The Chicago Christmas Market – Is It Worth It? Our Honest Experience

If you couldn’t tell by now, we are absolute Christmas market fanatics! While we’re not huge fans of the cold temperatures that the winter months bring, one thing we love about winter is being able to visit Christmas markets throughout Europe.

This was our first year living in America in more than five years, so we look forward to experiencing the Christmas markets throughout the United States.

The top American Christmas market on our list was the Chicago Christmas Market, also called the Christkindlmarket Chicago. It’s touted as the best and most authentic Christmas market in the United States. 

All across social media, you can find photos and videos of adorable wooden booths offering everything from handmade Christmas ornaments to sweet treats and savory traditional European dishes. I’m not going to lie; I had high expectations.

So, did the Chicago Christmas Market live up to the hype and my expectations? Let’s get into it!

Also Read: The Best European Christmas Markets to Visit This Winter

Authentic products

One of the things I loved about the Chicago Christmas Market was the selection of authentic products that were available. They had foods from many European countries, including Germany, France, Poland, and Austria. Additionally, just like the Christmas markets of Europe, you could find many beautiful handmade ornaments and gifts.

Our hot wine was delicious – both the white and red varieties. We also enjoyed delicious Austrian strudels in a variety of flavors. They were soft, flaky, warm, and so yummy.

Crowds galore

We visited the Chicago Christkindlmarket on a Saturday, and the market opened at 11am. Before going to the Christmas market, we decided to do some sightseeing. As we made our way to the market around noon, we were absolutely stunned by the long, winding lines of visitors waiting to enter the market. There were two entrance lines that both wrapped around the block several times.

Our wait time in line was about 45 minutes. It looked a lot longer than it felt being in line. We probably didn’t move for the first 15 or 20 minutes, but we moved pretty consistently after that. However, we were surprised to find out that there wasn’t any crowd control happening, at least when we entered the market.

Instead, families were stopping in front of the entrance sign to take pictures — that’s what was taking so long to get in. A couple of market workers were at the entrance, but they didn’t appear to be keeping count of visitors or anything like that.

Once we were inside the market, we were packed like sardines. Moving from booth to booth was challenging and even harder to keep track of everyone in our group. We often had to step off to a corner to re-group.

Also Read: Mulled Wine, Treats, and Cheer: Why You Should Visit Denver’s Christkindlmarket

Long lines for food and drinks

Of course, since there were so many people, every booth serving food and drinks had an enormous line. I was disappointed I couldn’t get one of my favorite Christmas market treats: raclette. However, the food and drinks that we did have were absolutely delicious!

We found that the longer lines could be found closer to the entrances, so try to go further into the market for shorter lines. The raclette line wrapped around the market, so it was a no for us. We found a shorter hot wine line, and the line for Austrian strudels also moved somewhat quickly.

Smaller than expected

Another thing I was surprised by was the size of the Christmas market. With all of the posts I’ve seen on social media, I expected it to be much larger than it actually was.

The Christmas market ended up being half a city block. In my humble opinion, it would have been a much better experience overall if the market was located in a larger space, such as Navy Pier or Millennium Park. This would allow visitors to have a more pleasant time visiting various booths and more opportunities for vendors to expand or to include additional vendors.

Also Read: Winter Travel Packing List: European Christmas Markets

Where to stay

We loved staying at the Westin Chicago River North. It was conveniently located just a few minutes from the Chicago Christmas Market and a short walk to Millenium Park. The area was super easy to navigate and many bars and restaurants nearby. The hotel’s bar and restaurant also offered an incredible food and drink selection.

Final Verdict on the Chicago Christmas Market – Is it worth it?

My answer: yes and no. If you’re local and can visit on a weekday, then absolutely! The crowd size really put a damper on it for me. Another reason it’s worth it is if you are looking for a small taste of traditional European Christmas Markets closer to home without flying across the pond.

However, if you are looking for a true immersive European Christmas Market experience, I say pass and actually plan a trip to Europe for the holidays instead. While the Chicago Christmas market was lovely, it paled in comparison to the markets of France, Germany, Austria, Poland, and Eastern Europe. I believe it is absolutely worth it and you won’t be disappointed.

Also Read: The Best Christmas Markets on the French Riviera

Other things to do in Chicago around Christmastime

Christmas bar hopping

We went to the Elf’d Up bar for some Elf-themed drinks and food. They had so many fun (and tasty) drinks to try, but it was super crowded, and no tables were available, so we weren’t able to try any of the food.

All along North Clark Street near Wrigley Field were tons of Christmas and even Hannukkah-themed bars, so I highly recommend heading over to that area if you want to do some festive bar hopping!

Enjoy the Christmas lights in Millenium Park

While Millenium Park is one of Chicago’s top attractions year-round, it is especially magical during Christmastime. The central Christmas tree dazzles with its robust size and twinkling lights. The park also hosts a smaller holiday market, an ice skating rink, and holiday sing-alongs.

Walk around Navy Pier

Sunset was such a fabulous time to be walking around Navy Pier. The city views from Navy Pier are unbeatable, so I highly recommend visiting!

I loved the various Christmas displays throughout the pier. It’s a great family-friendly area to visit in Chicago. Additional activities including an ice slide, axe throwing, fire pits, and enjoying views of the city from the iconic Centennial Wheel.

Also Read: Taygeer Travel Backpack Review: A Lightweight and Practical Choice for Frequent Travelers

FAQ

Is there an admission fee for the Chicago Christmas Market?

No, there is no fee to enter the Chicago Christmas Market, this is a free event.

What are the Chicago Christmas Market opening hours?

The Christkindlmarket Chicago opens daily at 11am and closes at 8pm from Monday through Thursday and at 9pm from Friday through Sunday. Open hours are limited on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.

Is the Chicago Christmas Market a cash-only event?

Most vendors are cash-only. There are ATMs located throughout the market, but we recommend bringing a good amount of cash with you. We noticed that almost all food vendors (including mulled wine) were cash only.

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