To celebrate Christmas, during the holidays leading up to Christmas Day, various cities in the United States open Christmas markets. You can see rows of shops selling Christmas supplies, unique handicrafts, delicious food, and warm beverages.
If you’re planning to celebrate Christmas in the United States, here are five of the most popular Christmas markets you must visit.
1. Christkindlmarket in Chicago
According to the Christkindlmarket website, this Christmas market in Chicago is located at Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, Christkindlmarket is one of the most iconic Christmas markets in the United States. This market features more than 50 vendors selling European-style Christmas ornaments, handmade wooden toys, and unique jewelry.
What makes this market special is its authentic atmosphere that truly feels like being in Europe. The Bavarian-style wooden stalls with red and white roofs create a very photogenic scene.
Don’t forget to try Glühwein (spiced warm wine), bratwurst, strudel, and traditional German gingerbread. The aroma of spices and roasted nuts fills the air, making the visit even more memorable.
2. Union Square Holiday Market in New York
New York is always a favorite destination during the holiday season. If you have plans to visit New York during the Christmas holiday, don’t miss the Union Square Holiday Market.
This Christmas market, which has been around since 1993, features more than 150 local vendors selling various high-quality artisan products. From handmade jewelry, warm knit clothing, organic soap, to local artwork, you can find Christmas gifts that are truly unique and meaningful.
Located in Union Square Park, Manhattan, this market is easily accessible by public transportation and surrounded by skyscrapers. Besides shopping, visitors can also enjoy various seasonal foods and beverages like hot chocolate, warm cider, and pretzels.
This market is open from mid-November through late December, perfect for tourists and locals who want to experience the Christmas spirit in the Big Apple.
Read also: Top 7 New York City Places to Visit
3. Philadelphia’s Christmas Village
This Christmas market is strategically located at Love Park and City Hall, making it easily accessible and part of the Philadelphia tourist tour. With more than 80 vendors, this market offers various authentic European products such as blown-glass ornaments from Germany, wooden Nutcracker dolls, aromatherapy candles, and high-quality textiles.
Philadelphia Christmas Village is also famous for its German cuisine, including schnitzel, sauerkraut, potato pancakes, and of course warming Glühwein.
One of the main attractions is the family-friendly atmosphere with various activities for children. There’s a play area, live music performances, and even visits from Santa Claus. This market is usually open from late November through late December, offering an authentic European Christmas experience in the heart of historic America.
4. Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
If you’re looking for a more intimate and quiet Christmas market experience away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, the Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake is the perfect choice.
This small village in Wisconsin transforms into an enchanting Christmas wonderland every winter season. This market highlights high-quality handicrafts, vintage Christmas decorations, and artisan products made with love.
The uniqueness of this market is its focus on personal experience and quality over quantity. Each vendor is a local craftsperson or artist who gladly shares stories about their product-making process.
The cuisine offered is also special, including warm soup, roasted chestnuts, and fresh pastries. The Old World Christmas Market usually takes place on certain weekends in December, making it the perfect destination for a memorable weekend getaway.
5. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair presents a very different and unique Christmas market concept. Instead of a traditional outdoor market, this indoor festival takes visitors back to the Victorian era in 19th-century London, inspired by the works of Charles Dickens.
Located at Cow Palace, San Francisco, this event is a combination of Christmas market, interactive theater, and cultural festival that’s highly entertaining.
This market features over 100 vendors selling various antiques, vintage jewelry, costumes, and Victorian-style handicrafts. Visitors can also enjoy live music performances, dancing, acrobatics, and various theater attractions on 11 different stages. The cuisine offered includes traditional British foods like meat pies, fish and chips, plum pudding, and wassail (spiced warm beverage).
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair typically runs for five to six weekends from mid-November through late December. Many visitors come in Victorian costumes to experience a more immersive journey. This is the perfect choice for those who want to celebrate Christmas in a unique, nostalgic, and highly entertaining way.
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If you have plans to visit, be sure to check operating schedules as each market has different opening and closing dates. Come at night to experience the most magical atmosphere with stunning lighting. Wear layered warm clothing as most markets are outdoors, and don’t forget to bring a large enough shopping bag for souvenirs!
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