Though there’s no shortage of holiday markets to shop for unique treasures in New York City, why limit yourself to those boundaries?! Just about two hours from NYC is Bethlehem, PA, also known as Christmas City U.S.A, and this magical Christmas town is home to Christkindlmarkt, a 10-acre Christmas market that makes for the perfect place to put a dent in your holiday shopping list.
Spread across three city blocks worth of space is a German-style market packed with festive fare and handmade goodies from over 100 of the nation’s finest artisans. Some vendors include:
- Bittersweet Herb Farm
- Celtic Vibe
- Fireball Designs
- Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
- Käthe Wohlfahrt
- Nectar of the Vine
- The Blue Gecko
- Vision of Tibet
Beyond the vendors there’s also much more holiday fun to enjoy, such as fantastic performances including the sounds of live Christmas music presented by school and community groups, strolling carolers, brass performers, and more.
And, like any good holiday market, they also have some delicious eats and drinks to keep you fueled and ready to shop all day long! Holiday fare including strudel, German bratwurst, German roasted almonds, German Mac & Cheese, piping hot poutine, mashed potato balls, and so much more is available to try, along with festive drinks, cold beer, cocktails, and wine.
Christkindlmarkt is open now through December 22nd, Friday to Sunday. Beginning Thursday, December 5th it will also be open on Thursdays. And considering it’s been recognized twice as one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure we’d say it’s a must-visit.
Vacation property rentals company HomeToGo, who placed Christkindlmarkt in the number one spot on their top-tier choices for domestic, European-style Christmas market destinations, wrote:
Bethlehem fully embraces its nickname, ‘Christmas City, USA,’ each holiday season thanks to its stand-out Christkindlmarkt, packed with festive fare, handmade gifts, and performances. The destination’s historic architecture adds a unique backdrop to celebrations, especially in the National Historic Landmark District district, where horse-drawn Christmas carriage rides are available.
Tickets to Christkindlmarkt begin at $10, though it’s free to attend on Fridays from 5pm to 8pm.
📍 PNC Plaza at SteelStacks – 711 E 1st St, Bethlehem, PA 18015
🗓 Now – December 22nd, Friday-Sunday (+Thursdays beginning Dec. 5th)
⏰ Thursday & Sunday, 10am – 6pm / Friday & Saturday, 10am – 8pm