Since 1996, German American Events, LLC, a subsidiary of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest , has hosted the Christkindlmarket Chicago as a free event, featuring international and local vendors with various offerings for all ages. The German-style outdoor market has become so popular that it expanded to other locations in Illinois and Wisconsin. The unique shopping experience, cheerful live entertainment and original food and beverages like the imported mulled wine from Germany, called Glühwein, make the Christkindlmarket a preferred and popular destination.
In 2020, visitors were able to enjoy the tradition from the comfort and safety of their homes through the first-ever virtual Christkindlmarket “Home for the Holidays.”