Trifter

If you have ever dreamed of visiting one of Europe’s world-famous Christmas markets, then there’s good news this side of the shore. Chicago hosts an annual Christkindlmarket similar to the real thing. Actually, this IS the real thing. It is an extension of Nuremberg’s original one, with merchants coming all the way from Germany just to participate in the American version. The market is conveniently located in Downtown Chicago, on Daley Plaza, which is also the spot for the City’s official Christmas Tree.

The only drawback I saw (having already visited a Christmas market in Frankfurt, Germany) was the variety of food available; other than that, it feels like strolling down a European market. The food choices are limited to bratwurst, potato pancakes, strudel, German-style hamburgers and soups and (thankfully) the Glühwein, which is traditional German wine heated and served in festive ceramic cups.  This cup is one souvenir sure to be used at home. There are 2 choices for the Glühwein, one non-alcoholic (kinderglühwein) and the original. People flock to get theirs, and it may be partly because it is so cold outside, but also because it is so good.

The market offers a wide variety of treasures, such as authentic cu-cu clocks, dolls, hand-crafted toys, Christmas ornaments, etc. Even if you don’t buy anything, the view is so festive, that alone is worth coming.

If you plan on visiting, make sure you wear warm clothes, and I really mean it: it can get extremely cold with the wind-chill factor at the Loop. Luckily, there were also winter gear vendors around when I went this year, and I was able to buy a hat to warm up my freezing head.

All in all, visiting Chicago’s Christkindlmarket will be a unique experience and it will also give you a chance of getting into the Christmas spirit at one of the world’s greatest cities. Did I mention admission is free? For all the details, visit the official site at christkindlmarket.com/