends. Couples, and multi-generational families.
All the Christkindlmarket outdoor event sites are step-free and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Christkindlmarket in Chicago Map
We designed the following custom interactive map to show the three Christkindlmarket Chicago Christmas Markets:
- The main Christkindlmarket Chicago in downtown Daley Plaza
- Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville in the Chicago Cubs’ neighborhood
- Christkindlemarket Aurora in Western Chicagoland
Our custom map also highlights the Chicago Christmas Tree and beloved holiday attractions such as Macy’s on State Street.
Additionally, our custom map features popular locations for Chicago Christmas lights and decorations. Plus outdoor ice skating at Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon and the Millennium Park Ice Rink.
The map below further includes our downtown Chicago hotel recommendations and convenient parking garages.
Christkindlmarket Chicago Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Christmas Markets in Chicago
Late afternoon and evening are the most magical times during the festive season. Because everything glows with holiday cheer and sparkles with fairy-tale lights.
Thus, the late afternoon and evening are considered the most popular times to visit Christkindlmarket Chicago, especially on the peak days, that is, Fridays and Saturdays.
If your schedule allows you to visit during the opening hour, then you may see slightly fewer crowds.
Regardless, pack a little patience. Bring a spirit of goodwill. And embrace a perspective of “the more, the merrier!”
What to Wear to Christmas Markets in Chicago=
Chicago in late November and December is basically cold, rainy or snowy, and reliably windy. After all, Chicago is called the “Windy City” for good reason.
So let’s reiterate, these Christmas markets in Chicago are outdoor events.
Although there are a few enclosed, heated chalets, you should expect to be outside in weather ranging from chilly winds to frigid cold.
Essential holiday travel safety tips include planning, packing, and dressing for winter weather outside and warmth inside.
The key to comfortable winter travel is warm, layered clothing. Natural fabrics such as fine merino, wool, and cashmere layers deliver seasonal warmth without overheating.
First, start with lightweight base layers, like thermal or silk tops and leggings. Secondly, a long-sleeve tee or turtleneck.
Thirdly, add a sweater, cardigan, or hoodie. Fourthly, warm socks and waterproof shoes or winter boots.
Finally, complete your outer layer with a warm winter coat or parka, gloves or mittens, and a scarf, toque, or hat. Or my favorite cold-weather accessories: cute earwarmers or chic earmuffs.
Christkindlmarket Chicago Traditions
Historic traditions of European Christmas Markets inspire and inform the modern-day Christmas Markets in Chicago.
The first German and Viennese Christmas Markets date from the late 13th to 16th centuries. These Advent markets allowed local merchants to sell their goods directly to the community before Christmas Day.
Since opening in 1996, Christkindlmarket Chicago has achieved international fame for its German-inspired authenticity.
Indeed, Travel and Leisure Magazine names Chicago Christkindlmarket “one of the most authentic European-style Christmas Markets in North America.”
Just as you’d find at Christmas Markets in Lisbon, Vienna, Salzburg, Dresden, or Nuremberg, you’ll find traditional expressions of faith here in Chicago, Illinois. In other words, Christkindlmarket Chicago keeps the Christ in Christmas.
In truth, it literally brought tears to our eyes to see the fully illuminated, full-size Nativity scene on one of the busiest streets in downtown Chicago, one of America’s biggest cities.
The beloved Christkindl also makes special appearances. In old German, “Christkind” or “Christkindl” means the Christ Child, Jesus.
The Christkind represents as an angelic figure who traditionally appears with a message of peace and goodwill.
Peak-roofed wooden stalls evoke nostalgic ideals of mountain huts and chalets in the snow-covered Alps.
You’ll discover a wonderful array of one-of-a-kind gifts, toys, and ornaments. Classic German market menus and warm drinks. Christmas carols and special performances, as well.
Above all, Christkindlmarket holiday markets are free to enter for everyone: Solo shoppers, friends, couples, families with children. And, of course, travelers.
