Christkindlmarket 2023 Dates Released: What to Know About the Holiday Market Coming to Chicago, Aurora

Erica Demarest | August 15, 2023 1:51 pm

(Eric James Walsh)

Christkindlmarket has announced its 2023 season will begin Nov. 17 at three locations in the Chicago area: Daley Plaza, Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field and RiverEdge Park in Aurora.

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Hosted by German American Events, the free outdoor markets have been a Chicago holiday tradition since 1996. Dozens of vendors sell crafts, ornaments, international snacks and, of course, glühwein in collectible mugs.

Organizers this week are hosting a giveaway for one-night hotel stays near each market. People can participate in the giveaway daily this Wednesday to Friday (Aug. 16-18) on Instagram; full details will be released Wednesday. The hotels are:

Staypineapple near Christkindlmarket Chicago at Daley Plaza
Hotel Zachary at the Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville at Gallagher Way
Holiday Inn Express at the Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEdge Park

The 2023 mug shape and design will be released in October.

Here’s what to know about the 2023 Christkindlmarket season:

Christkindlmarket Chicago at Daley Plaza | 50 W. Washington St. | Map

Back for its 27th season, the Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza will feature more than 55 vendors. A ‘Twas the Night Before Christkindlmarket Preview Event will include ceremonial keg tappings.

Open daily from Nov. 17-Dec. 24:

Sundays to Thursdays: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Fridays to Saturdays: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Special opening hours:

Thanksgiving (Nov. 23): 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville at Gallagher Way | 3635 N. Clark St. | Map

Now in its 5th year, the Christkindlmarket at Gallagher Way will include an ice rink and interactive family-friendly activities. The market is expanding with more than 40 vendors.

Open daily from Nov. 17-Dec. 31:

Mondays to Thursdays: 3-9 p.m.
Fridays to Saturdays: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Sundays: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Special opening hours:

Thanksgiving (Nov. 23): 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Christmas Day (Dec. 25): Closed
Dec. 26- 28: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31): 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEdge Park | 360 N. Broadway in Aurora | Map

The Christkindlmarket in Aurora will transform RiverEdge Park into a winter wonderland for the second year. Expect photo opportunities, scavenger hunts and more than 50 vendors, some unique to the suburban market. A keg-tapping event is set for Nov. 18 with Bitburger and Erdinger.

Open Thursdays to Sundays from Nov. 17-Dec. 24: