If visiting a European Christmas market is still on your wish list for another year, don’t worry! There are many spots in the U.S. that offer a similar magical experience without the need for a passport or a lengthy flight. You’ll find warm Glühwein to sip, unique handcrafted goods to purchase, and a festive atmosphere reminiscent of charming German, Dutch, or Scandinavian towns.

Here are my favorite picks for the best European-inspired Christmas markets across the United States. They take place in large cities and small towns alike, bringing a joyful holiday spirit and a slice of that enchanting Old World Christmas charm.

HOLIDAY HOTELS: Explore 16 festive family-friendly resorts and hotels to enjoy this Christmas season.

1. Carmel Christkindlmarkt

Carmel, Indiana

Established in 2017, the nonprofit Carmel Christkindlmarkt attracts nearly half a million visitors each year to Carter Green in Hamilton County, Indiana. The market runs from November 23 to December 24, 2024, hosting German craftspeople and artisans showcasing their creations in charming wooden stalls.

You can enjoy a variety of festive foods and drinks, including a new German cocktail this year known as feuerzangenbowle, which is served with a flaming rum-soaked sugar cone. Don’t forget to skate on the outdoor ice rink and visit the impressive 33-foot-tall Glühwein Pyramid.

Where to stay: Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection offers a boutique hotel experience just steps away from the market, and is ideally located in the bustling Carmel City Center alongside the scenic Monon Trail.

2. Texas Christkindl Market

Arlington, Texas

Since its inception in 2011, the Texas Christkindl Market has been a beloved local event, inspired by Arlington’s friendship with its German sister city, Bad Königshofen. Open through December 23, 2024 (with a short break during Thanksgiving), this German-style market features artisans from around the globe, including exclusive holiday merchandise from Käthe Wohlfahrt, all set in a beautifully decorated space at the North Plaza of Globe Life Field. Families will enjoy seasonal treats and attractions like a Marionette Theater and a Holiday Train for kids, along with live performances by local schools and traditional German music artists.

Where to stay: The Loews Arlington Hotel is your best bet for easy access to the Christmas market and offers numerous family-friendly facilities, including fire pits, a kids’ club, and an Italian restaurant with two impressively large wood-fired pizza ovens.

3. Christkindlmarket Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

Modeled after the 16th-century Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, Christkindlmarket Chicago returns for its 28th season at Daley Plaza. This popular annual event runs until December 24, 2024, and features a wide array of vendors, along with holiday musical performances throughout the season. While shopping, adults can indulge in imported hot spiced wine while everyone enjoys delicious stuffed pretzels, pierogis, and various other German delicacies.

Where to stay: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection is a partner hotel offering special deals for Christkindlmarket attendees. It is located just four blocks from the market and features spacious rooms averaging 400 square feet along with luxurious amenities.

4. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

As “the Christmas City,” it’s fitting to host a beloved holiday market. Now celebrating its 32nd year, Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem runs on weekends until December 22, 2024, offering a plethora of German-style festive delights. You can shop for items like Moravian glass stars, nutcrackers, and ornaments crafted by Käthe Wohlfahrt from Germany, as well as other handmade goods from local and regional artists. Activities include ice skating, live ice sculptures, and visits with Old St. Nicholas.

Where to stay: Experience the festive atmosphere at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem, featuring over 25 intricately decorated Christmas trees, two life-sized nutcrackers, a gingerbread house modeled after the hotel, and many other holiday decorations.

5. Solvang Julefest

Solvang, California

Experience the holiday season in a Danish fashion at the Solvang Julefest, featuring a European-style open-air Maker’s Market every Wednesday throughout December. Indulge in seasonal treats, discover local craftspeople selling unique gifts, and soak in plenty of holiday spirit. The Julefest runs from November 29, 2024, until January 5, 2025, and includes live music performances, Santa photo opportunities, and a delightful 10-minute light and sound show hourly each night.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room at The Landsby, a Scandinavian-style boutique hotel that has been recently updated, placing you right at the heart of Solvang and just a short walk from Solvang Park, the site of the Julefest festivities.

6. Holland Kerstmarkt

Holland, Michigan

Treat yourself to speculaas cookies, stroopwafels, and stollen at the Holland Kerstmarkt. This charming Dutch-inspired Christmas market is located near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, close to Grand Rapids. Vendors gather on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and continue to sell through the weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas, offering holiday shopping filled with caroling, dog sled demonstrations, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Where to stay: The Courtyard Holland Downtown offers modern accommodations, a fitness area, an indoor pool, and a bright, new lobby that’s perfect for grabbing coffee or cocktails—all within easy reach of downtown Holland’s attractions.

7. Denver Christkindlmarket

Denver, Colorado

Savor a hot chocolate, Bavarian bier, or traditional Glühwein as you wander through the Denver Christkindlmarket, taking place from November 22 to December 23, 2024, at Civic Center Park. Over 40 vendors from Colorado and beyond will offer crafts, gifts, and treats from charming wooden stalls in this festive German-style market. Enjoy live entertainment throughout the festival and possibly meet St. Nikolaus or Krampus.

Where to stay: Choose Staybridge Suites Denver Downtown for spacious suites equipped with kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool, all conveniently located near Civic Center Park and other Denver attractions, making it perfect for families during the holidays.

These charming European-style Christmas markets are right here in the US originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of YSL News. FamilyVacationist.com

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