PENNSYLVANIA - With its deep roots in German and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions, Pennsylvania is arguably the perfect place in America to get into the true spirit of the holidays. These historical influences brought us many beloved customs, most notably the Christkindlmarkt—the classic open-air European Christmas market.
Whether you're shopping for unique artisanal gifts, sipping on hot mulled wine (Glühwein), or just soaking up the festive atmosphere, Pennsylvania offers two of the nation's most celebrated Christmas destinations.
The Keystone State's Top Holiday Villages
Pennsylvania's markets lean heavily into the season's charming, traditional spirit, creating world-class experiences that draw visitors from across the country.
1. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem (The Christmas City)
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, literally calls itself the "Christmas City" and lives up to the name. Its annual Christkindlmarkt is one of the oldest and most respected in the country, running for weeks in a sprawling indoor/outdoor setting.
- Vibe: Traditional German heritage, focusing on handcrafted goods, glassblowing demonstrations, and authentic food like strudel and bratwurst.
- Why It's Special: The city's preserved industrial architecture and historical roots amplify the Old World charm.
2. The Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Located in Center City (typically at LOVE Park and City Hall), the Christmas Village transforms the heart of the city into a festive marketplace.
- Vibe: A lively outdoor market with dozens of wooden stalls selling international gifts, jewelry, ornaments, and gourmet foods.
- Why It's Special: Its location offers stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding historical architecture, pairing traditional market stalls with metropolitan energy.
Christmas Villages Across the United States
Beyond Pennsylvania, countless communities nationwide embrace the European holiday market tradition. Here is a guide to the wonderful Christmas villages and markets, both large and small, that make the season bright across the country:
The Christkindlmarkt Tradition
The German tradition of Christmas markets directly inspires these markets.
- Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Christkindlmarket Chicago, Illinois
- The Denver Christkindlmarket, Colorado
- Carmel Christkindlmarkt, Indiana
Iconic City Holiday Markets
These are large-scale markets that define the holiday season in major metropolitan centers.
- Christmas Villages in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- The Downtown Holiday Market in Washington, D.C.
- The German Christmas Village in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, Maryland
- Nutcracker Market in Houston, Texas
Regional Holiday Favorites
These smaller, community-focused markets offer unique regional charm and local flavor.
- Kerstmarkt in Holland, Michigan
- Georgetown Christmas Market in Colorado
- Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
- Christmas In The Village in Mount Blanchard, Ohio