By Marilee Kostadimas • Photos by Paul Kostadimas
Last Updated: October 18, 2026
The enchanting Minneapolis Christkindl Market charms and delights visitors with classic European-inspired Christmas festivities in Minnesota’s Twin Cities.
Paul and I (Marilee) greatly enjoy traditional Christmas Markets in Europe. They’re a treasured part of our slow travel abroad during the most wonderful time of the year.
So we’re thrilled to experience the magical blend of historic traditions and contemporary inspirations at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market.
We invite you, too, to experience this magical German-style Christmas Market in Minneapolis.
In the following article, you’ll find need-to-know info such as the official dates, hours, public transport, and parking. Plus our custom maps, travel tips, personal recommendations, and firsthand perspective to help you plan your trip.
Ready? Lass uns gehen, let’s go!
- Minneapolis Christkindl Market 2026: Dates and Hours
- Minneapolis Christkindl Market Experience
- Minneapolis Christmas Market Location
- Map of Twin Cities
- Minneapolis Christkindl Market Travel Tips
- Best Hotels Near the Minneapolis Christkindl Market
- Minneapolis Christkindl Market Traditions
- Minneapolis Christkindl Market FAQs
- Sources and Resources
- Check Out More Recommendations
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Minneapolis Christkindl Market 2026: Dates and Hours
In 2026, the Minneapolis Christkindl Market opens each of the five weekends before Christmas, which the following schedule-at-a-glance outlines.
We’ve verified the schedule directly with the official Minneapolis Christkindl Market event organization.
When planning your visit, please be aware that the Minneapolis Christkindl Market is an outdoor event. So opening hours may change without notice, due to prevailing weather or other conditions.
2026 Schedule at a Glance
Last verified: October 18, 2026 with the official event organization. Location: North Loop Green, 350 North 5th Street.
| Weekend | 2026 dates | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 2026 | ||||
| Weekend 1 Opening weekend | Nov 20–22 | 4 pm – 9 pm | 11 am – 9 pm | 11 am – 7 pm |
| Weekend 2 Thanksgiving weekend | Nov 27–29 | 4 pm – 9 pm | 11 am – 9 pm | 11 am – 7 pm |
| December 2026 | ||||
| Weekend 3 | Dec 4–6 | 4 pm – 9 pm | 11 am – 9 pm | 11 am – 7 pm |
| Weekend 4 | Dec 11–13 | 4 pm – 9 pm | 11 am – 9 pm | 11 am – 7 pm |
| Weekend 5 Final weekend | Dec 18–20 | 4 pm – 9 pm | 11 am – 9 pm | 11 am – 7 pm |
Open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only, and closed on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 26). Admission is free. This is an outdoor market, so hours can change with the weather. Check before you go.
Minneapolis Christkindl Market Experience
The Minneapolis Christkindl Market is an admission-free, community-centered, and family-friendly experience. This follows the model of European holiday markets.
We found, and in turn, you’ll find locals and visitors of all ages, all sharing happy smiles and Christmas spirit.
Besides heartfelt community spirit, there’s much more in store at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market.
There’s hand-crafted holiday shopping, hearty food and drinks, visits with Santa Claus, and free holiday entertainment each weekend.
So, bring your gift list and a good appetite! Oh yes, and although most Christmas Market merchants take credit cards, also bring cash for small purchases.
Gifts and Holiday Shopping
Quaint wooden market stalls feature local makers, regional artisans, and international craftspeople offering hand-crafted gifts.
Some one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones and yourself include, for example:
- Timeless handmade toys
- Hand-knit sweaters and textiles
- Luxurious accessories
- Classic steins and pottery
- Hand-blown exquisite ornaments
Oh yes, and do check out the Herrnhuter Sterne, or Herrnhuter Stars, authentic German handicrafts.
The lovely Hernnhuter Star paper lanterns add sparkle and shine to Christmas decorations and Christmas lights.
Food, Drinks, and Souvenir Mugs
Festive drinks on offer include an Instagrammable hot chocolate. As well as traditional Glühwein, a warm spiced mulled wine.
Glühwein is also available in a non-alcoholic version which we, as non-drinkers, find delightfully delicious and equally festive.
You can choose your holiday beverages either in the typical to-go cups. Or even better, in collectible ceramic mugs, fabulous and functional souvenirs.
Local vendors dish up traditional German foods such as Bratwurst sausages, Schnitzel breaded cutlets, and Spaetzle noodles. Plus Swiss Raclette melted cheeses, a forever favorite Christmas Market food.
Cakes, cookies, crepes, and other yummy treats will surely tempt your sweet tooth.
Entertainment and Festive Activities
Live music, Christmas carols, festive entertainment programs, and children’s crafts enliven the fun and enhance the ambiance.
The angelic Christkindl and jolly old Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, of course, make special appearances.
These activities and engagements may support a local charity in the Twin Cities like Ruff Start Rescue.
Also, make sure to visit the super cute selfie section with adorable aesthetic photo backdrops, such as a full-size sleigh.
After all, you’ll want to commemorate magical moments at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market with memorable Insta-worthy photos.
