Get into the holiday spirit at the Christkindl Market, Dec 1 to 4 in Downtown Kitchener

The holiday season is just around the corner, which means it's time to bundle up and enjoy some outdoor fun! Kitchener's popular Christkindl Market is back and better than ever. This year's market runs from Thursday, Dec 1, to Sunday, Dec 4, in Carl Zehr Square, inside Kitchener City Hall and along King and Gaukel Streets in Downtown Kitchener. For four days, the streets of Downtown Kitchener transform into a traditional festival of Christmas that dates back 700 years. The Christkindl Market recreates the sights, sounds, smells and spirit of the Christmas festivals across Germany and other European cities.

Downtown Kitchener will be filled with bright and festive lights and decorations this holiday season. Experience the magic of Christmas with a warm cup of hot chocolate and holiday carols while strolling around the twinkling and sparkling Christkindl Market. With over 80 vendors selling unique handcrafted items, live music, dance performances, and unique holiday-themed photo opportunities – you can step into the warmth and joy of Christmas with plenty of gift ideas for friends and family.

"The Christkindl Market is one of the most beloved events on Kitchener's annual events calendar. Seeing it back at City Hall and in Carl Zehr Square for the first time since 2019 will really create a season of magical experiences for everyone," said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. "This beloved market has become a holiday tradition for so many residents and visitors to Kitchener. Every year the market provides a special opportunity for us to come together and kick off the holiday season; take in local entertainment, do some holiday shopping and spend quality time with friends and family."

Visitors of all ages can experience the magic of Christmas at the Christkindl Market. Glide around the rink at Carl Zehr Square, take a festive photo with family or friends, create something special at the kids' workshop, cozy up at the outdoor lounge on Gaukel Street or watch one of the live ice sculpting events.

New this year, look out for a 20-foot tall, silver fir Christmas tree along Gaukel Steet that will be decorated and strung with lights for the holiday season. Carl Zehr Square will also be decorated for the holiday season with Christmas trees, wreaths and more.

The Christkindl Market receives significant support from the Downtown Kitchener BIA and event sponsor Heffner Lexus Toyota. This exciting partnership makes it possible to deliver the festive feeling in a big way, with more décor, activities and entertainment to make your Christkindl experience unforgettable.

The City has partnered with Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest for the first time to expand the entertainment lineup at the Christkindl Market. Come out to enjoy some traditional favourites, plus a variety of new choirs, buskers, carolers, bands and more.

Witness the magic unfold as Downtown Kitchener transforms into a holiday wonderland. The Christkindl Market is a holiday experience you won't want to miss. Admission is free.

Visit www.christkindl.ca for event details.

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For more information

Shawn Falcao
Manager, Corporate Communications
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca