The 10 Best Christmas Markets To Visit Across the USA
The holiday season in the United States transforms cities, towns, and village squares into dazzling winter wonderlands. From snow-dusted streets lined with glowing lights to the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, Christmas markets across the country capture the magic of the season like nothing else.
Inspired by European traditions yet infused with local charm, these markets invite travelers to sip, shop, and celebrate. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, cozy treats, live music, and even ice skating, all set against stunning holiday backdrops. Whether it’s the bustling Christkindlmarket in Chicago or the mountain charm of Denver’s Civic Center Park, each market tells a unique story of community and joy.
This guide explores 10 of the best Christmas markets in the USA for 2025, each offering something special, be it nostalgic holiday décor, gourmet eats, or unforgettable winter experiences. So grab your scarf, warm your hands with a cup of cocoa, and let’s explore where to find the country’s most magical festive markets this December:
Best Christmas Markets in the USA 2025
Discover the most magical holiday markets across America, where twinkling lights, festive treats, and European-style charm bring the Christmas spirit to life:
Christkindlmarket Chicago, Illinois
- Dates: November 15 to December 24, 2025
- Venue: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL
- How to Reach: The market is easily accessible via the CTA Red and Blue Lines, both of which stop near Washington Station. O’Hare and Midway airports connect directly to downtown via train.
Market Details
Christkindlmarket Chicago is one of the most iconic holiday markets in the United States, attracting over a million visitors each year. Modeled after Germany’s traditional Nuremberg Christmas Market, it offers authentic wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, glassware, and festive gifts. Warm up with a mug of glühwein (mulled wine) or indulge in bratwurst and pretzels as holiday choirs fill the air with seasonal songs. The lively atmosphere, central location, and rich cultural touches make it a must-visit for anyone spending Christmas in Chicago.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Dates: November 21 to December 28, 2025
- Venue: LOVE Park and City Hall Courtyard, Philadelphia, PA
- How to Reach: Take SEPTA’s Broad Street Line to City Hall or the regional rail to Suburban Station, both within walking distance.
Market Details
Philadelphia’s Christmas Village transforms LOVE Park into a European-style winter wonderland. Wooden booths, sparkling lights, and the famous LOVE sculpture create a romantic holiday scene. Vendors from around the world sell ornaments, toys, and jewelry, while local eateries offer traditional fare like raclette, waffles, and bratwurst. A festive carousel and a massive Christmas tree complete the experience. It’s one of the most charming holiday destinations in the Northeast, blending Old World traditions with Philly’s unique character.
Christmas Village in Baltimore, Maryland
- Dates: November 23 to December 24, 2025
- Venue: Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD
- How to Reach: The market is located downtown and can be reached by Baltimore Light RailLink or bus routes from Penn Station.
Market Details
Set along Baltimore’s scenic Inner Harbor, this European-inspired market offers both indoor and outdoor sections to keep guests warm and cozy. The heated tents are filled with international vendors selling crafts, sweets, and seasonal decorations. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread, and live entertainment while gazing over the harbor lights. The combination of waterfront views and holiday cheer makes Baltimore’s Christmas Village a picturesque and welcoming stop for winter travelers.
Union Square Holiday Market, New York, New York
- Dates: November 21 to December 24, 2025
- Venue: Union Square Park, New York, NY
- How to Reach: Accessible via NYC Subway lines 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, and W to Union Square Station.
Market Details
The Union Square Holiday Market is one of New York City’s most beloved seasonal traditions. Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, it brings together over 150 vendors offering handmade gifts, artisanal food, and holiday décor. From unique jewelry to gourmet chocolates, every stall captures the creative spirit of New York. Warm drinks, live music, and festive decorations add to the ambiance. The market’s central location makes it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists exploring the city during the holidays.
Seattle Christmas Market, Washington
- Dates: November 22 to December 24, 2025
- Venue: Seattle Center, near the Space Needle, Seattle, WA
- How to Reach: Light Rail and bus lines connect directly to Seattle Center. Parking garages nearby provide easy access for drivers.
