NEWS
You Don’t Need a Passport to Visit These Christmas Markets
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Longing to stroll through a traditional European Christkindl Market this festive season but don’t want to incur the hassles that accompany international travel? Fortunately, there are some wonderful Christmas Markets right here in the US of A – and best of all, you don’t need a passport to visit them!
Whilst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has yet again canceled some Christmas Markets this year, there are plenty of options for those looking to experience a European-style markt right here at home.
Christkindlemarkt Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Running through December 19, Christkindlemarkt Bethlehem has been recognized as one of the best Christmas Markets in America by Travel+Leisure. Featuring hundreds of merchants, delicious foods, live Christmas music and Santa Claus himself, the market draws visitors from far and wide. Nestled in the heart of the Lehigh Valley of eastern Pennsylvania, Bethlehem is known as Christmas City – so be sure to make time to tour some of the festive town and its wonderful holiday decorations.
Solvang Julefest, Solvang, California
Running through January 3, 2022, not only is Solvang Julefest a Christmas Market, but the festive event also features Santa’s Village, a parade, a tree lighting ceremony, a Nativity pageant, and candlelight tours to help even the most miserable of Grinch’s get in the Christmas spirit. The town is so synonymous with Christmas, the New York Times actually voted Solvang one of the “Best 10 Christmas Towns in America.”
European Christmas Market, St. Paul, Minnesota
Today is the day! The European Christmas Market opens at 4 pm today at @UnionDepot.
— European Christmas Market (@EuroXmasMarket) November 26, 2021
There is parking available in a variety of lots along Kellogg blvd that are within walking distance. See you soon!
Photo credit: Mark Krivit Photography pic.twitter.com/Mim6ENgRGF
Known as the only authentic Christmas Market in Minnesota, St. Paul’s European Christmas Market runs through December 19 and is admission free! The market features shopping, family-friendly entertainment, holiday food and drinks, and intercultural activities. Best of all, the market was nominated for Best Holiday Market in the United States by USA Today!
Frankenmuth Christkindlmarkt, Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth is known as “Christmas Town, USA” so it goes without saying that their Christkindlemarkt rivals those found in Europe. The traditional market is modeled after the ones found in Frankenmuth’s sister region of Germany and is chocked full of vendors, delicious food and other festive treats. There is no entrance fee to attend the Christkindlmarkt, which leaves you all those extra dollars to pick up some yuletide treasures.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, the Christmas Village is based on traditional Christmas Markets in Germany and visitors can expect to be treated by an array of vendors selling handmade goodies, delicious European foods, sweets, and drinks. Running through Christmas Eve, the Christmas Village has an extensive list of events and entertainment, including wine tasting, storytimes, and a special dog adoption event. The kids will love a ride on the Christmas Village Carousel and the opportunity to meet the special mascot “Phil the Reindeer” and Santa Claus himself!
