December has begun and this month comes with festivities of all sorts. This can range between many religions, many celebrations, and many activities. One of the most popular attractions in the Chicagoland area is the Christkindlmarket.
The market has two locations, one on 50 W Washington St. and the other on Gallagher Way, 3635 N Clark St. The Washington St. location is located in downtown Chicago whereas the Clark St. location is in Wrigleyville.
Christkindlmarket is a German tradition that has been brought down through centuries. In recent decades this has expanded to different cities and different cultures. The origin of this market derives from the German tradition of giving children gifts from this market on Christmas.
The Christkindlmarket has been a part of Chicago since 1996. It’s free to enter and has a surplus of German gifts and delicacies. For many people visiting this market has become a tradition.
For one local Chicagoan, she and her family have been coming to this market for years.
Jillian Connolly, a Chicagoan, said, “Since my children were little we have come every year, and every year we get to enjoy the great food and get some cute gifts for the nearing Christmas holiday.”
The market is a maze of little booths that hold anything from little knick knacks and ornaments to large lamps and wooden sculptures. Part of these booths include an array of food and drink options.
Some of the most popular dishes include spiced wine, German hot chocolate, pierogies, potato pancakes, and a bread and cheese dish called raclette.
Andrea Kirshnick, a Chicago resident, said, “ The raclette is my favorite thing to get and I get it only once a year at this market. You might smell something stinky and it’s the cheese but man it’s good!”
There are even collectable items at the market. Every year the market comes out with two new collectible mugs. These mugs can be purchased with both spiced wine and hot chocolate.
Jillian Connolly said, “I get the collectable mugs every year and I love having them to drink out of during Christmas time.”
Alanna Mertens, a Chicagoan, said, “I really enjoyed bringing my grandchildren and children to the market. Everyone had a great time enjoying the sights and food. I really recommend that anyone should come visit.”
The place is lit with lights and decorated with no space left. It is truly a space that gets you into the holiday spirit. It’s a great place to go with family and friends and gives you something to do on a boring weekend.
Many people travel by public transit and or by car. The market is in the heart of the city and is open from Nov. 17 to Dec. 24 and ranges between the hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Christkindlmarket is only open until Dec. 24th. According to sources, the market is amazing and is a must on your holiday to-do list.