Minneapolis Christmas Market Location
The Minneapolis Christkindl Market is located in the historic North Loop, also known as the Warehouse District.
While the 19th-century legacy places North Loop on the National Register of Historic Places, this Minneapolis neighborhood is certainly hip and definitely happening.
Some of the nicest folks, swankiest boutiques, hottest restaurants, and cool coffee shops in Minneapolis call the North Loop home.
So, there’s a lively vibe and friendly community here. The renovated brick warehouses and modern buildings house numerous residences, start-ups, and small businesses.
This warm and welcoming mood extends to the Minneapolis Christkindl Market in the North Loop Green, a one-acre site.
With free admission, the Minneapolis Christmas Market opens its winter wonderland to everyone.
This further includes furry four-legged friends, because the North Loop Dog Run is next to the North Loop Green.
Address: Minneapolis Christkindl Market | North Loop Green | 350 North 5th Street | Minneapolis, MN 55401
Getting There: Public Transportation and Parking
North Loop Green is easily accessible via public transportation to Target Field Station, the downtown Minneapolis transportation hub.
Target Field Station is a bustling terminus for bus rapid transit and Metro light rail connections throughout the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.
The walking distance from Target Field Station to North Loop Green is approximately 0.4 mile (0.6 km).
If you’re considering to visit both the Minneapolis Christkindl and the St Paul European Christmas Market, then the Metro Green Line connects both Target Field Station and Union Depot.
If you’re interested in taking Metro Transit, check out the easy Metro Transit trip planner.
The LAZ Parking North Loop Green ramp is adjacent to the Minneapolis Christkindl Market.
The “C” Ramp of ABC Ramps is the next closest parking garage. Then, the “A” and “B” Ramp of ABC Ramps are a short walk, roughly two city blocks.
See our custom interactive map in the following section for Target Field Station and parking locations.
Accessibility
Once you’ve arrived at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market, the North Loop Green event site is fully accessible and step-free for wheelchairs and strollers.
Map of Twin Cities
Our custom interactive Twin Cities map below features both the Minneapolis Christkindl Market and the Saint Paul European Christmas Market, as well as nearby parking garages and our top hotel recommendations.
This interactive map additionally includes major attractions in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. Because there’s lots to fun things to do and see in the Twin Cities.
Not to mention, excellent specialty coffee and tea to drink! Check out our in-depth guides to great coffee shops in Saint Paul and the best coffee in Minneapolis.
That’s why we highly recommend an overnight stay rather than just a day trip, thus transforming your Christmas Market visit into an immersive slow travel weekend.
We also created the following Twin Cities map outlining the locations of the Minneapolis Christkindl Market, the Saint Paul European Christmas Market, and the Mississippi River flowing between the two cities.
Minneapolis Christkindl Market Travel Tips
The Minneapolis Christkindl Market is a multi-generational, family-friendly event offering free entrance to everyone.
Visitors with strollers and wheelchairs will find the North Loop Green site accessible and step-free.
However, the walkways, booths, and heated areas at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market can get quite, ahem, cozy.
Best Time to Visit the Minneapolis Christmas Market
If you’re wondering, “Well, what’s the best time to visit the Christmas Market?” here’s our personal perspective.
Without a doubt, the most magical time to visit the Minneapolis Christkindl Market is the late afternoon and evening, when the Christmas lights gleam and glitter.
Consequently, the late afternoon and evening are basically the busiest times at the holiday market.
We’ve visited the Christmas Market at different times both during the day and also in the evening. The nighttime ambience was surely enchanting, and assuredly packed with merry market-goers.
In short, if you prefer fewer crowds, rather than “the more, the merrier,” then we strongly suggest planning your visit for the earlier opening hours.
What to Wear to the Minneapolis Christmas Market
We travelers to Minnesota have learned what Minnesotans have always known, that is:
The months of November and December in Minneapolis can run the entire gamut of autumn and winter weather.
Bright sunshine and clear blue skies. Rain, sleet, snow, and ice. Not to mention, of course, seriously cold temperatures.
In contrast to the wintry conditions outside, however, interiors are often heated to toasty temperatures.
Planning, packing, and dressing appropriately for the conditions are among the essential holiday travel safety tips.
Thus, the best things to wear are warm layered clothing and warm socks (we’re big fans of cashmere and merino), waterproof shoes or winter boots, and gloves or mittens.
Then, top things off with a warm winter coat or parka. As well as a toque or super cute earmuffs, my favorite winter accessory.
Best Hotels Near the Minneapolis Christkindl Market
Whether you’re chiefly looking for a weekend getaway with things to do in Minneapolis, or specifically visiting Christmas Markets, the North Loop neighborhood is a great choice.
North Loop is indeed our favorite Minneapolis neighborhood at any time. Additionally, it’s the best area to stay for the Minneapolis Christkindl Market.
Staying in this authentic urban neighborhood invites you to explore on and off the beaten path. It also allows you to stroll quickly to the Christkindl Market.
Element Minneapolis Downtown
The Element Minneapolis Downtown is a trendy Marriott Bonvoy hotel in a prime location, mere steps from Target Field. It’s one of our favorite places to stay in the Twin Cities.
