It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
I was finally able to find the time to venture downtown, and check out the popular Christkindlmarket. Haven’t been to it since I moved here, and as locals know, we try to avoid downtown at this time of year. I love Christmas, and Christmas markets. No matter how overrated they may seem. There’s just something about being surrounded by all the good holiday vibes.
Christmaskindlmarket Chicago
Christmaskindlmarket is a cute Christmas market in the heart of Chicago, located in Daley Plaza, the one with the big Picasso sculpture. I went on a Sunday afternoon, and let me tell you: It. Was. Packed. Too crowded for me. For anybody, really. Hence, I still had fun trying to find my way through the crowd, and be in queue for hot cider. All because I wanted this overpriced mini stein. Sigh. I don’t even know where I stored it now. It will eventually show up. Hopefully.
All because I wanted this overpriced mini stein. Sigh.
I expected the market to be a little bigger. It felt too cramped, and the stalls too small. I mean, I unfairly compared it to my favorite market – Bryant Park’s Winter Village – in NYC. So, there’s that. Most of my local friends, and coworkers told me the market is overrated , and that they haven’t been in years. It really is a big tourist attraction. Mostly out of state (and out of city) guests , who drove to Chicago for the weekend. Nonetheless, it was something I wanted to experience.
I’m not a big shopper, and I actually hate in-person shopping. I’m too impatient especially when it’s crowded. I do like the experience, and the holiday vibes I get from Christmas markets.
My friend Kelsey and I didn’t linger long at the market. It was also cold as hell. Fair warning to all. But we did walk around the Loop, and enjoyed the holiday window displays, specifically of Macy’s. Eventually, we found our way to the new Nutella Cafe on Michigan Ave., where we had some crepes and hot coffee. This new cafe was also packed, and has been since it opened. There was always a long line of people waiting to be seated.
Christkindlmarket has another Chicago location at Wrigleyville. I haven’t been to that one yet, but maybe next year?
If you’re not into markets, or if you’re not into Christmas (but why?!), there are plenty of other holiday activities in Chicago. You can always head out to Millennium Park, or the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink for ice skating.
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Downtown Chicago
I never spend Christmas in Chicago. I always spend it in Connecticut with my family. That is the one tradition that we like to keep since we are Christmas people. Though this year is a one-time exception as my family will be spending it in Disneyland for the kids. Fortunately for me, I have the opportunity to head up north. Like waaay up north in the Arctic Circle to work on a project with Hotel Fjallet, and to see the lights of course.
I already feel closer to Santa.
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Jen is a Chicago-based traveler and creative. She is a full-time development & communications executive specializing in non-profit organizations. Originally from the East Coast, she created The Jetsetter as a place to share her travel stories and photos with friends and family. Now, it is a place for adventurers and dreamers. Its purpose is to inspire and encourage busy professionals to see the world and achieve a better work-life balance.