Chicago residents are a hardy bunch who don't let the winter's cold keep them cooped up inside, especially during the holiday seasons. That's one reason why the annual Christkindlmarket Chicago is such a phenomenon every year. Another reason is that it's just plain fun to browse the traditional wooden stalls at this German-style open-air market while sipping a mug of mulled wine or noshing on a warm pastry. The market offers a good opportunity to pick up a few gifts for friends and family (handcrafted jewelry, art, etc.), as well as some holiday ornaments or sweets for your own home. Even if you don’t purchase anything, the festive atmosphere is enough to make the Christkindlmarket an annual destination for folks from all over the city.
The market is open daily from November 15-December 24, from 11 am to 8 pm (9 pm on weekends) on Daley Plaza.