Vendor applications open for Kitchener’s Christkindl Market, celebrating 30 years with expanded schedule

Kitchener, ON – Kitchener's beloved Christkindl Market is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades as one of the community’s most cherished and well‑attended annual events. Known for its festive atmosphere, artisan marketplace, live entertainment, traditional food, and cultural programming, Christkindl Market continues to be a highlight of the holiday season in Kitchener.  

Drawing close to 70,000 visitors last year over its traditional four‑day weekend, the Christkindl Market has steadily grown into one of the region’s standout cultural festivals. In 2025, Christkindl was recognized as one of the Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario by Festivals and Events Ontario, highlighting its continued excellence and community impact. 

In recognition of its popularity and to mark this milestone year, the festival will expand to two consecutive weekends in 2026: December 3-6 and December 10-13. This promises expanded offerings, new experiences, and memorable celebrations for visitors of all ages, with more opportunities than ever to experience the magic of Christkindl. With this expansion, the City anticipates that more than 100,000 people will visit the market this year. 

"Kitchener’s Christkindl Market has been a beloved part of the annual holiday season for generations of residents and visitors in the lead up to Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and all the celebrations in December of each year,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “We’re proud to be celebrating this incredible 30th anniversary milestone with our community and are thrilled to offer a bigger, better and longer festival that will create memories for residents, visitors and vendors alike. Christkindl is always a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent and creativity of our thriving local businesses, and I can’t wait to share with everyone what we have in store this year.” 

The City of Kitchener is now accepting applications from new vendors eager to participate in Christkindl Market for this special anniversary year. 

Vendor selection will prioritize: 

Vendors may apply to participate in either weekend or both, with preference given to vendors available for both weekends.   

Interested vendors can apply online until May 1, 2026 at Christkindl.ca. More information on the selection process, criteria and application instructions are available on that page. 

Learn more about the history of Christkindl Market and the 30th anniversary celebration at Christkindl.ca