It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year — time to plan a last-minute visit to one of these US Christmas markets and get in the holiday spirit!

There’s nothing better than a good old-fashioned Christmas market to jump-start your heart to the magical place we all hold dear. And lest you think you have to travel to Europe to experience the traditional sights, sounds (and sweets) of the holidays, there are several European-style Christmas markets in the USA to plan your trip around!

Don’t get me wrong, I think spending Christmas in Europe is something every American traveler should do at least once in their lifetime. But if you just can’t convince yourself or your family to fly across the pond over the holidays, keep calm and grab a cup of hot cocoa, because we have 12 holiday markets you can experience right here in the US.

It may be a time for love and family, but ‘Tis also the season to travel, and experience the holidays in a whole new way — and STILL be home in time for Christmas!

What is a Christmas Market?

What is a Christmas market and how is it different than any other local farmers market? A traditional European-style Christmas market is based on the typical customs and holiday traditions of northern Europe at a time in late November or early December that historically signaled the beginning of Advent.

Christmas markets date back to the Middle Ages when shopkeepers would hold special markets in December so locals could stock up on goods in preparation for the long winter ahead.

In Europe, whether you’re in Germany or not, most every Christmas market you visit will have foods and traditions rooted in English or Germanic tradition. In fact, even though there are distinctive Italian traditions around the holidays, we were surprised that the Christmas markets in Italy were largely German, Austrian, and French in nature. Hot pretzels and a warm mug of glühwein? Now we’re talking!

Yes, much of the appeal of a good Christmas market is the food. Along with the warm, balsam-y aromas that hang in the air, you’ll find comfort foods like hot pretzels, cheese-y galette, sweet iced cakes and cookies, roasted chestnuts, toasted almonds, and the most Germanic of foods — bratwurst and other sausages.

You’ll also find specialty drinks like glühwein, the hot mulled wine flavored with cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and other warm spices. You might also find glührum, glühgin, and other varieties, eggnog, or intensely-rich and thick hot chocolate.

Christmas Markets in the USA

As you might expect, European-style Christmas markets in the US are popular in places throughout the country that were traditionally settled by Europeans, like the Midwest (especially the upper Midwest and Great Lakes states), New England and the northeastern states. Christmas markets in Pennsylvania are especially unique with the region’s Moravian heritage, and very own Christmas City in Bethlehem!

Follow the food to cities like Boston, New York, Philadelphia, LA, and Chicago where there’s traditional foods from around the world, and you’re bound to find a holiday market or two, or at least a traditional farmers markets dressed up for the holidays.

But don’t discount the parts of the US with large populations from other parts of the world. Southern cities like St. Augustine, Houston, and Miami have vibrant markets where you can taste holiday flavors rooted in Hispanic and Spanish flavors. These and other warm places in the US are perfect to visit in December and January.

12 US Christmas Markets Worth a Visit

Chicago Christkindlmarkt

Chicago, Illinois

DATES: November 18 — December 24, 2022

As one of the top food destinations in the US, it makes sense that Chicago has one of the great European-style Christmas markets in the USA as well. Chicago’s Christkindlmarket has been running for over 25 years and was based on the Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany. The market opens mid-November and runs until Christmas Eve. (In 2022 it starts November 18th).

Christkindlmarket is located at Daley Plaza in Downtown Chicago. The nearest CTA station is Washington on the Blue Line.

The market sells a range of handcrafted or hand painted gifts along with food and drink. Each year they create a unique ceramic souvenir mug for Gluhwein, hot chocolate or hot apple cider. Once the mug has been purchased, you can get discounted drink refills.

Another traditional food item is ‘Lebkuchenherzen’, heart-shaped gingerbread cookies in various sizes with different designs and greetings like ‘Frohe Weihnacht’ (Merry Christmas in German). The cookie treats are strung on a ribbon and many people wear them around their necks like a giant necklace!

There are several free events throughout the duration of the market, such as live performances for an Alpine brass band and meeting the Christkind (a fairy-like being that gives gifts to children in German speaking countries).

By Kylie Neuhaus of Between England & Iowa

Where to Stay in Chicago?

The Central Loop Hotel is a lovely place to stay just a 10 minute walk from Daley Plaza.

Check holiday rates and more info.

December Nights

San Diego, California

DATES: December 2 — 3, 2022

December Nights in San Diego’s stunning Balboa Park is kicking off the Holiday Season. Booths by local artists sell handmade crafts and arts, which makes it perfect to get a start on all your holiday shopping. Dozens of food stalls sell delicious treats from all around the world, from sweet to savory, crunchy, sticky, creamy, and delicious.

The stunning buildings are illuminated with thousands and thousands of sparkling lights, making them look even more festive and beautiful.

Balboa Park is also home to 18 world-class museums, all of which are free on December nights. From Photography to Natural History, Modern Art to Comic-Con, there is something for everyone.

After checking out the booths and museums, make your way down to the Balboa Park International Cottages. 31 countries each have a little cottage where they showcase their history, culture, and traditions. On December Nights, each cottage puts up special exhibits, performances, snacks and drinks that showcases that country’s Holiday traditions.

This free event is perfect for the whole family. Parking can be difficult, so using public transport or a shared ride is a great way to avoid this issue.

By Maria Haase of San Diego Explorer

Where to Stay in San Diego?

This spacious 500 sq ft Studio is a great place to stay near the festivities — with a very cool patio with an amazing view of Balboa Park!

Atlanta Christkindl Market

Atlanta, Georgia

DATES: November 25 — December 24, 2022

Hosted by the German American Cultural Foundation, the Atlanta Christkindl Market is one of the best Christmas markets in the US. The market has moved locations several times over the years, from Atlantic Station in Midtown and Centennial Olympic Park in Downtown to its current home in the trendy Buckhead Village district.

The festive Christmas market is a celebration of German culture, with a tradition that dates back to the late Middle Ages. During the Protestant Reformation, in an effort to rid the holiday of any Catholic Customs (including the German Santa Claus), Martin Luther introduced das Christkindl, an angel who gave gifts to good children. That figure was gradually replaced by Father Christmas, which evolved into Kris Kringle.

Now in its second year in Buckhead Village, the Atlanta holiday market finds Santa and the Christkindl working together to ensure people of all ages have something to smile about. Visitors can sample traditional German food such as bratwurst and schnitzel, and warm their cockles with hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and German Glühwein (a warm mulled wine that mixes red wine, spices, and fruit).

This popular Atlanta Christmas event will run from November 25th to December 24th, with more than 50 vendors providing excellent holiday shopping opportunities. The European-style market will feature everything from traditional German handcrafts and Christmas decor to toys, jewelry, and more. You can also visit Santa's house for photos with jolly ol' St. Nick!

By Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Green Global Travel

Where to Stay in Atlanta?

If you want to make a full weekend of it, Buckhead is renowned for its incredible shopping (check out the newly renovated Phipps Plaza), dining, and nightlife options. Posh hotels nearby include the St. Regis Atlanta, the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, and the Whitley (a Luxury Collection Hotel).

Union Square Christmas Market

New York City, New York

DATES: November 17 — December 24, 2022

One of the top things to do in New York City at Christmas time is to visit the outdoor holiday markets. There are several markets dotting the city, but the most famous and popular is the adorable market at Union Square, one of the best US Christmas markets.

There are over 150 stalls selling a variety of hand-crafted goods and foods. It features a lot of local artists and artisans, so is a great place to pick up NYC souvenirs and gifts that are unique and individualized. From artisanal chocolates and handmade jewelry to scented candles and Brooklyn crafts, you will almost certainly be able to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones (and yourself!)

You can also enjoy seasonal treats like hot chocolate with snowmen marshmallows, German lebkuchen ginger cookies, hot apple cider, and pumpkin spice coffee.

The market is open from November 17 to December 24. The hours are 11:00 am – 8:00 pm on weekdays; 10:00am – 8:00pm Saturdays; and 11:00am – 7:00pm on Sundays. It is closed Thanksgiving and closes for the season at 4:00pm on Christmas Eve.

The market is set up in rows around the southern end of Union Square. The 4,5,6; N,Q,R,W; and the L subway lines all stop at Union Square. The market does get crowded, especially on weekends, so try to go during a weekday if you can, when there will be a lot fewer people there.

There are plenty of other things to do in New York, of course, including skating in Bryant Park, enjoying the scenery at nearby Madison Square Park, and strolling along the Highline.

By James Ian of Travel Collecting

Where to Stay in NYC?

If you’d like to overnight near the market, the W New York Hotel at Union Square is excellent and super convenient.

Downtown DC Holiday Market

Washington DC

DATES: Daily November 18 — December 23, 2022

Many of the best Christmas season events in Washington DC are free to attend and the Downtown DC Holiday Market is no exception. From Thanksgiving to Christmas more than 70 vendors selling crafts, art, and unique gifts take over two blocks of F Street.

In addition, local food vendors offer a range of flavors and gift options from artisanal chocolates to empanadas to hearty German fare, and live entertainment adds to the festivities. Retail vendors are scheduled for either the first or second half of the show, encouraging repeat visits.

The DC Holiday Market has a great location right in front of the National Portrait Gallery. That means it's an easy walk to other Smithsonian Museums and seasonal attractions like the Capital Christmas Tree.

Parking is expensive in DC, so visitors should arrive by metro if possible. Conveniently, the market sits between two entrances to the Gallery Place Metro stop. In 2022, the DC Holiday Market is open daily from November 18 to December 23, noon to 8:00 PM, except closed on Thanksgiving Day and December 5th.

By Julie McCool of Fun in Fairfax VA

Where to Stay in DC?

Stay at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco DC, the official hotel partner for the market, and the fun continues with festive decorations, firepits, and special cocktails at the on-site restaurant, Dirty Habits.

Helen Christkindlmarkt

Helen, Georgia

DATES: Last weekend in November and the first weekend in December

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia, the tiny town of Helen GA was best known for its gold mining history until the late 1960s and early 1970s, when savvy local businessmen decided to transform it into the quirky, Bavarian-influenced "Alpine Helen."

Now all of the buildings in town have colorful German architecture, and there are loads of traditional German restaurants, biergartens, and quaint shops selling everything from German cuckoo clocks to European-style Christmas ornaments. They also have the largest annual Oktoberfest celebration you'll find outside of Germany!

So perhaps it's no surprise that Helen has been rated the “Top Christmas Town in America” by MSN.com and named one of Southern Living‘s “Best Christmas Towns in the USA.”

Christmas in Helen GA is like no other holiday celebration you'll find in the USA, from the festive Lighting of the Village ceremony and Christmas Parade to the Christkindlmarkt (aka Helen Christmas Market).

Now in its 15th year, the Helen Christkindlmarkt was originally held on the Marketplatz across from the Helen Square, but was expanded in 2021 to include additional booths at the Helen Festhalle (home of the Helen Oktoberfest).

There isn't much in the way of German fare, but you will find traditional Appalachian arts and crafts, organic soaps, handmade candles, Christmas decorations, and countless other options for Christmas shopping. There are also vendors selling everything from crepes and German pretzels to bratwurst and fudge, as well as live music and dance performances.

By Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

Where to Stay in Helen?

You can stay in any number of hotels located along Helen's Main Street, but we recommend the unique Barrel Cabins at Unicoi State Park, which is just over 3 miles from the heart of Helen. There you'll find Unicoi Lake and Lodge, as well as great hiking trails to town and the ever-popular Anna Ruby Falls.

St. Paul European Christmas Market

St. Paul, Minnesota

DATES: Every weekend in December until Christmas

Located in the capital of Minnesota, the St. Paul Christmas Market is one of the most unique European-style Christmas markets in the Twin Cities. Beginning on Black Friday, the market is open every weekend in December until Christmas and is held at the Union Depot in downtown St. Paul.

This market was first started in 2014 with the goal of bringing a fun holiday event that could become a new tradition to Minnesotans. What started as a 3-day event with just twelve kiosks has since grown to over 60 kiosks with 95,000 visitors on average during the season.

The festive St. Paul Christmas Market harkens back to the region’s cultural traditions and helps relieve those feelings of over-commercialization during the Christmas holidays by reminding us all of the simple aspects of spending time with family and friends.

Visitors can stroll through the market admiring handmade items made by local creators, such as Christmas ornaments, jewelry, home decor, candles, and more.

Local food vendors are always a highlight, serving traditional European foods such as crepes, German bratwurst, and more. Don’t forget a mug of glühwein to wash it all down!

While visiting, also check out the other great winter activities such as holiday lights at the GLOW festival or The Christmas Carol at the Guthrie Theater.

By Kassidy Olson of Kassidy’s Journey

Where to Stay in St. Paul?

When you’re ready to call it a night, check in to the Drury Plaza Hotel, just ½ mile away from Union Depot.

Check holiday rates and more details.

Leavenworth-Christmas-market — Photo credit: Victoria Ditkovsky / Shutterstock.com

Leavenworth Christkindlmarkt

Leavenworth, Washington

DATES: Thanksgiving weekend

Leavenworth, Washington is a tiny town, nestled in the Cascade Mountains, with Bavarian-style buildings lining its streets. While the town looks like something out of a fairytale year round, Leavenworth at Christmas is a whole different story, with a half a million lights decorating its downtown, carolers cheerfully strolling its streets, and vendors peddling chestnuts literally being roasted over an open fire.

Without a doubt, the Leavenworth Christmas market is simply one of the best!

Each year, Leavenworth hosts its very own Christkindlemarkt, the weekend after Thanksgiving. Here, you’ll find plenty of delicious Bavarian food, like pretzels, bratwursts, and, of course, steaming mugs of glühwein to keep you warm against the winter chill.

Local vendors sell homemade toys and crafts that would make the perfect Christmas gifts and there’s various Christmas-themed choirs, dance troops, and bands that perform and keep market-goers entertained.

To reach Leavenworth, you’ll need to drive a little over two hours east of Seattle into the Cascades. Even if you mainly want to see the Christkindlemarkt, be sure to hang around Leavenworth for the weekend so you can explore its charming downtown, full of bustling shops, restaurants, and cozy wine bars, complete with roaring fireplaces.

By Jessica Schmit at Uprooted Traveler

Where to Stay in Leavenworth?

Make the Bavarian Lodge your home during your stay. At night, warm up after a long day in the chilly winter air by relaxing in one of the two outdoor hot tubs and taking in the surrounding snowy Cascade Mountains.

Check holiday rates and more info

Christmas markets in the USA, Bethlehem PA — Photo credit: Lisa Boehm, ArtsQuest, ChristmasCity.org

Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

DATES: November 18-20 and 25-27 and December 1-4, 8-11, and 15-18, 2022

One of the most festive Christmas markets in the north east is found in the little town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, aptly nicknamed Christmas City USA. Located about 50 miles north of Philadelphia, Bethlehem comes alive each winter with a myriad of jubilant activities.

At the center of all the fun is the award-winning Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, now celebrating its 30th year. Visit this German-themed market and you’ll be sure to walk away with fantastic gifts for everyone on your holiday list. There are handmade crafts by talented local artisans as well as authentic holiday collectibles from German manufacturer, Käthe Wohlfahrt.

Stay for the day and enjoy live performances, glassblowing and ice sculpting demonstrations, and delicious German food and beer. Activities for the kids include crafts and visits with Santa.

An exciting new addition to this year’s market is the Skating Rink at SteelStacks where visitors of all ages are welcome to take a spin around the ice.

The Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem runs November 18-20th & 25-27th and December 1-4th, 8-11th, & 15-18th. While in town, be sure to check out other fun holiday events such as the Live Advent Calender, Christmas-City Stroll, and Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides.

By Kim Falchek of LA Family Travel

Where to Stay in Bethlehem?

The Hyatt Place Bethlehem is a nice place to stay while enjoying the festivities. For special occasions, opt for the Historic Hotel Bethlehem!

Savannah Christmas Market

Savannah, Georgia

DATES: Thanksgiving through New Year

The Savannah Christmas Market combines the traditional style of a German holiday market with the best of Southern hospitality. It’s held in the Plant Riverside District, which is located along Savannah’s historic waterfront.

