Special Events
The Christkindlmarket is always admission-free.
Looking for an extra-special market experience? Explore our 2026 lineup of ticketed events at select locations, including Culture & Cheer Tours, the Children’s Lantern Parade, Haus of Krampus, the Merry Market Experience, and more.
These unique experiences offer exclusive access, festive activities and memorable ways to celebrate the season with family and friends. Browse all available events and purchase tickets today.
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You can find the events from our 2026 season listed below.
Culture and Cheer Tour at Daley Plaza
Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Christkindlmarket Chicago with our Culture & Cheer Tour! Every Thursday to Sunday from 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM, join a German-speaking Christkindlmarket team member for a behind-the-scenes journey through Daley Plaza before the market opens to the public.
New this year: the tour will also be offered during the final three weekdays of the season on December 21,22, and 23, giving guests even more opportunities to experience the Christkindlmarket before it closes for the year. Discover the market’s rich history, German traditions, vendors, and festive spirit while enjoying exclusive early access, samples from select vendors, a souvenir mug, a beverage voucher, and other special tour-only perks.
Preview Party at Daley Plaza
Kick off the holiday season at the 11th Annual ‘Twas the Night Before Christkindlmarket Opening Night Preview Event! On Thursday, November 19, 2026, be among the first guests to experience the magic of the Christkindlmarket Chicago before it officially opens to the public. Enjoy exclusive access to vendors, festive food and drinks, live entertainment, the opening ceremony, visits with the Christkind, Santa & Mrs. Claus, and the first opportunity to receive the 2026 souvenir mugs.
Haus of Krampus at Daley Plaza
This December, Krampus returns to Christkindlmarket Chicago for a unique Christmas celebration rooted in German folklore, blending festive cheer with mischievous thrill. Step into a dark alpine wonderland filled with music, photo ops, holiday treats, and unforgettable encounters with Krampus himself. On Sunday, December 13, 2026, the Timber Haus at the Christkindlmarket Chicago transforms into Haus of Krampus, an immersive holiday hideaway featuring exclusive access to a Krampus-themed lodge, festive beverages and treats, interactive activities, and plenty of holiday mayhem.
Lantern Parades at Aurora
Celebrate the German tradition of St. Martin’s Day at the Christkindlmarket Aurora with our Children’s Lantern Parade! On Sunday, December 6, 2026 and Wednesday December 23, 2026 children will receive a lantern and special goodie bag before joining the Christkind for a festive lantern-lit stroll through the magical holiday village at the Christkindlmarket Aurora, singing songs and spreading holiday cheer along the way.
Krampus Fest at Aurora
For the first time ever, Krampus is coming to the Christkindlmarket Aurora! On Saturday, December 19, 2026, the Timber Tent at RiverEdge Park transforms into Krampus Fest, a one-day holiday experience rooted in German folklore. Step into a festive alpine hideaway featuring seasonal treats, photo opportunities with Krampus, interactive surprises, and exclusive access to a heated event space while enjoying a complimentary beverage, Bavarian pretzel, and keepsake photo print.
New: The Merry Market Experience
Celebrate 30 years of holiday magic at the Christkindlmarket Chicago withe the Merry Market Experience! Available on Saturdays and Sundays from November 21, 2026, through December 20, 2026, this self-guided scavenger hunt invites guests to discover market traditions, visit iconic vendors, and uncover hidden clues throughout Daley Plaza.
Your experience includes a 2026 souvenir flute mug, a hot cocoa or hot cider voucher, a commemorative scavenger hunt card, and a chance to win tickets to next year’s ‘Twas the Night before Christkindlmarket Preview Party. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, it’s a fun and festive way to explore the Market’s 30th Anniversary celebration.
German Wine Tasting at Aurora
This holiday season, we’re excited to announce the return of the Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEdge Park Wine Tasting! Join us for a delightful 21+ experience with views of vibrant market from above.
Holiday Glass Ornament Making at Aurora
Experience the magic of the season at the Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEdge Park and create a truly unique holiday keepsake! Join skilled artisans from Ikonic Glass to craft your own stunning ornament through the art of glassblowing. Workshops run daily in Aurora (Thursdays – Sundays) November 21 through December 24, 2025.