How to Say Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in German
Germany has an ancient culture and a rich, complex language. Accordingly, German has both formal and informal greetings for a joyous holiday season.
However, let’s keep things simple with the following friendly German phrases:
“Frohe Weichnachten” is “Merry Christmas” in German.
“Frohe Feiertage” means “Happy Holidays” in German.
To wish someone “Happy New Year” in German, say “Frohes neues Jahr.”
Or try the phrase “Guten Rusch,” which translates to “Have a good slide” into the new year.
Best Hotels Near Christkindlmarket Chicago
There’s certainly no shortage of hotels and hotel brands in Chicago. We’ve stayed at many different hotels downtown and throughout Chicagoland.
During the holiday season, downtown Chicago is dynamic and in demand due to its lively vibes and lovely Christmas decorations.
When you stay in the Chicago Loop, you’re a few minutes’ walk from popular restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Plus, Richard Daley Plaza and the Christkindlmarket Chicago.
In addition, it’s a short walk to top attractions including State Street, Union Station, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Millennium Park. Plus, the beloved Bean and the magnificent City of Chicago Christmas Tree.
Also within walking distance or a short ride, depending on the weather, are Navy Pier, the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Adler Planetarium, and Soldier Field. Plus, Maggie Daley Park and the seasonal outdoor Ice Skating Ribbon.
Magnificent Mile is an iconic downtown destination with world-renowned shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Not to mention, some of the best coffee shops in Chicago.
Famous stores and fabulous decorations make Michigan Avenue’s “Mag Mile” and the upscale surrounding streets an excellent choice, as well.
Kimpton Gray Hotel
The Kimpton Gray Hotel is a historic landmark redesigned for modern lifestyles. The Kimpton luxury boutique hotel opened in 2016.
Built in 1894 as the New York Life Insurance Building, the 4-diamond, 4-star hotel reflects Gilded Age grandeur in its marble-clad architecture and staircases.
The hotel lobby, lounges, bars, and restaurants, as well as guest rooms and suites, are chic and contemporary in design.
Distinctive touches such as original art, yoga mats, and refillable aluminum water bottles evince the eclectic Kimpton aesthetic.
As a full-service hotel, the Kimpton Gray serves corporate meetings, special events, and weddings. Since we work while traveling, we appreciated the fast, free WiFi throughout the property.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Kimpton Gray Hotel and look forward to our next stay.
The walking distance between the Kimpton Gray Hotel and Christkindlmarket Chicago is approximately 0.3 miles (0.5 km).
Check the available dates and best prices, then book your stay:
Address: Kimpton Gray Hotel | 122 West Monroe Street | Chicago, IL 60603
LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection is a 4-star hotel from Marriott Bonvoy. Opened in 2022, it’s become one of the top-rated hotels in the Chicago Loop.
Elegant refinement resonates throughout this luxury hotel located on the upper floors of a 1914 landmark. Architect Daniel Burnham designed the Continental and Commercial National Bank Building.
The LaSalle Chicago features 232 posh guest rooms and suites, lounges, a steakhouse, and other amenities. In addition, the full-service hotel hosts business meetings and social events.
The walking distance from the LaSalle Chicago and Christkindlmarket Chicago is approximately 0.4 miles (0.6 km).
Check the available dates and best prices, then book your stay:
Address: The LaSalle Chicago | 208 South LaSalle Street | Chicago, IL 60604
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is the luxury 5-star hotel flagship of InterContinental Hotels and Resorts.
Anchoring the southern end of “Mag Mile,” the InterContinental Hotel blends Chicago’s past and present in two adjoining buildings.
The historic South Tower opened in 1929 as the Medinah Athletic Club, and the northern Grand Tower in 1961.
Original 1920s flourishes have since been restored in the historic hotel. Highlights include the golden Moorish rooftop dome, the Grand Ballroom with an immense Baccarat crystal chandelier, and, in particular, the glamorous indoor swimming pool.
