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Top 5: Christmas Markets in the United States

by Katie Skrzek

Nov 20, 2015

Christkindlmarkt, Denver, Colorado © Amy Aleitheia Cahill | Flickr

North America

While Germany might be the first destination brought to mind when you hear “Christmas market,” the United States boasts many impressive shopping spots, some similar to the traditional German variety. These are our favorites.

 

Christkindlmarkt, Chicago, Illinois © Fuzzy Gerdes | Flickr

© Fuzzy Gerdes | Flickr

 

Chicago

Christkindlmarkt, located in the Chicago Loop, draws visitors with its authentic German goods and activities. Chicago’s market is closely inspired by the one in Nuremberg. Open daily, this year’s event takes place Nov. 20–Dec. 24. Admission is free.

 

1 Christkindlmarkt, Denver, Colorado © Amy Aleitheia Cahill | Flickr

© Amy Aleitheia Cahill | Flickr

 

Denver

In the traditional German style, Denver’s Christkindlmarkt features handcrafted items from all over Europe including German steins, Polish pottery and Ukrainian Christmas ornaments. Bavarian treats are also for sale. The 15th annual market takes place at Skyline Park Nov. 20–Dec. 23.

 

 

New York City

New York City boasts several markets throughout town, though Winter Village in Bryant Park is our favorite. More than 125 boutique shops sell Christmas gifts and snacks. The holiday shops are open Oct. 30, 2015–January 3, 2016. Make sure you check out the famous Bryant Park ice skating rink during your visit.

 

Christmas Village, Love Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania © Kevin Burkett | Flickr

© Kevin Burkett | Flickr

 

Philadelphia

Christmas Village in Philadelphia takes over the city’s LOVE Park Nov. 21–Dec. 27 this year. More than 60 vendors sell European food, Christmas gifts, jewelry and other handcrafted items.

 

 

San Francisco

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is an interactive experience inspired by Charles Dickens’ Victorian London. Explore 120,000 square feet of vendors and entertainment. Held at the Cow Palace exhibition hall, this year’s event runs Nov. 21–Dec. 20. Group tickets and special discounts are available.

 

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