The Loop is Making Christmasland Real!

Imagine being old Jack Skellington, walking into a winter wonderland of Christmas fun. That’s how people feel walking into the Christkindle Market in Chicago - overwhelmed, overjoyed, overstimulated and over crowded. And for Chicago’s Loop, this is all a welcome thing.

This annual event, held in the downtown area of the Loop, attracts over a million visitors through the month before Christmas. This “vibey” and “happening” German-inspired event is an intersection of authentic Chicago and classic Germanic foods, drinks and goods. On offer amongst the fairy-lit stalls, you will find traditional German strudels and bratwurst, gluhwein and craft beers, locally-made sausage and sticky desserts of all shapes and sizes. 

Santa’s house always delights the kids, so don’t pass up a selfie photo-op with Santa and his little helpers. Alternatively, you might be able to introduce them to the real live Christmas Fairy, who looks like she flew down from the top of the tree to mingle for the evening. She is a vision in gold and offers a wealth of knowledge about the market and its origins.

If you are shopping for gifts or tree decorations, you can have your pick of hand-blown glass ornaments, beautifully-painted and ready to hang. You will also find a dizzying range of traditional, handmade wooden toys, woolen garments and artworks. The options are limitless.

It’s an experience not to be missed. And it’s a sign there IS vitality in Chicago’s downtown.  Bring your family and friends along (tell them to go to the office for the work-day leading up) and enjoy a hot cup of cocoa in what feels like a bustling downtown area. 

This is where it’s happening. Whether day or nightlife, the Loop is the best place to go for fun, excitement and for Christmas spirit.