As the holiday season approaches, Christmas markets across the United States are preparing to welcome visitors with festive cheer. These markets have grown in popularity, attracting millions each year with their unique offerings of handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and vibrant atmospheres. Here are some of the most notable Christmas markets to explore this year.
Union Square Holiday Market – New York City
The Union Square Holiday Market in New York City has been a staple since its inception in 1993. This year, the market opened on November 13 and will be open until December 24. Located in the historic Union Square Park, it features over 150 vendors offering a variety of handcrafted gifts and seasonal delights. The market typically attracts around two million visitors annually, making it one of the largest holiday attractions in the United States.
Christkindlmarket – Chicago, Illinois
The Christkindlmarket in Chicago, inspired by Germany’s Nuremberg market, first opened in 1996. Known for its record-breaking attendance, this festive destination opened on November 21 and will run until December 24. With approximately 55-60 vendors, the market draws over one million visitors each year, offering traditional German foods and unique holiday collectibles.
Downtown Holiday Market – Washington, D.C.
Since 2005, the Downtown Holiday Market in Washington, D.C., has been a popular festive gathering. This year, it operates from November 21 until December 23, featuring over 115 vendors. The market expects to surpass last year’s attendance of 340,000 visitors, providing holiday crafts, treats, and live entertainment throughout the season.
Christmas Village – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia’s Christmas Village has captivated audiences since 2008. This open-air market, which opened on November 22 and will close on December 24, includes more than 110 vendors and is anticipated to attract over 50,000 visitors this year. The market offers a European-style experience with a diverse range of shopping, food, and entertainment options.
Christkindlmarkt – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
The Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem is celebrating its 33rd year, having opened on November 14 and set to close on December 21. Named one of North America’s top holiday markets, it features around 180 vendors. Last year, the market welcomed over 120,000 visitors across its six-weekend duration, providing a unique shopping experience in a festive setting.
Dickens Christmas Fair – San Francisco, California
The Dickens Christmas Fair transforms the historic Cow Palace into a Victorian holiday fantasy for five weekends. Running from November 22 to December 21, the fair features around 100 vendors and creates an immersive experience reminiscent of Victorian London. Last year, it attracted approximately 5,000 guests daily, making it a unique addition to the holiday season.
Christmas Village – Baltimore, Maryland
Inspired by the 16th-century Christkindlesmarkt, Baltimore’s Christmas Village opened in 2013 and has become a cherished local tradition. After a preview weekend on November 22-23, the market officially opened on November 27 and will run until December 24. With over 60 vendors, the market expects to draw thousands of visitors eager to enjoy Glühwein and freshly grilled Bratwurst.
Christkindlmarkt – Carmel, Indiana
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt debuted in 2017 and quickly gained popularity, earning accolades as one of the top holiday markets in the Midwest. Opening on November 22 and closing on December 24, it features over 60 vendors. This year, the market anticipates breaking its record of 475,000 attendees as families seek to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Georgetown Christmas Market – Colorado
Celebrating its 65th anniversary, the Georgetown Christmas Market offers a nostalgic holiday experience. Scheduled for two weekends, December 6-7 and December 13-14, the market features over 40 vendors in a picturesque mountain town setting. With activities like horse-drawn wagon rides and roasted chestnuts, it typically draws over 10,000 visitors.
Kerstmarkt Holland – Michigan
The Kerstmarkt Holland has been a beloved tradition in West Michigan since its opening in 1997. This weekend-only market opened on November 21 and will continue until December 20. Featuring between 27 and 35 vendors, it provides an intimate, European-style holiday experience that differentiates it from larger markets.
Christmas markets across the United States offer a diverse array of festive experiences, from bustling urban fairs to charming local gatherings. These destinations not only celebrate the holiday spirit but also create lasting memories for families and visitors, making them a vital part of the holiday season.
