The Carmel Christkindlmarkt returns and we couldn't be happier
It's official: The Carmel Christkindlmarkt reopens for its third year this weekend. {And if you're reading this after the fact, skim some deets then head out already!} If you're already baffled by this new holiday tradition, believing our editor accidentally removed a few vowels, we confirm now that yes, this spelling is accurate.
First, what is a Christkindlmarkt? Well split that Spell Bowl-worthy word apart and you'll probably get the gist. It's a Christmas street market, originated in Germany, which celebrates Christmas in the four weeks of Advent. According to Carmel's website, "These markets feature a delightful blend of holiday food, drinks, gifts, and decorations. Various regions of Germany became well-known for their hand-crafted Christmas decorations, wood-working, artwork, or textiles."
Right, right, but why should I go?
We hear ya. With the depth of holiday-ready activities going on in the city of Indianapolis, it's tough selecting favorites or where to spend some share of wallet. The Christkindlmarkt committee has artfully blended old world traditions with fun, family offerings.Located on the Center Green between the Palladium and Civic Theatre, the Christkindlmarkt is dotted with small buildings, each outfitted as a mini shop or eatery. These are the huts. Huts are divided into two categories: Food + Beverage or Gifts + Ornaments.Visiting them individually can occupy the majority of your visit, but it's worth it to discover some beauties like the train display in a mini European village {Christkindlmarkt Express}, traditional German lace {Vogel German Lace}, or cuckoo clocks {Klassische Holzkunst}.Here's what CityMom Liz had to say after visiting the media preview day at the Christkindlmarkt: "One of my favorite huts to visit -and you should too - is the handcrafted steins! Not just for those of us who love beer, but for anyone who enjoys beautiful land historic art. Each stein is made with care, and a love of German culture and history. The colors are vibrant, and they make an excellent display piece in a fun bar area in any home."
What other things are there to do besides shop?
Great question. Lace up your skating shoes because the rink is killer. And yes kids are allowed. OR, if you're hitting up the Christkindlmarkt sans kids, may we suggest hitting up the Gluhwein Pyramid for some warm drinks? Mulled wine, German beers and okay, they have kid drinks too but really, we can see hanging here for an MNO as long as we can handle it.
You've got me hooked. Now tell me why I should bring the kids along.
Girl, we know. Sometimes big festivals can be fun, and sometimes they're a major stressor with children in tow. But we promise this is worth the family outing. This year the Kinderecke Kids Corner is the stop you need. It's a 'safe place for families to color, craft and play together.' and is located inside hut #46 between the Carmel Pyramid and The Tarkington Theatre.
LOOKING FOR MORE HOLIDAY SIGHTS? We're spilling our fave holiday lights displays in Indy. You should go.
Here's what CityMom Liz had to say about this hotspot: "For our CityMoms + kiddos this might be where you end up spending a good portion of your time! Every day, this area will be a fun and festive land for the kiddos to visit, color, and experience what the season is all about. Kinderecke is a safe place for families to craft and play together. Through out the run, there will be different shows, guests, and crafts for families to try out. Including a visit from the Pacemates and Boomer! {PRO TIP: If you get your Kinder Club passport stamped at 5 different huts - you get to turn it in for a special prize aka a great way for mom to see more than just the kids area ha!}."But really between all the festivities, activities, shopping, skating and kinder-kinda fun, it's clear the organizers have brainstormed every little element that matters to visitors and families. And that's why it's our new fave thing.
MORE INFO: The Carmel Christkindlmarkt runs November 16-December 24, 2019. It will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Days of operation are: Wednesdays-Thursdays from 4-9pm, Fridays-Sundays from 12-9pm. This attraction is closed Mondays-Tuesdays. Admission is free. For additional details, a map of vendors, schedule of activities or more, visit their website at carmelchristkindlmarkt.com/. Special thanks to the Carmel Christkindlmarkt team, but especially to CityMom Jenna for her gorgeous photos from this year's media preview!
