12 Best Christmas Markets in the US That Feel Like a European Holiday Escape
When you think of Christmas markets, your mind probably wanders to Europe with Germany’s glowing wooden stalls, mulled wine warming your hands, and the sound of carolers echoing through centuries-old squares. But you don’t need a passport to step into that kind of holiday magic.
The US has its own festive take on these beloved traditions, complete with twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and enough holiday treats to make Santa jealous. Here are 12 Christmas markets in the US that will have you feeling like a kid on Christmas morning.
1. Christkindlmarket, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem really gets into the celebration of Christmas, as one might expect with such a name. A huge part of the seasonal celebrations is the Christkindlmarkt held each year. Speaking of huge, this market spreads out over ten acres.
Explore over 150 vendors offering live music, street food favorites, traditional German delights like strudel and pretzels, and all your holiday favorites.
2. Denver Christkindlmarkt, Denver, Colorado
This Christmas market sets up shop in downtown Denver, bringing the spirit of a traditional German Christmas to the Rockies. Since its inaugural opening in 1998, this market has grown exponentially.
Browse artisanal gifts, including hand-carved toys and intricate glass ornaments, with more than 40 vendors, with traditional German treats like Knodel and strudel. As you stroll the vendors and activities don’t miss the Mile High Tree, the tallest LED Christmas tree in the United States.
3. Christkindlmarkt, Carmel, Indiana
A common feature of German Christmas markets is the Glühwein Pyramid, a tiered wooden structure with lights, and you will find one at the Christmas market in Carmel, Indiana. This 33-foot-tall structure lights up the night sky with more than 3,000 sparkling lights.
Watch as artisans create handmade wooden and glass items, and munch on authentic food like döner kebabs, German potato pancakes, or a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine). More than 60 vendors come to spread the holiday spirit, and you can join other fun activities like ice skating and live music.
4. Union Square Market, New York, New York
New York City has always been a Christmas destination for many. More than 100 booths get set up with different vendors selling everything from artisanal candles to gourmet hot chocolate mixes.
Enjoy the crisp air as you explore rows of unique offerings while sipping cider or hot cocoa. When you arrive, stop by the information booth; they have coupons for some of the vendors.
5. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair, Daly City, California
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is one of the most unique Christmas markets in the United States. Organizers transform the Cow Palace Arena into a Charles Dicken-era London with hundreds of performers and vendors all dressed the part.
Seasonal shops sell handmade goods like candles, leather goods, and jewelry. Music halls echo with live performances and munch on delicious snacks like fish and chips, roasted chestnuts, pints, and even Christmas pudding. Watch out for beloved Dickens characters such as Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and others.
6. Christmas Village, Baltimore, Maryland
Set along the Inner Harbor, Baltimore’s Christmas Village offers scenic views alongside holiday shopping. The Christmas Village in Baltimore, Maryland, traces its origins to its German founders, who were among the first settlers in the area.
At this annual celebration, you’ll find a Glühwein Pyramid and plenty more. This indoor and outdoor holiday market has plenty of vendors with custom-made goods, as well as an amusement park and a beer garden.
7. DowntownDC Holiday Market, Washington, D.C.
The DowntownDC Holiday Market has been a tradition for 20 years, and every year, it gets bigger and better, with more vendors and activities to celebrate the holiday season. This open-air market is home to more than 100 vendors.
There are live musicians, delectable food, ice skating, and a kid’s activity area. Once you have finished at the market, you can visit the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery for free.
8. Christkindlmarket Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
The Christkindlemarket in Chicago is held in two separate locations, one in Chicago and one in Wrigleyville. The blend of German and European influences is evident in everything from the wooden stalls to the spiced wine served in collectible mugs.
These German-style outdoor Christmas markets feature festive music from live performers, sparkling lights, ornate decorations, and many vendor booths. One-of-a-kind artisans sell their goods, such as handmade nutcrackers, and the market is filled with delicious goodies just waiting for you to try them.
9. Christmas Village, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you aren’t feeling the Christmas spirit yet, a trip to the Christmas Village in Philadelphia can help. Thousands of Christmas lights and an array of handmade gifts all await you in this outdoor market.
The Christmas market is only one aspect of this fantastic venue. You can also visit the Festival of Trees, the Made In Philadelphia Market featuring local craftsmen, and the Ice Rink at Dilworth Park.
10. Kerstmarkt, Holland, Michigan
Kerstmarkt is a Dutch Christmas market that everyone will love. Filled with Dutch culture and tradition, it features carolers dressed in Victorian-era clothing, a handbell concert, and greetings from Sinterklaas, the Dutch Santa.
Wonderful gifts, such as wool socks, handmade pens, and even wooden shoes, go on sale from local artisans. While browsing the festive stalls, try traditional foods like stroopwafels or Dutch pastries.
11. Texas Christkindl Market, Arlington, Texas
This market is one of the largest open-air holiday events in the state. Co-sponsored by Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a German town, and Käthe Wohlfahrt, Germany’s largest Christmas company, the Texas Christkindl Market looks and feels like one you might see in Germany.
Explore stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and festive decor. Watch a Swiss Long Horn Quartet performance playing your Christmas favorites on 12-foot-long alphorns.
12. Old World Christmas Market, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
The Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake is held at the Osthoff Resort. This annual event is the place to find local and international artisans with unique Christmas gifts for everyone on your list.
You’ll find hand-carved nutcrackers, fresh evergreen Christmas wreaths, handmade jewelry, and more. Ride a horse-drawn carriage while eating delightful German foods like potato pancakes, sauerbraten, and Glühwein.
Allison Manning
Allison Manning is the creative mind behind Simply Stunning Content. With more than 20 years of writing experience under her belt, she is a master of creating captivating content that connects with audiences of all types. When she’s not working on new content you can find her cooking, reading, or listening to a very eclectic library of music.
When she’s not working, she prioritizes her family above everything else. Whether it’s spending quality time with her loving husband, three amazing kids, or her faithful dog, family is where she finds her joy and inspiration. She strives to make every piece of content she creates simply stunning.
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