For the first time, this winter, downtown Grand Rapids will be transformed into a European-style Christmas Village filled with food and lots of festive fun! 

Officially dubbed the “Christkindl Markt”, the market is inspired by traditional European markets and is filled with unique holiday experiences illuminated with international flair. From children’s activities to a German-style outdoor enclosed beverage hall, the hope is to bring the community together and brighten people’s holiday season.

Visitors can find all kinds of activities at the market from European food vendors to more traditional holiday activities. During the colder months especially, visitors are encouraged to try the family-friendly German-style beverage hall, which boasts steins of German-style beer for the adults and kid-friendly hot beverages, including hot chocolate, cider, and “kinderpunch.” In addition, many children’s activities are planned, such as meet and greets with Santa, storytimes, and a take-home holiday arts and crafts area. Visitors can make their ornaments, watch, and partake in caroling, 

What’s more, live entertainment will be presented on stage, and street performers will roam the ground interacting with visitors. You can even rent an outdoor curling sheet and experience a sport that dates back to 16th-century Scotland!

But perhaps one of the most unique parts of this holiday experience is the food vendors filled with homemade items taken directly from specific European countries. These vendors offer a plethora of sausages, donuts, crepes, pastries, soups, sandwiches, and much more. Some of the more unique of these yummy treats include Belgian fries, Zotter chocolates, and Baked Cheese Haus. 

Most of the booths offer homemade foods and handmade gifts and are decorated with traditional European Christmas market décor. You’ll find plenty of options to meet your Christmas shopping needs, from ornaments to home decor to jewelry!

The event has already gained support from the community and has been recognized as a possible new holiday tradition in downtown Grand Rapids for future years. Be sure not to miss out on the Christkindl Markt as it will remain open Wed through Sunday until December 23!