Everyone’s favorite holiday activity is set to return to The Loop next weekend as the Christkindlmarket opens up on November 18th in Daley Plaza. The annual pop-up has been checklist destination for nearly 1 million people during the holiday season offering its famous mulled wine, hot chocolate, various gifts and ornaments, as well as other food and beverage unique to the German heritage.
This year the market will be open from November 18th through December 24th and will operate in three locations total: 50 W. Washington in Downtown Chicago, Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville, and a third in Aurora.
Each year, Chicagoans travel from far and wide to get their special collectible mug—a souvenir the fest has been known for since it first started in Chicago in 1996. This year, however, the collectible isn’t a boot (traditional to German markets). According to sources, it is a true mug and will display iconic Chicago buildings on it such as Willis Tower, the John Hancock Building, the Crain Communications Building, Marina Towers, and 311 S. Wacker Drive—otherwise known as the engagement ring building.
Hours of Operation for 2022
Sunday to Thursday — 11am to 8pm
Friday and Saturday — 11am to 9pm
Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve — 11am to 4pm
Christmas Day — CLOSED
For me, the Christkindlmarket is always a must-visit around the holiday season. Whether it be with family, a significant other, or just by yourself as you stroll on a lunch break, it’s the perfect little pop-up to spend an hour or two of your day. Whenever I go I make it my every effort to get raclette and some mulled wine and a beer of choice. It’s also great spot to do whatever last minute holiday shopping that slipped through the cracks for little trinkets and gifts for grandparents that will likely live on the chimney mantle forever.
Even though the weather has been unseasonably warm of late, the Christkindlmarket is a true benchmark that the holiday season is upon us. If you’re heading down to Daley Plaze this holiday season for the annual Christkindlmaket, utilize the iParkIt app to find competitive pricing, the best garage locations, and seamless parking experiences within walking distance of The Loop. We’ll see you there!