This post may contain affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
We’ve been spoiled for several years with the best Christmas markets in Europe. Strasbourg, Nuremberg, Vienna, and Budapest are just some of our favorites that we’ve been able to experience. After visiting these iconic Christmas markets year after year, I have high expectations when it comes to Christmas markets.
When we went to Christkindlmarket Chicago, I had high expectations. After all, it is touted as the best and most authentic German Christmas market in the United States. Spoiler alert: I was let down. You can read my full review of the Chicago Christmas market here.
When it came to the Denver Christmas market, I thought I had to lower my expectations. Well, I was totally wrong!
The TL;DR of my Denver Christkindlmarket is this: it was awesome and completely worth the visit!
2025 Denver Christkindl Market Information
| Dates | November 21, 2025 – December 23, 2025 |
| Location | Auraria Campus — Tivoli Quad 1000 Larimer St. Denver, CO 80204 |
| Admission | Free |
| Hours | Mon – Thurs: 1pm to 9pm Fri – Sun: 11am to 9pm |
A Culinary Journey Through the Christkindlmarket
Denver’s incredible Christmas market featured many of the typical food offerings found at most European markets. There were brats, mulled wine, raclette cheese, Eastern European specialties like goulash, and so much more.
We enjoyed a raclette crepe, a raclette baguette, hot (mulled) wine, and a unique hot Christmas-inspired tea. The raclette crepe and baguette were phenomenal. The melty raclette cheese was legit—they even scraped it off the wheel, just like in France!
Both the crepe and baguette were topped with prosciutto and gherkins, and the baguette had a swipe of Dijon mustard. So good! The second night we went we shared traditional German spatzle topped with bacon and handmade elk brats, which were both spectacular.
Several types of holiday cocktails and mulled wine were available. I went with the blueberry gluhwein, which came in a fun souvenir cup and was incredibly tasty. There were crepes, chocolate-covered strawberries, s’ mores, and pastries for a savory treat.
Also Read: The Best Christmas Markets on the French Riviera
Local Finds and Unique Gifts
Along with traditional European fare, Denver’s Christmas market adds its own Colorado flair to the occasion! You can find plenty of handmade products that make great gifts and souvenirs. We picked up a handmade wooden “Welcome to Colorful Colorado” ornament, starting a tradition of collecting an ornament for every place we’ve called home.
There were many handmade and personalized wooden and metal decor items, along with local honey and handmade soaps. One of our favorite booths was La Montagne des Saveurs, started by a French couple from Avignon, France. They had many unique cheeses, including garlic basil, raclette, goat gouda, and sheep truffle. We were really excited to see that they had tomme de Savoie, which is one of the main ingredients of aligot, one of our favorite French dishes!
Music, Dancing, and Holiday Cheer
Almost everyday there is a variety of entertainment to enjoy while visiting the Christmas market. When we were there, there was a choir singing Christmas carols and St. Nick walking around greeting visitors and taking photos. Other entertainment includes acapella groups, a marching band, and bands performing in the indoor tent.
There are also themed days, including Canine Christmas, Krampus Night, 70’s Boogie Night, and Ugly Sweater Night.
A Cozy Retreat: The S’mores Haus Experience
One of the most unique experiences at Denver’s Christmas Market was the S’mores Haus, located in the heart of the market. They offer everything from classic s’mores to more elaborate, delectable desserts, such as a mouthwatering s’mores stuffed croissant. Yum!
Surrounding the main S’mores Haus, you’ll find several fire pits that you and your family or friends can enjoy. The ambiance ups the cozy vibes for sure! There’s also a private igloo to rent. We enjoyed a classic hot chocolate and peppermint hot chocolate as we warmed up at one of the fire pits and it was truly the best way to end our time at the market.
Also Read: Winter Travel Packing List: European Christmas Markets
Family-Friendly Festivities, Bring Your Furry Friends Along
The Denver Christmas Market is a family-friendly event, pets included! We already know that Colorado is one of the most pet-friendly states in the nation, and this aspect really reminded me of European Christmas Markets. There is fun and activities for every member of the family. This includes all-day happy hour days for adults, storytime for kids, and Canine Christmas day for your favorite pooch.
Also Read: A Foodie’s Guide to Christmas Market Delicacies: Must-Try Food & Drinks
Tips for Your Visit: What to Know Before You Go
- Christmas Market Location: Auraria Campus, Tivoli Quad, 1000 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80204
- Layer up! The fire pits and indoor seating area come in clutch, but walking around the market can get chilly, especially at night.
- Street parking and parking garages are available surrounding the park.
- Every vendor we went to took card, so no need to fret on having enough cash on you.
More photos from the Denver Christkindlmarket
