In the cities Germany, Austria and the German-speaking part of Switzerland, vendors set up stalls in the plaza around the cathedral to sell charming gift items and all manner of holiday goodies. Denver’s 2021 Christkindl Market once again takes place this year downtown in Civic Center Park from Friday, November 19 through Thursday, December 23.
Photo by Kenneth Hamblin III
The park is transformed into a magical “old world” European village with wooden vendor huts, lights, festive music and an authentic German Bier Hall.
The Market features a variety of gifts, such as glass-blown ornaments, hand-carved wooden figurines, children’s toys, lanterns, Alpaca scarves, and culinary delights ranging from European pastries and chocolate to pretzels, brats and Speck (a cured, smoked and aged ham).
Sip on authentic Glühwein (mulled spiced wine) or Bavarian style Bier, as you wander through the market and enjoy the opportunity to purchase finely crafted artisan gifts and holiday treats sold by local Coloradan, European, and international merchants in charming wooden huts.
Visitors will find huts located throughout the park where you can grab beer, gluhwein, and hot cocoa.
Steaming mugs of Glühwein
Throughout the event, the Denver Christkindl Market hosts FREE live entertainment and cultural performances. Most performances will take place on stage in the Greek Theater.
Guests will enjoy German polka music, holiday hymns, rock music, aerialists and much more. Check the website for the latest information on performers.
Special events include the ever-popular Krampus Nacht and Trachten Nacht, Canine Christmas and Ugly Sweater Night.
Visitors are invited to come celebrate the holidays and commemorate the season with a traditional German beverage served in collectible mugs or Bier Steins!
Families with children of all ages are welcome at the market. There will be plenty of entertainment for children, as well as sweets and pastry vendors. The Christkind (the market’s namesake!) and Saint Nikolaus will be making very limited appearances this year. Hot chocolate will also be served.
The Denver Christkindl Market is open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday, Friday & Saturday (and the week of Christmas, December 17 to 23) from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with special hours on Thanksgiving Day of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A complete schedule of events and entertainment may be found on the Christkindl Market website.
If you plan to visit the Christkindl Market
Bundle up
The 2021 Market will be a completely open-air experience, and heating lamps will be placed throughout to help keep you warm and cozy. Be sure to remember your scarf and mittens or grab one onsite from one of their craft vendors.
Parking
You can drive, bike, bus or walk to the Market. Street parking is available — but can be tight at times. Please also be aware that street parking meters run until 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. You may want to check out these helpful tips on getting to Civic Center Park.