Chicago kicked off its holiday season this weekend with numerous events, including the lighting of the Christmas tree in Millennium Park and the reopening of the Christkindlmarket, a popular German-style Christmas market.
Thousands of visitors gathered in Millennium Park on Friday evening to witness the lighting of Chicago’s 111th Christmas tree. The 16-meter-tall tree was donated by the Holden-Shaddick family from Logan Square, and the lighting ceremony did not disappoint, attracting huge crowds.
The festive atmosphere continued with the opening of the Christkindlmarket, which opened on Friday at two locations: Daley Plaza in Chicago and River Edge Park in Aurora. This market is a beloved tradition, and this year, visitors can once again enjoy German specialties such as mulled wine, German beer, pretzels, pierogi, and raclette sandwiches.
The Christkindlmarket, which first opened in 1996, is known for its unique atmosphere, handcrafted products, and ornaments from over 50 vendors. This year, visitors can enjoy a new “Culture and Cheer” tour, which offers insights into the market’s history and German holiday traditions.
For Leil Schmidt, manager of German-American events, this market represents a “piece of home” in the heart of Chicago. “The products are handcrafted not only in Germany but also from Ecuador, Peru, Canada, and many other countries. It’s an international, intercultural atmosphere,” she says.
The holiday season in Chicago has now officially begun, and visitors can enjoy all the charms of the holiday market and indulge in a tradition that has become part of this city’s identity.
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Source: Fox 32 , Photo: Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times / Christkindlmarket.com