Market Details
The Seattle Christmas Market combines European holiday flair with Pacific Northwest charm. Surrounded by sparkling lights and alpine-style huts, visitors can browse artisan gifts, sample German pastries, and sip hot cider under the city’s glowing skyline. Entertainment includes carolers, live music, and family-friendly attractions. The market’s scenic location near the Space Needle makes it a festive destination for both residents and visiting travelers.
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Denver Christkindlmarket, Colorado
- Dates: November 22 to December 23, 2025
- Venue: Civic Center Park, Denver, CO
- How to Reach: The market is within walking distance of downtown Denver and Union Station. Light Rail and bus routes provide easy access.
Market Details
One of the most authentic German-style Christmas markets in the U.S., Denver Christkindlmarket offers a joyful cultural experience in the heart of the Rockies. Visitors can enjoy traditional food like schnitzel and strudel, explore handmade gifts, and watch performances by alpine dancers and musicians. The cozy beer garden and warm hospitality make it a favorite annual stop for families and travelers exploring Colorado’s winter charm.
Atlanta Christkindl Market, Georgia
- Dates: November 28 to December 24, 2025
- Venue: Buckhead Village District, Atlanta, GA
- How to Reach: Accessible via MARTA’s Red Line to Buckhead Station; public parking is also available nearby.
Market Details
Atlanta’s Christkindl Market brings German holiday traditions to the South, creating a festive European-style experience in the city’s upscale Buckhead neighborhood. Visitors can browse wooden stalls filled with crafts, ornaments, and seasonal foods, from Bavarian pretzels to roasted nuts. The warm Southern hospitality mixed with classic Christmas charm makes it a perfect holiday stop for travelers exploring Georgia during December.
Kerstmarkt Holland, Michigan
- Dates: November 29 to December 14, 2025 (weekends only)
- Venue: 150 West 8th Street, Holland, MI
- How to Reach: Located downtown, about 30 minutes from Grand Rapids. Ample parking and public buses are available.
Market Details
Rooted in Dutch heritage, Kerstmarkt in Holland, Michigan, celebrates the town’s European roots with traditional crafts, wooden shoes, and handmade holiday décor. Visitors can enjoy warm drinks, local baked goods, and live demonstrations of artisan work. The setting feels like a quaint European village, making it one of the Midwest’s most charming holiday markets.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Dates: November 22 to December 22, 2025 (weekends)
- Venue: SteelStacks, Bethlehem, PA
- How to Reach: Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is 15 minutes away; shuttle and parking are available on-site.
Market Details
Known as “Christmas City, USA,” Bethlehem hosts one of the nation’s oldest and most beloved holiday markets. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem features glass-blowing demonstrations, handmade gifts, and festive entertainment inside heated tents. The market’s mix of history, tradition, and warmth draws travelers from across the East Coast.
Providence Downcity Holiday Market, Rhode Island
- Dates: November 30 to December 22, 2025
- Venue: Westminster Street, Downtown Providence, RI
- How to Reach: Easily reachable by train via Providence Station or RIPTA bus services.
Market Details
The Providence Downcity Holiday Market offers a cozy urban holiday experience. The market highlights local artisans, independent businesses, and food vendors, creating a perfect mix of Rhode Island charm and European inspiration. Visitors can browse handmade jewelry, candles, and art while enjoying seasonal treats and live performances. It’s an ideal stop for travelers exploring New England during the festive season.
The Bottom Line
From Chicago’s world-famous Christkindlmarket to the cozy Kerstmarkt in Michigan, these Christmas markets bring the holiday spirit to life across America. Each offers something unique, whether it is European-style treats, local crafts, or stunning winter backdrops. Visiting one (or several) of these markets is a wonderful way to experience the magic of Christmas in true American style. Download this free guide to keep your Christmas market bucket list handy for 2025!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the biggest Christmas market in the USA?
Christkindlmarket Chicago is the largest, drawing over a million visitors annually.
When do most U.S. Christmas markets open?
Most begin in mid-November and run through Christmas Eve, with some lasting into late December.
Are US Christmas markets family-friendly?
Yes, nearly all feature activities for children, including Santa visits, crafts, and family entertainment.
Do I need to buy tickets to visit Christmas Markets?
Most markets are free to enter, though some events or attractions within them may require a small fee.
Which markets are best for authentic European traditions?
Denver, Chicago, and Bethlehem are known for their strong European influences, food, and vendors.
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