Christkindlmarket Chicago

The holidays aren’t the holidays without attending the annual Christkindlmarket.

A German tradition that has become a Chitown institution. It’s popularity has grown so much that they now have a Christkindlmarket in Naperville. If it snows, that would be perfect to visit! Come on Mother Nature, let it snow!

The atmosphere is relaxed even with all the people. It’s truly like stepping into a Christmas wonderland in some small German town away from everything although it’s smack in the middle of Daley Center!

The vendors offer many German foods, crafts and holiday goods. I spied traditional German cuckoo clocks for $550. On the other side, are samples of Wisconsin fried cheese. Always a treat! They have Hot Apple Cider and the Kinder Club mug for kids and the 2016 mug with your choice of Beer or Hot Spiced Mulled Wine.

Friendly faces greet you at every spot. This guy took his photo opp without even me asking. You can visit him and say hello. He’s the friendly popcorn guy! Tell him I sent ya.

We had our fill of potato pancakes, bratwurst, sauerkraut and roasted almond cashews for the night but want to go back again. And you should visit too! This market doesn’t last forever. They’re open from November 18 through December 24, 2016.

Hours are Sunday – Thursday: 11am-8pm. Friday – Saturday: 11am-9pm. Admission is FREE. Visit www.christkindlmarket.com for more info.

Couple of Lessons Learned:

The Hot Spiced Mulled Wine- make sure you pair it with the bratwurst and sauerkraut. Or you’ll be wobbling a wee bit around Daley Plaza like me.
Secondly, take your best low-light performing camera and NOT the point and shoot.

I’ve posted some magical shots from last year below and of course the much-loved Boot mug from 2015! To see them full-size, visit my Flickr page!