Chicagos Best Christmas Markets To Visit This Season

Chicago is a city that truly comes alive during the holiday season. The snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, and warm atmosphere make it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. One of the best ways to experience the magic of Christmas in Chicago is by visiting one of the many Christmas markets that pop up around the city. From traditional German-style markets to modern, trendy events, there's something for everyone in Chicago's Christmas market scene.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, Chicago's Christmas markets offer a fun and festive way to spend an afternoon or evening. You can browse stalls selling handmade crafts, try local foods and drinks, and even pick up some unique gifts for your loved ones. And, of course, no Christmas market would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus himself.

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best Christmas markets to visit in Chicago this season. From classic favorites to new and exciting events, we've got you covered.

Christkindlmarket

One of the most famous and beloved Christmas markets in Chicago is Christkindlmarket. Located in Daley Plaza, this traditional German-style market has been a holiday staple for over 25 years. Visitors can browse over 50 stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and other unique gifts. You can also try traditional German foods like sausages, strudel, and mulled wine.

Christkindlmarket is open from late November to Christmas Eve, and admission is free. It's the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit and find some special gifts for your loved ones.

Getting There

Christkindlmarket is located in Daley Plaza, which is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest 'L' stop is the Washington/Wabash station, which is served by the Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple lines.

Lincoln Park ZooLights

If you're looking for a more modern and trendy Christmas market experience, Lincoln Park ZooLights is the place to be. This annual event transforms the Lincoln Park Zoo into a winter wonderland, with over a million lights and a festive atmosphere.

Visitors can browse stalls selling local goods and gifts, try food and drinks from some of Chicago's top vendors, and even take a ride on the zoo's carousel or Ferris wheel. And, of course, no visit to ZooLights would be complete without seeing the zoo's amazing animal exhibits.

Lincoln Park ZooLights is open from late November to early January, and admission is free. It's a fun and festive event that's perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

Special Events

Lincoln Park ZooLights also hosts a number of special events throughout the season, including a holiday market, a festive beer garden, and even a New Year's Eve party. Be sure to check the zoo's website for more information and to plan your visit.

Millennium Park Winter Market

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Millennium Park Winter Market is a modern and trendy Christmas market that offers something for everyone. Visitors can browse stalls selling local goods and gifts, try food and drinks from some of Chicago's top vendors, and even take a stroll through the beautiful Lurie Garden.

The Millennium Park Winter Market is open from late November to early January, and admission is free. It's a great place to grab a cup of hot chocolate and do some holiday shopping, or just enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Ice Skating

One of the highlights of the Millennium Park Winter Market is the outdoor ice skating rink. Visitors can rent skates and enjoy a fun day of ice skating in the heart of downtown Chicago.

Chicago Botanic Garden Wonderland Express

If you're looking for a more unique and festive Christmas market experience, the Chicago Botanic Garden's Wonderland Express is the place to be. This annual event features a beautiful display of model trains and a festive holiday market.

Visitors can browse stalls selling local goods and gifts, try food and drinks, and even take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. The Wonderland Express is open from late November to early January, and admission is free.

Special Events

The Chicago Botanic Garden also hosts a number of special events throughout the season, including a holiday lights display, a festive beer garden, and even a New Year's Eve party. Be sure to check the garden's website for more information and to plan your visit.

Other Christmas Markets to Visit

In addition to these popular Christmas markets, there are many other festive events and markets to visit in Chicago. Some other notable mentions include:

• The Randolph Street Market's Holiday Market, which features a wide range of local vendors and gifts.
• The One of a Kind Show and Sale, which features handmade crafts and gifts from local artists.
• The Christkindlmarket in Naperville, which is a smaller but still festive Christmas market located in the western suburbs.

No matter which Christmas market you choose to visit, you're sure to have a fun and festive time. So grab a cup of hot chocolate and get into the holiday spirit!

We hope you enjoyed this article about Chicago's best Christmas markets. If you have any questions or comments, please let us know in the section below.