in

10 Must-Visit German Christmas Markets in America

Keith H./Yelp

Ever dreamt of strolling through a bustling German Christmas market without booking a flight across the Atlantic? Luckily, you can experience the magic right here in the US, as here is a list of the top ten must-visit German Christmas markets across the country, where holiday magic and cherished traditions create unforgettable experiences for all.

Christkindlmarket Chicago – Chicago

Túrelio/Wikipedia

A true holiday wonder, Christkindlmarket Chicago ranks among the largest German Christmas markets in the US. Known for its wooden stalls and Glühwein, this festive spot offers bratwursts, pretzels, and intricate German handicrafts. Established in 1996, it’s modeled after Germany’s Nuremberg market and draws millions of visitors annually.

Denver Christkindl Market – Denver

Paul V./Yelp

Featuring live music, authentic German treats, and stalls brimming with handmade ornaments, Denver’s market has been a beloved local tradition since 2001. Enjoy steaming mugs of hot chocolate or spiced wine, and check out the polka bands and festive light displays for an unforgettable experience in the Rockies.

Union Square Holiday Market – New York

Chensiyuan/Wikipedia

Though not exclusively German, Union Square’s holiday market brings an old-world touch to NYC. Its charming rows of artisan vendors and a European-style setup make it feel like a mini Christkindlmarkt. Feast on German sausages and explore rows of unique gifts, as it offers a taste of Bavaria right in the Big Apple’s hustle and bustle!

Georgetown Christmas Market – Georgetown 

Jerry Stratton/Wikimedia Commons

For a quaint experience that feels like stepping back in time, the Georgetown Christmas Market is a gem. Set in the historic mining town of Georgetown, this market offers Victorian carolers, horse-drawn wagon rides, and traditional German foods. It’s been attracting visitors since 1960, bringing a distinctly European feel to the Colorado Rockies.

Arlington Christkindl Market – Arlington

Robert V./Yelp

Bigger truly is better at Arlington’s Christkindl Market! Located near the Texas Rangers’ stadium, this market combines Texas-sized charm with German traditions. Expect authentic fare like schnitzel and bratwurst, plus live entertainment and local artisans showcasing their best crafts. This is one of the few markets with a German ice rink.

Downtown Holiday Market – Washington, D.C.

Aarti B./Yelp

A winter staple for the nation’s capital, this market embraces a European-inspired holiday ambiance. It’s home to various vendors offering German-inspired treats and holiday crafts. Enjoy live music and savory bites as you browse stalls filled with art, ceramics, and gifts. Plus, this market’s city-centered vibe makes it a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts.

Old World Christmas Market – Elkhart Lake 

The Osthoff Resort/Wikipedia

Wisconsin’s Old World Christmas Market is a charmingly authentic, Bavarian-style holiday retreat set within a large tent. Here, vendors offer hand-blown glass ornaments, nutcrackers, and German culinary delights like potato pancakes. This Elkhart Lake market feels straight out of a European postcard, complete with festive lights and warm drinks.

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem – Bethlehem

Ragesoss/Wikipedia

Dubbed “Christmas City,” Bethlehem takes holiday festivities seriously, and its Christkindlmarkt doesn’t disappoint. Featuring more than 50 vendors, this market combines German tradition with Pennsylvania flair. With a range of wooden toys and German nutcrackers, the market provides a charming shopping experience.

Baltimore Christmas Village – Baltimore

Tom philachristmas/Wikipedia

This market on the list offers waterfront views with a German holiday twist. It offers classic German fare, including Lebkuchen (gingerbread), sausages, and mulled wine. Modeled after Cologne’s Christmas markets, it features an indoor beer garden, live music, and Bavarian-style chalets.

Texas Christkindl Market – Fort Worth

Robert V./Yelp

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes its Christkindl Market. This Fort Worth favorite offers Bavarian-inspired experiences with Texas warmth. Alongside German food and decor, you’ll find cowboy Santa photos, a Kinder Market for kids, and plenty of German crafts to bring home.

Written by Castillo Rancon

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *