This Midwest City Hosts One of the Most Authentic European Christmas Markets in the U.S.

You don’t have to fly halfway around the world to experience an authentic European Christmas market. Just head to Chicago for a festive holiday escape to Bavaria, complete with warm pretzels, delicious bratwurst, and steaming mugs of mulled wine. Chicago is home to Christkindlmarket, one of the most authentic European-style Christmas markets in North America.

A few blocks from the Bean, cozy wooden stalls line the bustling downtown plaza, selling handcrafted Christmas decor, nutcrackers, and festive décor. Follow the scents of roasted nuts and freshly grilled bratwurst through the crowds toward hot glühwein, rich hot chocolate, and spiced cider. The air feels alive with holiday spirit, and for a moment, it’s easy to believe you’ve been transported to Germany.

The Christkindlmarket also celebrates European flavors. Try zapiekanki (a Polish pizza-like open faced sandwich) or sample fresh pierogies and Swiss-style raclette made from Wisconsin cheese. Sip chai or taste Currywurst, the post–World War II Berlin favorite of sausage topped with spicy curry ketchup. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy Austrian apple strudel, Belgian hot chocolate, or delicate French pastries.

Chicago’s Christkindlmarket takes its inspiration from the 16th-century market in Nuremberg, Germany, one of Europe’s first outdoor Christmas markets. The Chicago version was started in 1996 by a local German-American organization and has since become one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions.

This year, the market is spread across three locations: Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago, Gallagher Way just outside Wrigley Field, and suburban Aurora. Daley Plaza and Aurora host the largest markets, while Gallagher Way stands out for its ice rink, where visitors can skate beneath the glow of Wrigley Field’s marquee. All three locations are free to enter and open through Christmas Eve.

Whichever market you decide to visit, don’t leave without snagging a souvenir mug—one of the market’s most popular collectibles. Some vintage mugs have even fetched more than $100 on eBay. This year’s editions include a heart-shaped mug depicting a traditional German Christmas market and a classic-style mug featuring a gingerbread man in lederhosen and a gingerbread woman in a dirndl. Both sell for $10 without a drink. Guests staying at The LaSalle Chicago, Virgin Hotels Chicago, or The Allegro Royal Sonesta can even receive a mug as part of special holiday packages.

And for something truly unique, keep an eye out for the season’s surprise hit: the Krampus doll. The half-goat figure from Alpine folklore might be known for punishing naughty children, but at Chicago’s Christkindlmarket, it’s found new life as an irresistibly charming souvenir.