In 2023, the hotel renovated and refreshed the 477 guest rooms and suites in the Executive Tower.
We’ve stayed at the InterContinental Chicago many times over the years. This busy full-service hotel is a favorite for its prime location, steps from high-end shops and the DuSable Bridge over the Chicago River.
The walking distance between InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile and Christkindlmarket Chicago is approximately 0.8 miles (1 km).
Check the available dates and best prices, then book your stay:
Address: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile | 505 North Michigan Avenue | Chicago, IL 60611
Christkindlmarket Chicago FAQs
What is Christkindlmarket Chicago?
Christkindlmarket Chicago are authentic German-inspired Christmas markets in Chicago, Illinois. Admission is free. Local vendors and small family businesses sell handmade toys, gifts, and ornaments in Alpine-style wooden market stalls. Classic food and drinks like hot chocolate and Glûhwein, a mulled wine, are also available for purchase.
Where is Christkindlmarket Chicago?
The three Christkindlmarket Chicago locations are:
- The main Christkindlmarket Chicago is located in the Chicago Loop at Daley Plaza, 50 West Washington Street, Chicago, IL 60602.
- Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville is located at Gallagher Way, 3635 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60613.
- Christkindlmarket Aurora is located at RiverEdge Park, 360 North Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505
When does Christkindlmarket Chicago open?
Both Christkindlmarket Chicago and Christkindlmarket Aurora open on November 20, 2026, and close on December 24, 2026. Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville opens on November 20, 2025, and closes on December 31, 2026. These holiday markets are outdoor events, so weather or other conditions may vary the opening dates and hours.
Is Christkindlmarket Chicago free?
Admission is free at the three Christkindlmarket Chicago Christmas Markets. Food, beverages, shopping, and ticketed activities are available to purchase.
Do Christkindlmarket Chicago vendors take credit cards?
Most Christkindlmarket Chicago merchants take credit cards. However, it’s a good idea to have cash handy for inexpensive items or small purchases.
How do I say Merry Christmas in German?
A simple, friendly way to say “Merry Christmas” in German is “Frohe Weichnachten” (pronounced FROH-eh VI-nak-ten).
Sources and Resources
Christkindlmarket Chicago official website.
Brothers Grimm, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, et al. A Very German Christmas: The Greatest Austrian, Swiss, and German Holiday Stories of All Time. New Vessel Press, 2020.
Djinis, Elizabeth, “A Brief History of Christmas Markets.” Smithsonian Magazine, December 19, 2022.
Kummerow, Marion. German Christmas Traditions. Self-published, 2021.
Thiruvengadam, Meena. “This Midwest City Hosts One of the Most Authentic European Christmas Markets in the U.S.” Travel and Leisure, November 25, 2025.
•••
Check Out More Recommendations
GET: Now that you’re ready to visit the Christkindlmarket in Chicago, Illinois, get our exclusive free storytelling guide! Our step-by-step guide helps you easily tell your travel story.
All opinions expressed are Spotlight Sojourns’ own. All content and images are original, created with care and craft by yours truly, Marilee Kostadimas, the writer and Paul Kostadimas, the photographer, except where noted.
Hi! We're Marilee and Paul
Slow travel stories and hidden gems with the Hidden Gemologists®
Original travel guides and original photography exploring the culture, history, and backroads of Greece, Europe, and North America.
It’s all original, created with care and craft by yours truly, writer Marilee and photographer Paul, from our lived experience and firsthand perspective.
Our mission: Connect you with wonderful places, delightful hotels, cultural experiences, and local communities. Our purpose: Inspire you to tell your travel story.
Because slow travel is meaningful travel, part of a meaningful life. And stories enrich the meaning.
Get travel inspo!
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and join our global community of slow travelers and travel dreamers.
It's a quick 1-2 minute read with slow travel stories, hidden gems, travel tips, recommendations, and conversations.
"Don't call it a newsletter! It's not a newsletter." "It’s the only email l really read and enjoy."