Home » America Travel News » Chicago Joins New York City, Carmel, and Washington: These Ten US Christmas Markets Are Bigger, Better, and More Beautiful Than Ever – Find Out Why They’re America’s Favorites

Published on
October 13, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

As the holiday season draws near, Chicago joins New York City,I ndiana, and Washington in hosting some of the most dazzling Christmas markets in the United States. These ten U.S. Christmas markets are not just bigger, better, and more beautiful than ever; they offer a festive atmosphere that promises unforgettable memories for families and travelers alike.

From the bustling streets of New York City to the charming holiday scenes in Indiana, each market brings something unique, making them the favorites of Americans. Whether you’re looking to indulge in traditional treats, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, or simply soak in the holiday spirit, these Christmas markets deliver the magic of the season in a way you won’t forget. So, let’s explore why these ten U.S. Christmas markets are the ultimate destinations for your 2025 holiday getaway!

The holiday season in the U.S. is more than just Christmas trees and festive lights. It’s the time of year when cities across the country transform into magical winter wonderlands, especially with Christmas markets that bring the best of European traditions to American soil. For 2025, these Christmas markets are set to deliver unforgettable experiences with festive foods, handmade gifts, and twinkling lights. Here’s a look at the top U.S. cities where you can enjoy the most enchanting Christmas markets, offering fun for the whole family and a true taste of the holiday spirit.

Chicago’s Christkindlmarket: A German Tradition in the Heart of the City

In the heart of Chicago, the Christkindlmarket is a holiday tradition that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Inspired by the famous Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, Chicago’s market offers an authentic European Christmas experience right in Daley Plaza. Visitors can browse through over 50 stalls selling everything from wooden toys to festive decorations. Expect a rich selection of German foods like bratwurst, pretzels, and hot mulled wine. The entire market feels like stepping into a magical winter village, complete with twinkling lights and live entertainment. In 2025, the Christkindlmarket will expand to three locations, including Wrigleyville and Aurora, making it easier for more people to experience the joy of Christmas. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is a must-visit this season.

New York City: Union Square’s Holiday Market

Union Square in New York City is transformed into a bustling Christmas market every year, and 2025 will be no exception. Running from November 14 to December 24, this market features over 150 vendors, offering a wide range of holiday treats and unique gifts. Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry and art to delicious food like warm churros and artisanal hot chocolate. The festive environment is enhanced by charming wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a gift for someone special or just want to enjoy the holiday spirit, Union Square’s Holiday Market is the perfect spot in NYC.

Elkhart Lake: Old World Christmas Market

The Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, is a hidden gem that brings a European flair to the U.S. Located at the Osthoff Resort, this market runs from December 5 to 14, 2025. It offers a cozy atmosphere with horse-drawn wagon rides, authentic German food like potato pancakes and apple strudel, and over 100 vendors selling handcrafted ornaments and holiday decorations. The highlight of the market is its Old World charm, complete with festive music and a warm, welcoming environment. If you’re looking for an intimate and traditional holiday experience, the Old World Christmas Market is the place to be.

Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt: A Hidden Holiday Wonderland in Indiana

Carmel, Indiana, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas markets, but it’s quickly becoming a major holiday destination. The Christkindlmarkt in Carmel, open from November 22 to December 24, 2025, features a stunning 33-foot-tall Glühwein Pyramid, bringing a taste of Germany’s best traditions to the U.S. The market has more than 50 booths offering everything from local handcrafted gifts to German snacks and drinks. Whether you’re sipping hot mulled wine, enjoying a freshly made pretzel, or simply taking in the festive decorations, Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt offers a heartwarming experience for all ages.

Silverton’s Christmas Market: A Winter Wonderland in Oregon

Silverton, Oregon, is home to one of the most magical Christmas markets in the U.S., the Silverton Christmas Market, running from November 21 to December 31, 2025. The market takes place at the Oregon Garden Resort and is known for its dazzling display of over 1.5 million lights. With a snowless tubing hill, a Biergarten, and dozens of vendors selling handcrafted goods, this market is an enchanting destination for families. Visitors can also enjoy traditional German food, warm drinks, and holiday entertainment while exploring the garden’s winter landscape. If you’re looking for a festive escape in the Pacific Northwest, Silverton’s Christmas Market is a must-see this year.

Leavenworth, Washington: A Bavarian-Inspired Christmas Celebration

Leavenworth, Washington, is a charming Bavarian-themed village that celebrates Christmas like no other. Starting Thanksgiving weekend through mid-December, the town comes alive with thousands of lights and Christmas cheer. The Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival is a major attraction, with festive activities including carolers, local vendors, and outdoor ice skating. The town’s charming buildings, decorated with twinkling lights, provide the perfect backdrop for a holiday experience that feels like you’re in a European village. Visitors can shop for unique gifts, sip hot cider, and enjoy festive food while immersing themselves in a storybook Christmas atmosphere.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as “Christmas City,” hosts one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. Every year, from November 14 to December 21, Bethlehem welcomes visitors to its Christkindlmarkt. This popular event features more than 150 vendors, offering everything from holiday decorations and local crafts to delicious European-inspired foods like schnitzels and strudels. There’s also an ice skating rink, live entertainment, and visits from St. Nicholas himself. Bethlehem’s Christkindlmarkt has earned a reputation as one of the top holiday markets in the country, drawing crowds from all over to experience its festive charm.

Philadelphia’s Christmas Village: A German-Inspired Holiday Market

Philadelphia is home to the Christmas Village, located in LOVE Park. Running from November 22 to December 24, 2025, this German-style market features over 50 vendors selling holiday gifts, toys, ornaments, and festive foods. It’s the perfect place to find unique presents while enjoying traditional German food, including bratwurst, pretzels, and hot mulled wine. Visitors can also take a photo with Santa, enjoy live music, and even skate on the outdoor rink. The market is beautifully decorated, with twinkling lights and a festive atmosphere that brings the holiday spirit to the streets of Philadelphia.

San Francisco: The Great Dickens Christmas Fair

For those who want a different kind of holiday experience, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair in Daly City, California, offers a unique twist on the traditional Christmas market. Held from November 22 to December 21, 2025, this Victorian-themed market transports visitors back in time to Victorian London. The market features costumed performers, lively music halls, and even a dance floor, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the past. With over 100 vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious holiday treats, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair is the perfect place for history buffs and holiday lovers alike.

St. Paul’s European Christmas Market: A European-Inspired Winter Getaway

St. Paul, Minnesota, hosts a European-inspired Christmas market that brings the holiday spirit to the Midwest. The market, open from November 28 to December 21, 2025, features over 50 booths selling handmade gifts, delicious foods, and festive drinks. The market’s atmosphere is reminiscent of Europe’s best Christmas markets, with warm wooden stalls and plenty of holiday entertainment. Visitors can enjoy authentic German food like bratwurst, sip mulled wine, and shop for unique gifts while enjoying the market’s charming setting.

Conclusion

The U.S. is home to a wide range of Christmas markets that provide an authentic taste of European holiday traditions. Whether you’re looking for festive foods, unique gifts, or a magical holiday atmosphere, these markets offer something for everyone. From Chicago’s Christkindlmarket to Leavenworth’s Bavarian-inspired celebrations, the U.S. offers a variety of Christmas markets to make your holiday season unforgettable. Plan your trip early and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit in one of these stunning U.S. cities.