Christkindlmarket has been a holiday tradition in Chicago since 1996. Modeled after the 16th-century holiday markets in Germany, the free-admission outdoor bazaar in downtown Daley Plaza is a hub for traditional German fare, delightful warm beverages, and a charming holiday atmosphere that the entire family can enjoy. 

Here’s a rundown of what to eat, drink, and do at the 28th annual Christkindlmarket Chicago, which runs from Nov. 22 to Dec. 24, 2024. Also in the Chicagoland area, Christkindlmarket Aurora will be held in RiverEdge Park from Thursday to Sunday throughout the holiday season. 

Here are some of the cant-miss experiences at Christkindlmarket Chicago 2024:

Get a hot drink in a souvenir glass

ChristkindlmarketChristkindlmarket’s annual souvenir mugs are a must-have for keeping your hands warm as you stroll through the wintry market. The mug has taken many different forms in recent years, but none is as iconic as the classic boot shape.

Back by popular demand, the boot-shaped mug is returning this year for the first time since 2019. The mug is typically filled with glühwein (traditional hot spiced wine). Other glassware options include the adorable nutcracker mug for non-alcoholic drinks and a traditional ceramic stein to be filled with imported German beer. 

Christkindlmarket mug 2024

Christkindlmarket Nutcracker Mug 2024

Christkindlmarket Beer Stein 2024 Fill your mug of choice with these must-try sips at Christkindlmarket:

Imported German hot spiced wine from Original Nürnberger GlühweinPumpkin spice chai or pecan maple chai from Chiya ChaiHot chocolate with homemade whipped cream from Bobs Belgian Hot ChocolateHot cider from Stuffed Gourmet PretzelsImported German beer from Timber HausEnjoy traditional German food

Christkindlmarket; photo by True Shot StudiosYou don’t need to go to Germany to sample the local fare. At Christkindlmarket, you’ll find tons of German street food, from traditional plates to fusion cuisine. Try a variety of authentic European dishes like sausages, potato pancakes, schnitzel (thin, breaded, and fried meat), and goulash (meat and vegetable stew). 

Here are just a few of the top bites from Germany and beyond not to miss this year:

Currywurst and kebabs from DönerMenBread rolls with fish and sour pickled herring from RollmopsGiant pretzels from German pretzelsPotato and cheese pierogi from Pierogi HouseAlpine-style raclette from Baked Cheese HausFrankfurter sausages and potato pancakes from German GrillSchnitzel and goulash soup from Schnitzel HouseExplore all the delicious food and drink options at Christkindlmarket.

Try something sweet

Photo by GAE, LLCOn the sweeter side, stock up on morsels of chocolate, candy, cookies, stroopwafels, and traditional strudels. Or follow the rich warm scent of the holiday season to the classic sugar-coated roasted nuts and freshly made gingerbread treats. 

Here are just a few ways to indulge your sweet tooth at Christkindlmarket:

Gingerbread and German cookies at Sweet CastleChocolate-covered fruit from Chocolate Covered TreatsHot roasted nuts and gingerbread at Sweet SwabianMade-from-scratch pastries from La Boulangerie Co.Shop handmade gifts and decor

ChristkindlmarketGet a jump-start on your holiday gift shopping with a wide variety of perfect-for-winter items at many Christkindlmarket stalls. Find the perfect holiday present, souvenir, or something to round out your seasonal décor.

Cozy Peruvian sweaters, gloves, stuffed animals, and more at Winterborn AlpacaWoven scarves and shawls directly from artisans in India at Resham’sCuckoo clocks from the Black Forest from Fehrenbach Black Forest ClocksHandcrafted animal figurines from Wooden TreasuresAdvent calendars and all sorts of stocking stuffers at Bavarian TraditionHandblown and hand-painted ornaments from Glaszauber LauschaTraditional lace tablecloths from Meinel EmbroideryLeather purses and bags at Otavalao Inka.Check out a full list of this year’s artisan Christkindlmarket vendors.

Christkindlmarket Ornament 2024If youre looking for the perfect souvenir, dont miss the official Christkindlmarket 2024 ornament. The fourth annual ornament is hand-painted and glass-blown in Europe. Shaped like a miniature version of the classic boot mug, it features intricate holiday details, including mulled wine spices on top.

Join special Christkindlmarket events

Photo by Eric James WalshKick off the season with the annual Twas the Night Before Christkindlmarket Preview Party on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024. This highly anticipated preview event opens the market for a limited group of ticket holders before officially launching to the general public, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy the festivities in a more intimate setting.

Throughout the season, join in on Culture Cheer Tours where guests can dive into the rich history of the market, learn about the vendors, and discover German holiday traditions and language. Tours are held on weekend mornings and include a goodie bag filled with a variety of Christkindlmarket treats, including one of the souvenir boot mugs and a hot chocolate voucher.