Carmel Christkindlmarkt Named Nation’s Best Christmas Market: 12 Most Charming Holiday Villages

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You don’t need to travel abroad to experience the charm of a European holiday village. For the fourth time since 2019, Carmel, Indiana’s Christkindlmarkt took first place in USA Today ’s annual Christmas market ranking.

The competition gives readers the opportunity to vote for their favorite nationwide events from a pool of expert-nominated options. Voters ranked Carmel Christkindlmarkt No. 1 for its authentic elements of German cultural heritage and festive, family-friendly appeal.

Though Carmel took the top spot, festive families from coast to coast can still find award-winning Christmas markets 

12 Best Christmas Markets in the US

Though these American markets don’t share the centuries-old histories of their European counterparts, they capture the same sense of magic and holiday whimsy.

Carmel Christkindlmarkt – Indiana

The German-inspired Carmel Christkindlmarkt, launched in 2017, enchants visitors with its seasonal attractions, traditional foods, and unique gift items. Highlights include the ice-skating rink, Glühwein Gallop 5k race, and live cultural performances of holiday carols, yodeling, dancing, and more. The Werkstatt, a workshop hosting German artisans, and the 33-foot Glühwein Pyramid are also must-sees.  

Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt – Pennsylvania

Families have traveled far and wide for decades to experience the Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt. SteelStacks, a former manufacturing plant turned event venue, hosts the festivities. Visitors can shop for handcrafted goods, one-of-a-kind gifts, and gourmet treats sold by local and international vendors. 

There’s no shortage of delicious delights, from American favorites like hot dogs and burgers to German classics such as Wiener schnitzel and potato pancakes. You can also expect family-friendly entertainment, including carolers and jazz ensembles.

European Christmas Market – Minnesota

This season, visit St. Paul for the beloved European Christmas Market. This authentic holiday event combines German, Austrian, and other European influences for an old-fashioned affair the entire family will love. 

With over 70 vendors, hands-on workshops, and live performers, you could spend hours at this charming market. Little ones will enjoy the train, carousel, and craft activities in the South Village area.

Denver Christkindlmarket – Colorado

The Denver Christkindlmarket is a festive event set against the picturesque Rocky Mountains. Wooden stalls overtake downtown Denver’s centrally-located Civic Center Park for this annual German holiday celebration. 

Bundle up in tights, gloves, and scarves to admire the illuminated Mile High Tree, meet St. Nikolaus and Krampus, and sip a Bavarian beer while strolling the market. The Denver Christkindlmarket also holds themed runs, like “Ugly Sweater” and “‘70s Night.”

Old World Christmas Market – Wisconsin

Many holiday lovers agree that the Old World Christmas Market is among the best in the country. It boasts a blend of international offerings, from German food to Turkish apparel and Czech knickknacks. 

The market takes place under a spacious heated tent, keeping visitors comfortable and warm while they browse the stalls. You’ll have no issues stuffing your bag with everything on your Christmas wishlist and more.

DC Holiday Market – Washington, DC

The DC Holiday Market — formerly the Downtown Holiday Market — attracts locals and tourists eager to feel the festive spirit. Over 30 vendors selling clothes, gifts, and toys participate in the annual event hosted at Dupont Circle. 

The market’s live musical concerts, including jazz, rock, international folk, and a capella, will fill you with holiday cheer. Don’t forget to swing by Migue’s Mini Donuts, where these tiny delights are freshly prepared before your eyes.  

Savannah Christmas Market – Georgia

For old-fashioned charm, head to Georgia for the Savannah Christmas Market. The event occurs annually on the famous River Street, a scenic waterfront destination with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants. 

The Savannah Christmas Market combines European-style attractions with Southern hospitality for a unique experience. The cheery market offers shoppers everything from Ecuadorian accessories to Turkish ceramics. Savannah is an enchanting city whose holiday market lives up to its setting. 

Christkindlmarket Chicago – Illinois

Chicago’s Christkindlmarket has been captivating millions annually since 1996. This jolly German-inspired celebration has something for the entire family to enjoy. Delicious culinary offerings include stuffed pretzels, pierogies, baked raclette cheese, and Belgian hot chocolate. 

Meanwhile, browse handmade glass art, organic beauty products, and Black Forest cuckoo clocks while meandering down the aisles of artisan booths. Whatever you want to taste or shop for this season, the Christkindlmarket Chicago has it and much more. 

Christmas Village in Philadelphia – Pennsylvania

Strolling through the Christmas Village in Philadelphia, you might wonder if you’ve stumbled into Germany. The authentic holiday market features rides, food, and special events for visitors of all ages. Its two-story carousel and Ferris wheel, in particular, will appeal to families with young children. 

Christmas Village highlights include German dancing performances, Santa meet-and-greets, and festive games like a bratwurst-eating contest. Warm up with a cup of mulled wine, snack on a comforting bowl of spaetzle, and shop to your heart’s content. 

Kerstmarkt – Michigan

Kerstmarkt will transport you to the Netherlands without stepping foot outside the country. Holland, a quaint Michigan town famous for its picturesque windmills and tulip beds, hosts the Dutch-inspired event annually. 

It began as a small holiday celebration in 1997 and has become an exciting affair worth traveling for. Over 30 rotating vendors gather to sell their wares at the market, where you can also watch dog sled demos, listen to carolers, and meet Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Saint Nicholas.

Winter Village at Bryant Park – New York

New York City is one of the most magical places in the country to celebrate Christmas. While the city offers many seasonal events, the Winter Village at Bryant Park is a can’t-miss. Thrillist ranked it among the world’s best holiday markets in 2024. 

This legendary market will bring all your Christmas wishes to life with ice skating, igloos, kiosks, and a food hall. You could spend an entire day at the Winter Village without seeing everything it offers, making it an essential New York experience. 

Solvang Julefest Makers Market – California

There’s no better place to immerse yourself in holiday cheer than the Solvang Julefest Makers Market. Solvang, a Danish-style town in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, is festive year-round. However, the destination truly shines during its December Julefest celebration, when it’s warm enough to swap pants for shorts but still brimming with seasonal merriment. 

The Makers Market, hosted three nights in December, is a popular seasonal draw for many. With Solvang Park as the charming backdrop, guests support local artisans in a cozy, family-friendly environment. Expect to see an impressive assortment of handmade apparel, one-of-a-kind goods, and specialty foods available for purchase.  

This article was produced by Media Decision  and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.