November 20, 2023

Celebrating the Holidays with Old-World-Style Christmas Markets

With their captivating charm and festive spirit, Christmas markets hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Every winter, members of cities and towns come together to celebrate the holidays in old-world-style Christmas Markets. With Germanic roots that have spread across the globe, millions of people gather to shop, eat, and enjoy holiday festivities with friends and family.

History of Christmas Markets

Postcard of a Christmas Market

By Brück & Sohn – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

While the first known public market took place as early as the 13th century, historians have questioned whether or not these often weeks-long events were originally tied to the holiday season. The first recorded confirmed holiday market was held in 1434 in Germany, and over time these markets spread to other parts of Europe, including Switzerland and France. Centuries later, as Christmas became more widespread across Europe, people worldwide attempted to recreate these old-world markets.

Christmas markets grew in the 17th and 18th centuries, where, like today, attendees could buy sweet treats, meats, and hand-made gifts. These markets allowed townspeople and travelers of all classes to come together to celebrate the holidays.

The experiences, food, and socialization provided by these markets have helped them withstand the test of time. Through wars, economic depressions, and industrialization, Christmas markets have drawn millions of people together to embrace and celebrate the holiday season. Today, Christmas markets are found worldwide. From big cities in Asia to small towns across the United States, there is no shortage of holiday cheer, decorations with sparkling lights, and the sweet smell of pastries and candies.

Christmas Markets in the United States

Christkindlmarket – Chicago, IL

Booth at Chicago Christkindlmarket

The Christkindlmarket, inspired by the 16th century Christkindlmarket in Nuremberg, Germany, has been a Chicago tradition for almost 30 years, bringing holiday joy to locals and tourists alike. A free event in Daley Plaza, attendees can browse the outdoor market from late November until Christmas Eve, enjoying original food and beverages imported from Germany. The market has grown in popularity, expanding to an additional two parks in the Chicago suburbs. There are plenty of food options at the market, including pretzels, potato pancakes, and bratwurst. There are several Christkindlmarkets across the United States, including Colorado and Texas. Still, the downtown Chicago market has been voted the best Christkindlmarket outside of Europe for several years and remains one of the largest in the United States.

Yukon Czech Christmas Market – Yukon, OK

Nestled off US Route 66, the Yukon Czech Christmas Market is held annually and inspired by old-world markets with holiday decorations, gifts, and food. Market-goers can enjoy visits from Santa, local wine tastings, Czech pastries, and Christmas and Czech music. The market is a day-long, family-friendly event, welcoming guests to join in traditional Czech attire.

Tips for Visiting a Christmas Market

  • Research parking options ahead of your visit

Trying to find parking at busy events can be stressful. Save time by researching parking options for you and your family. If multiple families are attending together, try carpooling to reduce parking costs. In some cities, you can pay ahead to reserve a parking spot to make the day of the event a breeze!

  • Bring a reusable shopping bag

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to enjoy your snacks when you have other bags in your hand. Bring your own shopping bag to put your gifts and purchased crafts in – it frees up your hands and is good for the environment! If you want to go hands-free, consider bringing a backpack to wear instead.

  • Wear comfortable shoes

In some instances, Christmas markets can cover a lot of square footage! Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the market and not think about your feet hurting!

  • Bring cash

If you want to purchase refreshments or gifts, think about bringing cash. Some vendors may take debit or credit card payments, but others may not. Consider doing some research on the event, or call ahead to ask.