This Indiana Town Soon Transforms into a German Christmas Market

One of the most authentic German Christmas markets in the United States isn’t in New York City, Chicago or Boston; you’ll actually find it in Carmel, Indiana. Family travelers this winter to or within the Midwest won’t want to miss the chance to experience Carmel Christkindlmarkt, a sprawling festive event.

© Roben Bellomo

This year’s market, selected four time as Best Holiday Market by USA Today’s 10Best, runs Nov. 22–Dec. 24. More than a quarter of a million visitors come to the market annually.

Carmel Christkindlmarkt features renowned German woodworkers and glassblowers, traditional food and beverages, gifts from dozens of charming wooden huts, and an outdoor ice rink. Look for the 33-foot Glühwein Pyramid in the market, the first of its kind in the United States. This is a carousel-like structure with multiple tiers.

© Roben Bellomo

New this year is Handbrot, a food vendor selling oven-baked rolls filled with gooey cheese and meats or savory vegetable filling. This vendor also offers slices of Käsekuchen, an authentic German cheesecake.

One hut showcases a train display set in a miniature European village, while another sells Black Forest cuckoo clocks. Families can find a vast array of souvenirs and gifts at the market, from mugs to snow globes to ornaments to hats. There’s also live demonstrations from glassblowers, visits from Santa and hands-on family activities.