Chicago families and visitors can look forward to the return of the city’s iconic Christkindlmarket on Nov. 20, just in time for the holiday season. The market, now in its 30th year, will operate at three sites: Daley Plaza in the Loop, Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville, and RiverEdge Park in Aurora.
Dates and Hours
The Loop market will be open daily from Nov. 20 through Dec. 24, with hours of 11 a.m.‑8 p.m. Monday‑Thursday and 11 a.m.‑10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The Wrigleyville location will run through Dec. 31, opening 3 p.m.‑9 p.m. Monday‑Thursday, 11 a.m.‑9 p.m. Friday‑Saturday and 11 a.m.‑7 p.m. Sunday. Aurora’s RiverEdge Park market mirrors the Loop schedule, closing on Christmas Eve.
30th‑Anniversary Celebration
Leila Schmidt, senior marketing manager for German American Events, said the organization is “super‑excited to celebrate 30 years at Daley Plaza.” A ticketed preview party, called “The Night Before Christkindlmarket,” will take place on Nov. 19, giving attendees early access to vendors, live holiday entertainment, and a first look at special‑edition 30th‑anniversary mugs.
Tickets for the preview event will go on sale in the coming weeks, and organizers promise a “really unique design and shape” for the commemorative mugs, though details remain under wraps.
Vendors and Attractions
Shoppers can expect a mix of local and international vendors offering handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional foods. Notable participants include DMen Tap, an Avondale‑based bar serving German‑style döner kebabs from a booth decorated with Krampus motifs, and Nepalese café Chiya Chai, which will sell Nepal‑origin foods, beverages, and gifts.
The Wrigleyville market will be part of “Winterland at Gallagher Way,” an annual winter festival that has previously featured carnival rides and an outdoor ice rink. Organizers plan to announce additional entertainment in the next few weeks.
Community Engagement
Even before the official opening, Christkindlmarket is launching a social‑media giveaway on Instagram on Aug. 24, with prizes sponsored by local businesses such as Hotel Zachary. Out‑of‑town visitors can find hotel specials and travel tips on the market’s “Plan Your Visit” page.
All market locations are free to the public, making the event an accessible holiday tradition for families, tourists, and local businesses alike.
Additional Information
For full details on vendor lists, entertainment schedules, and travel accommodations, readers are encouraged to visit the official Christkindlmarket website.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
