Grand Rapids First Annual Christkindl Markt

The 2023 holiday season is starting off with a bang! The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is introducing a beloved old-world tradition that will have something fun for the whole family—the First Annual Chistkindl Markt.  This holiday market will take place over 26 days, running from November 17 through December 23. The outdoor market will feature artisanal gifts and delectable food, accompanied by live holiday performances and fun activities for the whole family.

 

What is the Christkindl Markt?

The Christkindl Markt draws inspiration from the renowned Christmas Street markets that first emerged in Germany during the late Middle Ages and spread to various other countries around the world. To create a European ambiance, the outdoor area of the Downtown Market will be converted into a Christmas Village featuring a Bavarian-style beverage hall and over 35 vendors nestled into wooden stalls.

 

Market Location & Hours

Grand Rapids Downtown Market
435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

November 17 – December 23
Wednesday/Thursday: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Monday/Tuesday: CLOSED

Gifts and Handmade Items Vendors

Winterborn Aplaca – Handmade scarves, socks, mittens, and more

The Market Made – Curated handmade gift items

Heather Lane Pottery – Handmade and painted ceramic items including ornaments

Spice Merchants – Herbal tea, soaps, and bath soaks

Sofra Textiles – European-stye throws, wraps, scarves, and blankets

Leon James – Custom-made novelty socks

Guelaguetza Designs – Authentic handmade Mexican clothing, toys, bags, jewelry, and ceramics

Soap Dude Cosmetics – Handmade soaps, shampoos, balms, lotions, and beard oils

Grayling Ceramics – Rustic pottery and home goods

Baabaazuzu – Wool winter accessories

Phillipp’s Craft – Ceramic kitchenware

PaKo Lazo Pottery – Ceramic kitchenware

Paige Soy Candles – Candles and incense

Olive + Indio – Handmade metal and mineral jewelry

Rachel Cielo – Handcrafted clay jewelry

Michigan Nature Co. – Handmade lifestyle and apparel items

Nolie Co. – Stickers, sweatshirts, stationary, cards, notepads, and more

Christmas Nordic Dreams – High quality products from Scandinavia and Baltics

The Spoon Girl – Jewelry and other items made from silverware and up-cycled metal

Lady Barkley’s – Dog bandanas, leashes, collars, bows, and holiday gift sets

Edible Gift Vendors

Michigan Candy Land – Self-proclaimed “best old fashioned candy in Michigan!”

Chocolate Moonshine Co. – Fudge, sipping chocolate, truffle bars, and s’mores kits

deSoto Confections – Caramelized nuts

Le Macaron French Pastries – Macarons, eclairs, napoleons, chocolates, and more

 

Food & Drink Vendors

One Stop Coney – Polish dogs, brats, and more

Crepes by the Lake – Sweet and savory crepes

Baked Cheese Haus  – Raclette cheese served over baguettes and brats

Olly’s Donuts – Food truck serving mini donuts

Rak Thai – Rotating Menu of soups and bread bowls

Amazing Lights – Handmade Belgian waffles

Bavarian-style beverage hall serving Glühwein, beer, hot chocolate, and hot cider

Entertainment

Each day the market is set to feature a variety of entertainment! Daily events will range from visits from Santa & Mrs. Claus, live music, children’s activities, and more. Also set up at the market will be curling sheets—get a group together to rent one of the outdoor curling sheets and have some friendly competition.

For more information on the market including curling and private chalet reservations and the full entertainment schedule, visit the Christkindl Markt website here! Or follow along on their Facebook for updates and vendor highlights!