December is finally here and that means it's time to get into the festive spirit! Whether you're a sucker for hot cocoa, love browsing for unique gifts, or simply want to soak up the magical holiday atmosphere, Christmas markets are the place to be. 

In this blog post, let us take you on a journey through twinkling lights, savory treats, and artisanal treasures, and get ready to discover the best Christmas markets to visit here in the US of A — no need to travel to Europe. So, grab your favorite scarf, and let's dive into the wonderland of Christmas markets together!

Union Square Market (New York, NY)

You can never go wrong with the hustle and bustle of New York City during the holidays! And right in the heart of it all is the Union Square Holiday Market, a must-visit destination for an enchanting festive experience. Picture this: over 160 vendors offering unique gifts and goodies, making it a breeze to check off everyone on your holiday shopping list. Plus, you can indulge in delectable treats while you shop – it's like a reward for being so organized!

The market is open from Nov 16 to Dec 24, making it perfect for both weekday and weekend visits. And speaking of treats, the food hall at Urbanspace Union Square is a foodie's paradise. With 13 food entrepreneurs and a cool Beer Garden in the back, it's an ideal spot to unwind with friends and family. 

Keep in mind that the market is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, so plan your visit accordingly. Also, on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, they'll be open until 4 pm, giving you some extra time to soak in the festive vibes.

Overall, the Union Square Holiday Market is a vibrant and delightful destination that perfectly captures the holiday spirit of New York City. So, grab your loved ones and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the season in the Big Apple!

Christmas Village (Baltimore, MD)

Ready to experience the magic of a traditional German Christmas market right here in the heart of Baltimore? From November 18th through Christmas Eve, the Christmas Village in Baltimore at West Shore Park will transport you to a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, delightful treats, and an abundance of holiday cheer.

Imagine strolling through charming wooden booths, filled with unique ornaments, handmade gifts, and beautiful jewelry. While you explore the market, you can sip on a warm mug of Glühwein, savor Belgian fries, and feast on delicious German fare. The aroma of waffles, gingerbread, and mulled wine will create the perfect Christmas atmosphere for you and your loved ones.

But the fun doesn't stop there! The Christmas Village also features an indoor heated festival tent with even more vendors, a food court, and an event space. And don't forget to take in the breathtaking sights of the Gluhwine Pyramid and thousands of twinkling holiday lights that will truly ignite your holiday spirit.

So mark your calendar, gather your family and friends, and get ready to make unforgettable memories at the Christmas Village in Baltimore. It's an experience you won't want to miss!

Christkindlmarket (Chicago, IL)

If you're in Chicago, Wrigleyville or Aurora this holiday season, you've got to check out the Christkindlmarket. It's like stepping into a charming German Christmas village right in the heart of the city! With three different locations, you're in for a festive treat.

The market is filled with vendors selling all sorts of unique gifts, Christmas ornaments, and even handmade wooden nutcrackers. And let's talk about the food - roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst, and hot spiced wine. Yum!

Each location has its own schedule, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. But here's the best part - admission is always free! Once you're there, prepare to be surrounded by the delicious smell of food, the sound of joyful music, and the sight of shiny Christmas ornaments. It's a feast for the senses!

But wait, there's more! You can expect family-friendly events, international products, and a truly unique shopping experience. The Christkindlmarket is like a little slice of Europe right in the heart of the Midwest.

Christmas Village (Philadelphia, PA)

If you want to experience the magic of a traditional Christmas Market without leaving Philadelphia, then Christmas Village is the place to be! From late November till Christmas Eve, LOVE Park transforms into a holiday wonderland with delights from all around the world. It’s like traveling the globe without ever leaving the city!

You can shop for unique gifts, enjoy holiday foods, and even treat yourself to some beer and wine tastings. And if you have little ones, there are fun rides for them too. It's truly a festive experience for the whole family!

The Christmas Village is just one part of the holiday fun in Philadelphia. There’s also the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, the Ice Rink at Dilworth Park, and the beautiful municipal Christmas Tree on North Broad Street. So, you'll have plenty to explore and enjoy.

If you're wondering where to find it, Christmas Village is conveniently located at LOVE Park in the heart of Center City. With its central location, it's easily accessible by foot, public transportation, or car. And with the delightful smell of waffles, gingerbread, bratwurst, and mulled wine in the air, you and your family will be transported into the perfect Christmas spirit.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The best Christmas markets to visit this December are filled with holiday cheer, delicious treats, and unique gifts. There's so much to explore and enjoy, and you don't even have to take the whole family outside the country!  

Of course, don't forget to try the traditional mulled wine and grab some handmade ornaments for your tree. Christmas markets are all about enjoying the holiday season, so make sure to browse all of the products available and buy something if you can.

Now it's your turn! Choose a market and make some magical memories with your loved ones. Cheers to a holly jolly holiday season filled with joy and laughter!