A Very Merry Christkindlmarkt Crawl

Finding a Christkindlmarket can be like discovering a hidden gem. You’re strolling through city streets or a town square, passing the glowing, golden holiday lights strung among the trees and joyful small business storefront holiday displays, and suddenly, you turn a corner and see a cluster of festive booths and vendors. Vendors that each have a unique story and goods handcrafted with love and dedication. And they’re accompanied by traditional German holiday music, food and entertainment. That’s the thrill of a Christkindlmarket, also known as an outdoor German Christmas market, and visiting one is one of the best ways to spend time this season (and get those last-minute, one-of-akind gifts for your loved ones). Explore these Christkindlmarkts near you.

LEBANON CHRISTKINDL MARKET

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 | 9 A.M. – 3 P.M.

Step into Coleman Memorial Park, and you’ll be transported to Germany. Inspired by the 700-yearold traditional German Christkindlmarkt, the Friends of Coleman Memorial Park are thrilled to hold their annual Christkindl Market once again this holiday season. Visitors can experience German choral music and folk dancing, food trucks like Keller BBQ and Grilled Cheese Cafe, and a variety of vendors with handmade art and goods. Check out a model train display and fun children’s activities as well, like meeting St. Nicholas and completing projects to graduate from Buddy the Elf’s School for Elves. At Lebanon Christkindl Market, there’s truly something to do— and something to buy—for everyone.

Coleman Memorial Park | 1400 W Maple St, Lebanon | Facebook: LebanonChristkindlMarket

LOWER PAXTON CHRISTKINDLMARKT

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 | 10 A.M. – 4 P.M.

You’re certain to find something special for a family member or friend (or yourself) at the Lower Paxton Christkindlmarket with more than 110 vendors of handmade crafts and goods to shop from. Explore gifts like cozy crochet accessories from Creations by C. M. Hand, local raw honey from Erly Bee Farm, and antique Ukrainian folk art from Kostival Arts and Antiques. This year marks the township’s sixth annual Christkindlmarkt, put on by the Lower Paxton Community Foundation, and it’s anticipated to be a memorable—and authentic—experience. While shopping, be sure to indulge in German and festival food, enjoy live music and dancing, view a live nativity scene, and immerse yourself in traditional German culture. The market will be held in the village of Linglestown, rain or shine, and bring your best behavior because Santa will be there!

Village of Linglestown | lpchristkindlmarkt.com

THE LANCASTER LIEDERKRANZ’S CHRISTKINDLMARKT

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 | 11 A.M. – 5 P.M.

The Lancaster Liederkranz is devoted to promoting and amplifying German culture and customs, and the organization puts on four annual authentic German fests a year, so they know a thing or two about a Christkindlmarkt. Come out and celebrate the season at their traditional German Christmas market, where you’ll find eclectic holiday gifts from more than 30 vendors. Sip on German beer and glühwein (spiced mulled wine) while you shop, and treat yourself to authentic fest food and a bonfire with s’mores. You can also enjoy traditional musical performances, and a playground, Kinder Shoppe and crafts offer plenty of ways to keep the kids occupied. Don’t forget to bring cash with you as food and beverages and certain vendors are cash only!

722 S Chiques Rd, Manheim | lancasterliederkranz.com/festschristkindlmarkt.html