The market opens the week of Thanksgiving and runs through the New Year. Expect to find a variety of local vendors such as E. Shaver Bookseller, Nourish, Savannah Bee Company, and Christmas on the River. The market makes an ideal place to pick up local souvenirs, Savannah-themed Christmas ornaments, and holiday gifts.

There are numerous restaurants in the area, ranging in style from pizza to sushi to delicious Southern BBQ. The market’s booths offer toasty drinks such as hot chocolate, coffee, and eggnog.

It’s easy to walk to the market from any hotel in the Historic District, but visitors can also take the holiday trolley (VIATOR link) or the free DOT shuttle.

To get into the holiday spirit, try visiting the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, check out the official city Christmas tree on Broughton Street, or go for a stroll down Jones Street to see beautiful mansions decorated in their holiday best.

By Erin Clarkson of Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Where to Stay in Savannah?

The JW Marriott Plant Riverside is an outstanding stay and is the closest hotel to the Christmas market.

Check rates over the holidays and more details.

Denver Christkindlmarkt

Denver, Colorado

DATES: Daily November 18 - December 23, 2022

The Christkindl Market is an authentic German market located in Denver, Colorado. It is located in the Civic Center Park, conveniently set up just a short walking distance away from the end of the popular 16th street mall. It is free for all and open daily from November 18th until December 23rd.

To get to the Christkindl Market, it is an easy ride on the free 16th Street Mall Ride, which has stops all along the Mall, to the final destination of Civic Center Station.

Guests can enjoy German holiday traditions at the market like Gluhwein, Bavarian Biers and European coffee. Festive gifts can be purchased at the cute wooden huts that sell holiday treats and international crafts from popular Colorado vendors and international merchants.

The Mile High Tree has been moved to the Christkindl Market at Civic Center Park. It is America’s tallest digital tree and is a colorful display for the holiday season. Guests can enjoy the Mile High Tree as well as family-friendly entertainment and German bands and dancers all for free.

Another one of the many popular things to do for the holidays in Denver is the Parade of Lights, which is a magical holiday parade down 16th Street Mall. This year’s parade will be on December 3rd. All of the floats will be on display at Civic Center Park.

By Michelle Moyer of Moyer Memoirs

Where to Stay in Denver?

The best hotels to stay nearest the market are the ones located on or near the 16th Street Mall — the Grand Hyatt Denver is one of our favorites. There is easy access to transportation throughout the 16th Street Mall which also allows convenient access to the Christkindl Market.

Check more details and holiday rates.

Solvang Yulefest

Solvang, California

DATES: November 26, 2022 — January 6, 2023

The holiday celebration in Solvang, California kicks off in mid-November with tons of new additions and fun-filled events to enjoy in central California’s famous Danish-style village.

Solvang's annual Julefest Christmas celebration is a lovely place to visit from both northern and southern California. Time magazine even raved about it, calling Solvang one of the "Most Christmas-y Towns in America".

Julefest is a month of lights, celebration, and holiday cheer, from the 3rd week of November until the first week of January with plenty of family fun, music, holiday shopping, culinary demonstrations, and flowing wine & beer. There are lots of fun things to do in Solvang's Christmas Market, kicking off with the festive tree lighting, Julefest Parade, Nisse Adventure, Santa's Village, candlelight tours, and lots more.

Hundreds of decorated Christmas trees transform the small town into a walkable fairy tale during Christmas with thousands of lights illuminating the quaint Dutch architecture. Copenhagen Drive, Alisal Road, and Solvang Park are three of the best spots to see the lights.

Not only does the city glow with all lights and beautiful Christmas decor, but there are also several artisans and artisan's fairs happening during Yulefest where you’ll find beautiful handmade treasures.

Plus, your sweet tooth will be in heaven tasting the best Danish pastry treats everywhere — after all, this is the Danish capital of the USA!

By Yukti Agrawal of Travel With Me 247

Where to Stay in Solvang?

The WorldMark Solvang is a great place to stay in Solvang around the holidays, and not just because it’s easy walking distance to the Yulefest!

Check availability and holiday rates.

12 US Christmas Markets Guaranteed To Put You in the Holiday Spirit