This 3-star hotel features light-filled public spaces, secure self parking on-site, a wellness focus, and a seasonal rooftop terrace with an outdoor fireplace.
The Element’s upscale guest rooms include full kitchens and living areas comfortable for either short or extended stays. We particularly like the One Bedroom Suite for different spaces to eat, relax, sleep, and work.
Speaking of work, Paul and I do indeed work while traveling, yes, even during holidays. So we especially appreciate the fast, free WiFi throughout the property.
The walking distance between the Element Minneapolis Downtown and the Minneapolis Christkindl Market is approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km).
Address: Element Minneapolis Downtown | 501 North 6th Avenue | Minneapolis, MN 55401
Lofton Hotel Minneapolis
The Lofton Hotel Minneapolis is a Tapestry Collection boutique hotel from Hilton. We look forward to staying here on our next trip to Minneapolis.
The full-service, 4-star hotel offers contemporary refinement for both leisure and business travel, including corporate meetings and special events.
The walking distance between the Lofton Hotel and the Minneapolis Christkindl Market is about 0.5 miles (0.8 km).
Address: Lofton Hotel Minneapolis | 601 North 1st Avenue | Minneapolis, MN 55403
Hewing Hotel
The Hewing Hotel is an independent boutique hotel in the North Loop’s heart. The owners renovated a 19th-century warehouse into a Nordic-style 4-star hotel.
The Hewing Hotel bustles with hotel guests and local urbanites alike enjoying the popular restaurant Tullibee, the chic lounges, and the year-round outdoor terrace.
In addition, hotel guests can relax in the Nordic sauna, spa, and the heated rooftop plunge pool.
Despite the buzz, the guest rooms are quiet and oh so cozy. The comfortable bedrooms feature luxe linens, exposed brick, soft lighting, and industrial-chic accents.
We’ve stayed at the Hewing Hotel on several occasions. Because we put our laptops away as much as possible during our stay, we welcome the sense of relaxation.
Above all, it’s a short walk between the Hewing Hotel and the Christkindl Market, just 0.2 miles (0.3 km).
Address: Hewing Hotel | 300 North Washington Avenue | Minneapolis, MN 55401
Minneapolis Christkindl Market Traditions
European Christmas Markets date to the medieval era with the first German and Viennese Christmas Markets , or “Christkindlmarkts.”
The old German word “Christkindl” or “Christkind” translates to “Christ Child,” honoring and celebrating the sacred birth of Jesus.
Historically, the Christkind is the one who brings the Christmas gifts. Over the centuries, the Christkindl has been depicted as a young, angelic figure.
Today, cities and countries around the world celebrate faith, family, friends, and food in similar fashion during the holiday season.
Several North American cities now host quintessential European Christmas Markets. For instance, the famous Christkindlmarket Chicago has headlined Windy City holidays since 1996.
Likewise, St. Paul, the Minnesota state capital, has held the St Paul European Christmas Market since 2014.
In 2024, the Minneapolis Christkindl Market debuted as the newest addition to the Twin Cities’ holiday scene.
As a result, you can now enjoy traditional holiday markets, holiday spirit, and holiday family fun in both the Twin Cities on the mighty Mississippi River.
Minneapolis Christkindl Market FAQs
What does Christkindl mean?
Christkindl, or Christkind, means “Christ Child” in German. In Germany, Austria, and other countries, the Christ Child Jesus brings Christmas gifts rather than Santa Claus.
Traditionally, the Christkind or Christkindl is depicted as an angelic figure wearing wings and a halo or crown.
What is the Minneapolis Christkindl Market?
The enchanting Minneapolis Christkindl Market is an outdoor holiday market with free admission in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. Historic Christmas Market traditions in Germany and Austria inspire the Minneapolis Christmas Market.
Local, regional, and international vendors offer handcrafted toys, gifts, and ornaments. Classic German foods, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and other beverages are also available.
Live music, Christmas carols, kids crafts, and community activities make this admission-free holiday event fun for the whole family.
Where is the Minneapolis Christkindl Market?
The current location for the Minneapolis Christkindl Market is the North Loop Green, a one-acre site in the historic North Loop neighborhood of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Are dogs allowed at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market?
Dogs are indeed allowed at the Minneapolis Christkindl Market. In fact, the popular North Loop Dog Run is adjacent to the Minneapolis Christmas Market. However, with the exception of service dogs, the peak market times may become too crowded for dogs to attend comfortably with their humans.
Is the Minneapolis Christkindl Market worth visiting?
The enchanting Minneapolis Christkindl Market is certainly worth visiting. This charming Christmas Market blends Austrian and German Christmas Market traditions with Midwestern spirit and local community support. There’s tasty food, delicious desserts, holiday drinks, and unique hand-made gifts to purchase. Additionally, admission to this festive family-friendly event is free.
Sources and Resources
Minneapolis Christkindl Market 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. 2021, revised and edited edition 2025.
Landler, Mark. “Vienna Journal: For Austrians, Ho-Ho-Ho is No Laughing Matter.” The New York Times, December 12, 2002.
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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.
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