Indiana's Carmel Christkindlmarkt is Voted the Best in America

I don't know if the Christkindlmarkt is a commonly known thing in other parts of the country, but it's a pretty big deal in parts of Indiana. In fact, the Hoosier state is home to one of the best Christkindlmarkts in the country.

What is a Christkindlmarkt?

Simply put, a Christkindlmarkt is a German Christmas market - the actual translation is "Christ Child Market." Christkindlmarket.com gives a more in-depth description...

The Christkindlmarket unites cherished German and European traditions with international flair and local charm. Inspired by the 16th century Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, one of the first outdoor markets of its kind, the Christkindlmarket is well-known for its vendors’ high-quality gifts and food, holiday cheer, and for being the ideal place for families to make unique memories.

Where to Find the Best Holiday Market in America

Plan a trip to Central Indiana this holiday season so you can experience firsthand, the 3-time winner of USA Today's "Best Holiday Market" - the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.

Visitors to the market can enjoy delicious German food and drinks from over 20 vendors, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy holiday music performed by artists from around the world. The Christkindlmarkt also offers the following experiences...

Kinderecke - "Kids Corner" is a special space for families to make crafts and memories together during all Market hours.
The Kulterecke - A great opportunity to explore Indiana's rich German-American history.
Spielhaus - The "Playhouse" is home to kid-friendly entertainment and meet-and-greets with characters that will spark your little ones’ imaginations.
Werkstatt - The "Workshop" will show how some of the traditional Christmas decorations that you find at the Market are made.

Carmel Christkindlmarkt Dates, Hours, and Costs

The Carmel Christkindlmarkt is open from November 23rd through December 24, but it is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Hours are Wednesday & Thursday from 4pm-9pm, Friday & Saturday from 12n-9pm, and Sunday from 12n-8pm. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Admission to the market is FREE, but you will obviously have to pay for items you purchase from vendors.

LOOK: What Christmas was like the year you were born

To see how Christmas has changed over the last century, Stacker explored how popular traditions, like food and decorations, emerged and evolved from 1920 to 2021 in the U.S. and around the world.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

25 Indoor Activities for Kids in Southern Indiana This Winter

It will soon be too cold to play outside, but fear not - there are dozens of fun indoor activities for kids of all ages and abilities to do in the Southern Indiana area. Here they are in alphabetical order.

Gallery Credit: Bobby G.