Get in the Holiday Spirit at the Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt
November 17 - December 23, 2023
Wednesdays - Sundays
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is bringing a cherished old-world tradition to its grounds for the 2023 holiday season.
The Christkindl Markt at the Downtown Market is inspired by the world-famous Christmas street markets that originated in Germany in the late Middle Ages and spread to other countries. The Downtown Market is transforming its outdoor space into a European-style Christmas Village lined with artisan gift and food vendors, live holiday entertainment and festive family fun.
36 huts will feature an array of vendors selling one-of-a-kind gifts and food treats.
Photo by Bryan Esler for Experience GR
One-of-a-Kind Gifts
Vendors will be offering their wares from 35+ stalls under a new, glass-enclosed shed that protects them and you from the elements. You’ll find a tremendous array of items for holiday decorating and gift giving, including ornaments, stocking stuffers, textiles, apparel, home décor, pottery, soaps, cosmetics, candles, jewelry, handmade goods and more.
There will also be food treats for purchase – including gourmet chocolates, candy, nuts, fudge, truffle bars and teas, perfect for tucking into a stocking, under a tree or atop your holiday table.
Unique gifts and specialty items to complete your holiday shopping!
Photo by Bryan Esler for Experience GR
Mouthwatering Food & Drink
Come to the Christkindl Markt hungry because there will plenty of food to enjoy on site. Many European cuisines will be represented among the sausages, crepes, soups, donuts, waffles, pastries and sandwiches offered by vendors. Enjoy them as you stroll or reserve a private chalet – with tables, fireplace and seating for up to eight – to make it a festive meal with friends, family or co-workers.
The wooden vendor stalls line both sides of an enclosed Bavarian-style beverage hall hall serving beer, hot chocolate, hot cider, “kinderpunch” for the kids and Glühwein (“glow wine”), a delicious mulled wine. Locally owned Brewery Vivant has created a special beer exclusively for the Markt Markt: Dünk the Halls, a traditional German-style Dünkelweizen. Get your beverage in a collectible mug for unlimited refills.
Be sure to get some Glühwein (“glow wine”), a delicious mulled wine, in this Christkindl Markt mug.
Photo by Bryan Esler for Experience GR
Festive Fun for All Ages
Live entertainment will be presented on stage and street performers will roam the grounds to delight visitors. You can rent an outdoor curling sheet and try your skill at a sport that dates back to 16th century Scotland. Children’s activities include visits with Santa, storytimes, crafts and s’more roasting fireplaces.
Everything will be decorated with lights and other holiday finery, creating a magical winter wonderland that transports you a world away from downtown Grand Rapids (even though you’re within an easy walk or free bus ride of downtown hotels). Bring your smartphone because there will be endless photo opportunities and memories to capture.
The Christkindl Markt will be open five days a week: Wed.-Thu. 11am-7pm, Fri. 11am-9pm, Sat. 10am-9pm and Sun. 10am-7pm. Mark your calendar to get together with family and friends in West Michigan’s largest European Christmas Village – and start a new holiday tradition!
The Christkindl Markt is fun for family and friends of all ages!
Photo by Bryan Esler for Experience GR.
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