If snow is an essential part of your Christmas fun, then you are almost guaranteed it in Chicago. It adds a real winter wonderland feel to the city's festive celebrations. Watch tree-lighting ceremonies, drink mulled wine at carol concerts, take an illuminated walk through Lincoln Park Zoo, admire the Christmas window displays in Macy's or browse the Christmas markets in Chicago.
Whether you are shopping for Christmas presents, searching out quirky vacation souvenirs or want to add to your seasonal decorations, the Christmas markets in Chicago provide a wealth of shopping adventures. Some markets last throughout the month of December while others pop up over a weekend or two.
1. Christkindlmarket
With three locations across the city, Christkindlmarket brings you Christmas traditions from Nuremberg in Germany. Buy nutcrackers, tree trinkets, and beautifully carved cuckoo clocks and children's toys before dining on potato pancakes and sipping a steaming mug of hot, spiced Glühwein.
2. Randolph Street Market Festival
This street market is held on two days of the month throughout the year but in December takes on a Christmas market feel. Over 100 market stalls sell everything from vintage clothing and jewelry to vinyl records and retro ornaments. It's the ideal place to grab those last-minute Christmas presents.
3. BIDE Holiday Market
This one-day market in mid-December is totally eco-friendly as well as having 25 stalls selling ethical, handmade and upcycled products. It's perfect for a Christmas present with a difference.
Best Places to Stay for Christmas Markets in Chicago
Best Holiday Shopping Areas in Chicago
If something seasonal exists you can probably buy it on The Magnificent Mile. Don't, however, overlook Chicago's other neighborhoods for your holiday shopping while museums and galleries always have beautifully stocked gift shops.
1. Michigan Avenue - The Magnificent Mile
You will probably need more than one day to do this shopping stretch justice. All the major department stores are here as well as vertical shopping centers such as Water Tower Place. Not only do Cartier's diamond bracelets twinkle, but the street illuminations are lovely too.
2. The Museum of Contemporary Art
This huge gift shop has a dazzling array of seasonal gifts, clothing, and decorations inspired by the museum's collections. Kids love Andy Warhol coloring books while for teens there's urban-inspired hoodies and tees.
3. Wolfbait and BGirls on Logan Square
This female-owned shopping area brings together 250 local designers and is the place to buy true Chicago gifts for Christmas. Shop for stunning jewelry, handmade toiletries, Christmas edibles, and even gifts for your pets.
4. Geppetto's Toy Box
If children are the focus of Christmas in your family, then treat them to gifts inspired by classic European toys. This shop focuses on sustainable wooden toys that range from puzzles and craft sets to building blocks and puppets.
Recommended Accommodations
for Christmas Markets in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Christmas Markets in Chicago: How much does it cost to rent a vacation home in Chicago?
HomeToGo offers incredible rentals for Christmas Markets in Chicago, with prices as low as $69 per night.
Can I find a vacation home for a group of guests for Christmas Markets in Chicago?
Usually the size of a Apartment rental is 81 m² and may fit 4 people on average which is great for medium-sized groups and families.
What kinds of vacation rentals are available for Christmas Markets in Chicago?
We would advice choosing from our incredible selection of House rental and Apartment rental for Christmas Markets in Chicago.
The Weather in Chicago
- Rainy days
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