Leavenworth Christmas Market: A Winter Wonderland Experience

Leavenworth, a small Bavarian-themed town in Washington State, transforms into a winter wonderland each year with the arrival of the Leavenworth Christmas Market. This festive event has become a beloved holiday tradition, attracting visitors from all over the world. The market's unique blend of German-style festivities, snowy landscapes, and small-town charm makes it an unmissable experience for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

The Leavenworth Christmas Market is a six-week celebration that takes place from late November to mid-December. During this time, the town is decked out in festive lights, garlands, and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that's sure to captivate visitors of all ages. The market itself features over 150 vendors selling handmade crafts, artwork, and delicious food, including traditional German fare like bratwurst, schnitzel, and strudel.

One of the highlights of the Leavenworth Christmas Market is the festive atmosphere, which is expertly crafted to transport visitors to a traditional German Christmas market. The sound of laughter, music, and clinking glasses fills the air, while the scent of roasting nuts, cinnamon, and mulled wine wafts through the streets, enticing visitors to indulge in the local delicacies.

What to Expect at the Leavenworth Christmas Market

The Leavenworth Christmas Market is a treasure trove of holiday delights, with something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few of the things you can expect to find at the market:

• Handmade Crafts: From intricate woodcarvings to delicate glass ornaments, the market features a wide range of handmade crafts that make perfect holiday gifts.
• Traditional German Food: Indulge in traditional German delicacies like bratwurst, schnitzel, and strudel, as well as local specialties like salmon and apple cider.
• Holiday Entertainment: Enjoy live music, caroling, and other festive entertainment, including visits from Santa Claus himself.
• Bavarian-themed Activities: Take part in traditional Bavarian activities like beer gardens, polka dancing, and Nutcracker performances.

Top Tips for Visiting the Leavenworth Christmas Market

To make the most of your visit to the Leavenworth Christmas Market, here are a few top tips to keep in mind:

• Plan Ahead: The market can get busy, especially on weekends and closer to Christmas. Plan your visit in advance to avoid the crowds.
• Dress Warmly: Leavenworth can get chilly in the winter, so make sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring Cash: While many vendors accept credit cards, it's a good idea to bring some cash as well, especially for smaller purchases.
• Arrive Early: Get to the market early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.

A Brief History of the Leavenworth Christmas Market

The Leavenworth Christmas Market has a rich history that dates back to the 1960s, when the town first began to transform itself into a Bavarian-themed winter wonderland. The market itself was established in the 1990s, as a way to attract visitors to the town during the off-season.

Over the years, the market has grown and evolved, featuring more vendors, entertainment, and activities than ever before. Today, the Leavenworth Christmas Market is one of the most popular holiday events in the Pacific Northwest, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Getting to the Leavenworth Christmas Market

The Leavenworth Christmas Market is located in the heart of Leavenworth, Washington, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are a few options for getting to the market:

• By Car: Leavenworth is located about 2 hours east of Seattle, and 4 hours west of Spokane. Parking is available in several lots throughout the town.
• By Bus: The Leavenworth Shuttle and Link Transit offer bus services from nearby towns and cities.
• By Train: The Amtrak Empire Builder train stops in nearby Wenatchee, which is about 30 minutes from Leavenworth.

Accommodations in Leavenworth

Leavenworth offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels and resorts. Here are a few options to consider:

• The Leavenworth Village Inn: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Leavenworth, and offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant and bar.
• The Icicle Inn: This family-friendly hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, and restaurant, as well as comfortable rooms and suites.
• The Leavenworth Mountain Springs Resort: This luxury resort offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

Things to Do in Leavenworth Beyond the Christmas Market

While the Leavenworth Christmas Market is the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in Leavenworth beyond the market. Here are a few ideas:

• Hiking and Skiing: Leavenworth is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
• Wine Tasting: The Leavenworth area is home to several wineries and tasting rooms, offering a range of wines and ciders.
• Shopping and Dining: Leavenworth's charming downtown area features a range of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering everything from handmade crafts to gourmet meals.

We hope this article has given you a sense of what to expect from the Leavenworth Christmas Market, and inspired you to start planning your visit. Whether you're looking for a fun and festive holiday experience, or simply a chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful winter wonderland, Leavenworth has something for everyone.