1. Downtown Holiday Market in Washington, D.C.
This outdoor event is like an entire Christmas shopping village, set up at the nation’s capital for 30 days every year. Along with diverse food options, ranging from sizzling barbeques and Spanish empanadas, you can enjoy a rotating line of country and jazz artists, making this fair worth multiple visits. There are outdoor fire pits, unlimited cocktail hours, VR hubs, specialty coffee shops, etc., to make your holidays memorable. The market opens ahead of Thanksgiving week, and the celebrations run until Christmas Eve.
2. Nutcracker Market in Houston, Texas
Houston’s Nutcracker Christmas market is a signature ballet market that kicks off the festive season in style. The four-day festive event is a true shopping extravaganza featuring more than 260 merchants selling unique toys, apparel, and home decor items. The market is also known for its iconic Christmas-time ballet, which you should experience at least once. The festival is also a fundraiser as a part of ticket sales, and shopping goes to fund scholarship programs for Houston Ballet Academy.
3. Julefest in Solvang, California
One of the most magical Christmas towns in the world, Solvang, organizes the yearly JuleFest. It is a month-long Danish-style celebration that extends well beyond New Year’s. The Tree Lighting ceremony with dancers and ballerinas, the traditional JuleFest parade, the Maker’s Market, where local artisans offer one-of-a-kind gift ideas, and the Solvang Christmas Tree Burn are all events to look forward to at this festival. Join your loved ones to enjoy events like scavenger hunts, evening candlelight tours of the town, visits with Santa, etc., at this fun-filled event.
4. Christkindlmarket, Chicago
Are you looking for an authentic German Christmas market experience in the US? Look no further. The Christkindlmarket in Chicago, inspired by the 16th century Chirstkindlmarkets in Nuremberg, Germany, is the place to be, with aromas of bratwurst and wine filling the air and steaming cups of gluhwein to keep you company in chilly Chicago winters. Similar markets in Aurora and Wrigleyville have family-friendly activities, music, snacks, and shows that educate kids about German traditions. The markets are open from mid-November till Christmas Eve.
5. Kerstmarkt in Holland, Michigan
Head to Holland, one of the most festive towns in Michigan, to indulge in traditional Dutch-styled Christmas markets. The annual 18-booth Kerstmarkt is held every weekend from mid-November to mid-December. Handmade gift shops, traditional Dutch and German food stalls, live music, and the Sinterklaas (Dutch equivalent of Christmas Eve) processional are the highlights of this festival. The organizers arrange a special Farmer’s market every Saturday for visitors to interact and shop with local farmers and producers.
6. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair, Daly City
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair occurs in the iconic Cow Palace Halls, Daly City. It will take you back in time through the lanes of Victorian London with its Dickens-themed events and activities. Performers and vendors at the market dress as Dickens popular characters, and the lamp-lit streets match the setting of Dickens novels. Spend some time here and enjoy a craft beer in English pubs, attend chocolate-tasting sessions, watch live historical dramas, and interact with characters like Tiny Tim and Father Christmas. Make sure to buy the tickets on their website in advance, as they sell out quickly.
7. Tomball German Fest, Texas
The Tomball Fest is an open music and street shopping Christmas festival held every year in early December. The 150+ stalls and gift shops selling traditional German crafts are a specialty of this festival, along with music concerts, dance acts, and a kid’s carnival. This open street festival has artists performing at every corner, and entry is free for all. The German heritage festival is known all over the country for its friendly atmosphere and tempting holiday treats made by locals.
8. Union Square Holiday Market, NYC
New York, the quintessential Christmas city, hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the US. This internationally renowned German-styled market is inspired by its European counterparts, featuring over 160 shops and food stalls. From traditional German ornaments, linens, kitchenware, and toys to authentic German delicacies like Bratwurst and Schnitzels, there is something for everyone here. While here, do not miss a chance to indulge in specialty holiday cakes. The festival is open from mid-November to Christmas Eve every year.
European Christmas markets were the first markets set up to celebrate the arrival of the holiday season. With time, the tradition slowly spread worldwide and in the US. Expansive markets and fairs are held in every major city and town. Each market has its setup and unique Christmas decorations for the visitors.
Some organize huge carnivals and street concerts, making it a winter wonderland, while some prefer to keep it simple and traditional with Christmas carols and Santa Claus. The aim, however, is to rekindle the spirit of joy amongst the residents and tourists and celebrate the festivals together while, at the same time, supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses. So, don’t miss this chance to experience the kaleidoscope of culture, color, music, and lights—it's your chance to feel truly festive!
