California Joins Michigan, Texas, Illinois, Colorado, Georgia, and More to Offer the Best European-Style Christmas Markets Experience the Magic Without a Passport!Everything as a Traveler You Need to Know

Published on December 10, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, many Americans are dreaming of a magical European Christmas experience. However, you don’t need a passport or a transatlantic flight to soak in the festive cheer. Across the United States, you’ll find a range of European-style Christmas markets offering everything from steaming cups of Glühwein to rows of handcrafted gifts and twinkling lights. With charming decorations, holiday music, and family-friendly fun, these U.S. Christmas markets capture the essence of Europe’s famous winter traditions, all without the need for international travel.

This year, make sure to check out these top 10 U.S. destinations that bring the magic of European Christmas markets right to your doorstep.

1. Carmel Christkindlmarkt – Carmel, Indiana

In Carmel, Indiana, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt is one of the most authentic European-style Christmas markets in the U.S., drawing nearly half a million visitors annually. Held from November 22 to December 24, 2025, this festive market takes place at Carter Green in Hamilton County. Visitors can shop for traditional handcrafted goods like wood carvings and glass ornaments, enjoy Swiss-German raclette sandwiches, and spin around on the outdoor ice rink. The 33-foot-tall Glühwein pyramid is a must-see attraction, and free shuttle service will be available on weekends during the 2025 season to ease parking woes.

Where to Stay: For an ideal stay, book a room at Hotel Carmichael, located just steps away from the market. With its boutique charm and central location, it’s the perfect place to soak in the holiday spirit.

2. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Known as “The Christmas City,” Bethlehem, Pennsylvania lives up to its name with its renowned Christkindlmarkt. Open on weekends from November 14 to December 21, 2025, the market offers visitors the chance to shop for handcrafted Moravian glass stars, nutcrackers, and ornaments from Germany’s Käthe Wohlfahrt. Local artisans also showcase their work, from jewelry to pottery. Make sure to check out the live ice sculptors and take part in holiday craft workshops. Visitors can also meet Old St. Nicholas himself, adding a touch of tradition to the experience.

Where to Stay: Immerse yourself in the holiday magic at Historic Hotel Bethlehem, where you’ll find over 25 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, two life-sized nutcrackers, and a gingerbread house replica of the hotel.

3. Texas Christkindl Market – Arlington, Texas

The Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington, Texas, is a festive favorite that celebrates the city’s connection with its German sister city, Bad Königshofen. This market runs from November 21 to December 23, 2025, and features global artisans, exclusive holiday merchandise from Käthe Wohlfahrt, and seasonal German food such as bratwurst and pretzels. The market also hosts live entertainment and a Holiday Train for kids, making it a great spot for families.

Where to Stay: Check in to Loews Arlington Hotel, located near the market, offering family-friendly amenities like firepits and a kids’ club.

4. Christkindlmarket Chicago – Chicago, Illinois

A staple of the Windy City’s holiday season, Christkindlmarket Chicago is inspired by the famous Nuremberg market in Germany and returns for its 29th year in 2025. The market is held daily from November 21 to December 24 at Daley Plaza, where visitors can shop for unique gifts, enjoy traditional German foods like pierogis and bratwurst, and sip on imported German hot spiced wine. The festive atmosphere is complemented by holiday musical performances, making it a must-visit for any holiday enthusiast.

Where to Stay: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection, just four blocks from the market, offers spacious rooms and upscale amenities, perfect for those looking to enjoy Chicago’s Christmas charm.

5. Solvang Julefest – Solvang, California

Step into a Danish-inspired holiday wonderland at Solvang Julefest in California. Taking place from November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this celebration offers an open-air Maker’s Market, live musical performances, and a spectacular light and music show. Visitors can explore seasonal treats, holiday gifts, and unique Danish traditions. Solvang’s Scandinavian charm brings a touch of Europe to California, making it a favorite holiday destination.

Where to Stay: The Landsby is a recently remodeled boutique hotel in the heart of Solvang, just a short walk from Solvang Park, where the Julefest festivities take place.

6. Holland Kerstmarkt – Holland, Michigan

The Holland Kerstmarkt in Michigan is a Dutch-inspired Christmas market that runs on weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Located near the shores of Lake Michigan, this market features vendors selling traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels and speculaas cookies, along with other holiday crafts. Guests can enjoy carolers, dog sled demonstrations, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The festive atmosphere is a perfect way to experience the best of Dutch holiday traditions.

Where to Stay: Courtyard Holland Downtown offers modern accommodations and is conveniently located near the market, making it easy to explore all that the city has to offer.

7. Denver Christkindlmarket – Denver, Colorado

The Denver Christkindlmarket brings a piece of Germany to the heart of Colorado. From November 21 to December 23, 2025, visitors can shop for unique gifts, enjoy traditional food and drinks, and enjoy live entertainment. This year, the market moves to a new location at Tivoli Quad on Auraria Campus, where more than 40 vendors will showcase handcrafted goods. It’s an ideal stop for families, with the chance to meet St. Nikolaus and even Krampus.

Where to Stay: Staybridge Suites Denver Downtown offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, an indoor pool, and complimentary daily breakfast, making it an excellent choice for families.

8. Marché de Noel: Macon Christmas Market – Macon, Georgia

In a first for Macon, Georgia, the Marché de Noel (Macon Christmas Market) brings together French, Bavarian, and German traditions. From December 5–14, 2025, visitors can enjoy festive music, a bier garden, and Glühwein. The market’s unique charm is amplified by its setting alongside the Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza, where more than a million lights move in time to holiday music.

Where to Stay: Hotel Forty Five, Macon, a modern hotel situated at a unique 45-degree angle, offers a prime location for exploring the city’s holiday festivities.

9. Christkindl Markt – Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Christkindl Markt transforms Grand Rapids into a European-style Christmas village, featuring over 60 artisan and food vendors. From November 19 to December 23, 2025, the market will offer handcrafted goods, German foods like bratwurst, and festive drinks. Unique experiences like curling and private Alpenglobes for a cozy dinner add to the magic.

Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown is located close to the market and offers amenities like an indoor pool and free dining for kids.

10. Cambria Christmas Market – Cambria, California

The Cambria Christmas Market, running from November 28 to December 31, 2025, features traditional German foods, handcrafted ornaments, and a stunning light display. Visitors can enjoy over three million Christmas lights, visit with Santa, and take a holiday train ride. The market is located on the grounds of the Cambria Pines Lodge, a pet-friendly hotel offering a cozy retreat amid the festive atmosphere.

Where to Stay: Cambria Pines Lodge offers charming rooms and a peaceful setting surrounded by 25 acres of wooded grounds.

A European Christmas in the U.S. – No Passport Needed

These 10 U.S. Christmas markets offer a taste of Europe without the need for international travel. Whether you’re in search of festive foods, unique gifts, or an unforgettable holiday experience, these markets provide all the charm and magic of a European winter wonderland. From the German-style booths of Carmel to the Danish traditions of Solvang, there’s no shortage of holiday spirit in the U.S. this season. So why wait for a passport? Experience the best of European-style Christmas markets right here in the U.S. this holiday season!