Christkindlmarket Chicago has been a local holiday tradition for more than 25 years, but its roots actually date back to 16th-century Germany. That’s when Nuremberg, Germany hosted one of Europe’s first massive, open-air holiday markets, called the Christkindlesmarkt. It not only promised plenty of holiday gifts but also served up hot food and drink, as well as ample amounts of holiday cheer.
Chicago’s modern-day take shares these traits. Each booth is designed to look like a small cabin, something you might expect to find in the Swiss Alps, and they’re all decked out with holiday garlands and twinkling lights. Daley Plaza will be packed with the cute little booths until December 24th in case you need to grab any last-minute gifts! Local artisans and food vendors will man the booths as holiday music drifts across the marketplace. Grab everything from hot chocolate to handmade jewelry at the one-of-a-kind holiday market—and soak up some of that holiday cheer while you’re at it! The market will be open Sundays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.