Chicago’s most beloved holiday tradition announces its first-ever virtual Christkindlmarket “Home for the Holidays,” featuring an online marketplace, family-friendly events, and fun interactive activities.
From the safety and comfort of their homes, visitors from around the nation can continue their annual tradition and shop their favorite Christkindlmarket products. The offers include ornaments, gifts, sweets and treats from Germany and beyond, as well as special limited-edition gift box sets, featuring German holiday favorites and ‘must-haves.’ Pre-orders for the limited-edition gift boxes will be taken through the website beginning on October 1st, with hundreds more vendor products being added to the shop on November 1st. Other special activities include live online events, prize giveaways, and intercultural storytelling. Visitors can also explore German customs and participate in giveaway events and a daily Advent Calendar. To complete the experience, the traditional Christkind will make virtual appearances. More details will be released on the Christkindlmarket’s social media pages and the newly designed website.
The Christkindlmarket has been monitoring the health and public safety developments, travel regulations for visitors and vendors, and other guidelines throughout the past few months. Since the top priority is the well-being of market visitors, vendors, partners, and staff members, the tough decision has been made to cancel the traditional in-person Christkindlmarkets in Chicago, Wrigleyville and Milwaukee for 2020.
“It is difficult to imagine the holiday season without being able to come together at the Christkindlmarket. Although we are saddened that we cannot welcome our visitors in person for the first time since 1996, we are excited about introducing a new virtual experience that allows people to enjoy the tradition and celebration of their beloved holiday market in a new way”, says Maren Biester Priebe, CEO of German American Events, LLC, the Christkindlmarkets’ organizer.
Get a sneak peek of the fun in our video announcement. Sign up for the new “Home for the Holidays” Christkindlmarket newsletter to get the latest updates on participation opportunities, vendor discounts, events, and entertainment.
