READ TIME 5 MIN – The holiday season is back in full swing across Chicagoland, and we’re thrilled to announce the return of beloved festivities at the Christkindlmarket Chicago and Christkindlmarket Aurora, plus a thrilling new twist. From cozy traditions to bold new experiences, there’s something for everyone.
Discover all the enchanting events that will make your Christkindlmarket experience truly magical. Be sure to check out the details below and reserve your tickets early as spots are limited and sell out fast.
Thursday, November 20, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm
The Christkindlmarket invites you to kick off the holiday season at the 10th Annual ‘Twas the Night Before Christkindlmarket Opening Night Preview Event at Daley Plaza. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with holiday cheer, exclusive entertainment, and early access to the market before it opens to the public. Be the first to experience the magic in a cozy intimate setting. Explore the market, meet & greet the Christkind and Santa, and take home the 2025 Heart Mug before anyone else. This beloved event sells out quickly so do not miss your chance to celebrate the season in style. Get your tickets now and make unforgettable memories at the ‘Twas the Night Before Christkindlmarket Preview Party!
Sunday, December 14, 2025 from 11 am to 8 pm
This December, the Christkindlmarket Chicago invites you to celebrate the holidays with a twist as the legendary Krampus takes center stage in a thrilling blend of festive cheer and folklore. For the first time ever, the Timber Haus transforms into the Haus of Krampus, a moody alpine escape filled with music, holiday treats, and mischievous magic. Guests can meet Krampus himself, snap photos at three immersive stations, and revel in the playful chaos of this dark counterpart to St. Nicholas. But beware, with multiple Krampuses roaming, no one is safe from their watchful gaze… and if you misbehave, you might just find yourself in his burlap sack. Get your ticket now before Krampus adds you to his naughty list!
November 21 – December 21 and December 22 from 10:15 am to 11:00 am
For nearly 30 years, the Christkindlmarket has been Chicago’s most cherished holiday tradition and now you can step behind the scenes with the Culture and Cheer Tour, a guided experience led by a German speaking Christkindlmarket team member. This intimate morning tour lets you enter the market before it opens to the public just as vendors are setting up for the day. While booths will remain closed during the tour, you will gain insider knowledge about the market’s history, vendor specialties, and festive traditions. Each tour includes a playful “Deutschminute” to learn authentic German holiday phrases along with a goodie bag filled with Christkindlmarket treats including our annual heart mug and hot chocolate voucher. Dedicated photo spots will be highlighted by your guide though some areas may be off limits for filming. With only 45 spots available per tour, tickets sell quickly so reserve yours now and start your day with a dose of holiday magic.
November 29, December 6, and December 7, 2025 from 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Elevate your holiday season with a festive Wine Tasting experience on the SkyDeck at RiverEdge Park. Enjoy sweeping views of Downtown Aurora and the enchanting Christkindlmarket while indulging in imported German and Austrian wines, including exclusive Glühwein flavors available only at this event. Each ticket includes a 2025 Heart Mug and a mulled wine voucher redeemable at any market bar after your tasting. This cozy, one-hour tasting is for guests 21+ only, and spots are limited. Secure your tickets today.
November 21 – December 24 (daily)
The beloved glassblowing workshop returns for the 2025 season with even more dates, time slots, and ornament styles to choose from. Join the skilled artisans of Ikonic Glass to create your own dazzling holiday ornament. You will select your shape and colors, then craft a personalized piece over a torch flame with expert guidance in just 20 minutes. This hands-on experience is a festive favorite and a chance to make a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Workshops run from November 21 to December 24 so reserve your tickets now to secure your spot.
November 30 & December 5, 2025 from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm
Bring the whole family to the Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEdge Park for festive fun and cherished traditions. Inspired by the beloved St. Martin celebration, our enchanting lantern parades invite children to carry glowing battery-operated paper lanterns and sing carols alongside the Christkind, the namesake of the market. On December 5, Saint Nikolaus will join for a special appearance and photo opportunities. After the parade, each child will receive a special goodie bag to take home. The parades will light up Aurora on Sunday, November 30 and Friday, December 5, beginning at 4:30 pm. This is a ticketed event with limited availability, so grab your spots early.
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