Discover the enchanting world of European-style Christmas markets right here in the US. No passport or expensive plane tickets are needed, these markets bring Old World charm to various cities across the country.
Unfortunately, “best” is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Here are some highly-rated Best Christmas markets in Europe, each with its own unique charm Cologne, Dresden and Nuremberg in Germany, Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck in Austria, Lille, Colmar, and Strasbourg in France.
From mouthwatering treats to unique handcrafted gifts, immerse yourself in the festive spirit as we explore the top 10 European-style Christmas markets.
1. Christmas Village, Philadelphia
Located at Love Park and City Hall, the Christmas Village in Philadelphia mirrors a real German Christmas market. With over 100 vendors, wooden booths offer European delights, ornaments, jewelry, and arts and crafts.
Indulge in the scent of waffles, gingerbread, and bratwurst, complemented by a cup of hot mulled wine. The market runs from mid-November to Christmas Eve.
2. Chris Kindle Market, Chicago
Inspired by the 16th-century Chris Kindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, Chicago’s Chris Kindle Market at Daley Plaza features decorated wooden booths offering Gühwein, German snacks, and unique gifts.
Running from mid-November to Christmas Eve, it includes musical performances and family-friendly activities.
3. Savannah Christmas Market, Georgia
Savannah hosts a European-style Christmas Market in the Plant Riverside District from mid-November to early January. Modeled after Salzburg’s market, it combines European charm with Southern flair, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, festive foods, and performances.
4. Denver Chris Kindle Market, Colorado
Bringing local and European food, live music, and iconic wooden market huts to Civic Center Park, the Denver Chris Kindle Market offers a delightful shopping experience.
Treat yourself to a steaming cup of Glühwein or Bavarian-style beer while exploring the market. It’s open daily from mid-November through December 23.
5. People’s Gas Holiday Market, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Set in beautifully illuminated Market Square, downtown Pittsburgh’s People’s Gas Holiday Market features handmade Polish and Celtic Irish gifts. Enjoy a fresh Austrian strudel or bratwurst while perusing the holiday goods in wooden chalets. The market adds a touch of European charm to the city.
6. Solvang Julefest, California
Instead of traveling to Copenhagen, experience Nordic Christmas at Solvang Julefest in California’s Danish town. With lights, decorations, and Danish treats, including aebleskiver and gløgg, this annual celebration offers a Scandinavian holiday experience.
7. Downtown Holiday Market, Washington, DC
Washington, DC’s Downtown Holiday Market, located just outside the National Portrait Gallery, features over 70 vendors offering locally made jewelry, pottery, paintings, and textiles. Open every day from mid-November through December 23, it provides a festive shopping atmosphere with live music.
8. Holland Kerstmarkt, Michigan
Head to Holland, Michigan, for an authentic Dutch Christmas market experience. The 18-booth Kerstmarkt offers traditional gifts, food, and artisan demonstrations. Held over five weekends from mid-November to mid-December, it’s a festive destination settled by Dutch immigrants.
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9. Great Dickens Christmas Fair, San Francisco
Transport yourself to Victorian London with the Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco. Open for five weekends from mid-November, this fair features themed events, activities, and venues, creating a wintry Wonderland with freshly roasted organic chestnuts.
10. Texas Chris Kindle Market, Arlington
Inspired by the German Christmas Village in Rothenberg ob der Tauber, the Texas Chris Kindle Market in Arlington brings European magic to Texas. With handcrafted gifts, collectibles, and exclusive merchandise, this market is open daily from late November through December 23.
Top 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2023
- 1. Christmas Village, Philadelphia
- 2. Chris Kindle Market, Chicago
- 3. Savannah Christmas Market, Georgia
- 4. Denver Chris Kindle Market, Colorado
- 5. People’s Gas Holiday Market, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- 6. Solvang Julefest, California
- 7. Downtown Holiday Market, Washington, DC
- 8. Holland Kerstmarkt, Michigan
- 9. Great Dickens Christmas Fair, San Francisco
- 10. Texas Chris Kindle Market, Arlington
Conclusion
As our enchanting tour of the top 10 European-style Christmas markets in the US concludes, may you be filled with the spirit of the season. Each market holds its unique holiday magic, waiting for you to discover. Whether seeking the perfect gift or soaking in festive cheer, these markets are a must-visit. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more wonderful explorations. Happy holidays, everyone!
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Denver Christkindlmarket