Inspired from a German Christkindlmarket in Nuremberg, Chicago hopes to bring European tradition to life. The first festival started in 1996 and has recurred every year from November 18- December 24 in Chicago. The festival will take place in the Daley Plaza between Washington and Clark Streets. Getting to Christkindlmarket will be easy because it is accessible by bus, train, subway, cab or car. The long hours will start from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., which will be convenient for customers who are busy during the holiday season.

  To begin, people from all around the world will visit The Christkindlmarket which will help spread a diversity of culture. The market will offer unique shopping experiences with typical German cuisine, souvenirs and even entertainment. Also, some vendors are to offer handicrafts with hand painted ornaments as well as home decor.

  Kim Whisler, a passerby claimed,”I wait all year to find cute decorations I can hang in my home for Christmas. My friends love them, and I always receive compliments on the handiwork. Sometimes I even find nice gifts for family while shopping at the market.”

  Perhaps the most popular item at the Christkindlmarket, however, proved to be the unique German cuisine. Aromas of potato pancakes, strudel and sausage have flooded the nearby area and often pulled new customers in for a taste inside. In addition, the market has been well known for German beverages, Gluhwein. It has been so special that the drink even came in a decorated mug.

  Brendan Vasko, a satisfied customer stated,”The food is the main reason why my family and I come to the Christkindlmarket. You can’t get it anywhere else.”

   Although admission to attend the Christkindlmarket is free, nearby parking will cost around 10-20 dollars. However, walking from the train station only will take around fifteen minutes from both Ogilvie and Union Stations.

   Lastly, the market also is to offer a Christkindl Passport at any participating vendor. Inside of the passport will be several color pages, activities and an at-market contest.  Also, every year, the market releases a new passport so families will have new activities to do with stuff to find within the market.