Best Christmas Markets in Chicago (2026)
From the wooden stalls at Daley Plaza to maker fairs and neighborhood bazaars, 19 Christmas markets with dates, admission and a map.
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Chicago's Christmas market season starts in mid-November and runs through New Year's Eve, and the right market depends on what you want from the day. For a first holiday outing, go to Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza. For serious gift shopping, go to One of a Kind or Renegade. For more neighborhood character, plan around the Swedish, German, French, Irish and Japanese American bazaars.
Most of these only run for a weekend or a single day, so check the date before you pick a neighborhood. This guide covers 18 markets in Chicago and one day trip to Aurora. Pick one main market, leave time for something warm to eat, and don't try to cross the whole city in an afternoon.
Last checked November 2026. All times are Central. Admission doesn't include purchases unless noted, and ticket prices may not include checkout fees.
Chicago Christmas Markets at a Glance
Start with your dates, then pick the kind of day you want.
| Market | Neighborhood | 2026 dates | Why go | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza | Loop | Nov 20–Dec 24 | The classic Chicago Christmas market | Free |
| Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville | Wrigleyville | Nov 20–Dec 31; closed Dec 25 | North Side option, and open after Christmas | Free |
| Millennium Park Holiday Market | Loop | Nov 20–22 | Opening weekend, with the city tree | Free |
| Christkindlmarket Aurora | Aurora | Nov 20–Dec 24; mostly Thu–Sun | The biggest of the three, as a day trip | Free |
| Randolph Street Holiday Market | West Loop | Nov 14–15; Dec 12–13 | Vintage and antiques | $19 online; $20 gate |
| Chicago Artisan Market | Fulton Market; Ravenswood | Nov 15, Dec 13 (Fulton); Nov 28–29 (Ravenswood) | Local makers, plus a meal nearby | $8 advance; $10 door |
| Markets for Makers | Ravenswood | Nov 21–22 | Makers, DIY stations and a free tote | $6–$12; VIP $16 |
| One of a Kind Holiday Show | River North | Dec 3–6 | The biggest gift-shopping session | $15, good all four days |
| Drie-cember Market | River North | Dec 5 | Gifts in a historic auditorium | Free |
| Holiday Gift Market at the Salt Shed | Goose Island | Dec 6 | Artisan and vintage gifts in a concert venue | Free RSVP |
| Fresa Frost Fest Market | Ravenswood | Dec 6 | Trinkets, collectibles and stocking stuffers | $4.45 online; 10 and under free |
| SAUCED Night Market Before Xmas | Loop | Dec 11–12 | Shopping as a night out | Free with RSVP |
| Chicago Art Girls Holiday Pop-Up | North Center | Dec 12–13 | Buying directly from women artists | Free |
| Renegade Craft: Chicago Winter | Bridgeport | Dec 18–20 | Design-minded gifts, late in the season | $5 suggested |
| Holiday Delight & Kodomo Matsuri | West Ridge | Nov 14 | Japanese American family festival | Free |
| Lycée French Market | Lincoln Square | Nov 14–15 | French food and artisans | $5 suggested |
| Julmarknad | Andersonville | Dec 5–6; preview Dec 4 | Swedish holiday traditions | Check with the museum |
| Irish American Heritage Center Christmas Bazaar | Mayfair | Dec 6 | A full day of Irish Christmas | Free; breakfast extra |
| DANK Haus Weihnachtsmarkt | Lincoln Square | Dec 12 | German Christmas, indoors | $5 suggested |
The Big Outdoor Christmas Markets in Chicago
These are the markets to pick if you want stalls, cold air and something hot in a mug. Daley Plaza and Aurora run through Christmas Eve, Wrigleyville goes through New Year's Eve, and Millennium Park lasts just one weekend. Daley Plaza also sits in the middle of the free downtown lights walk in our Chicago Christmas lights guide.
Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza
Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Start here if it's your first Chicago Christmas market. It's the original, now in its 30th year, with glühwein in the souvenir mug, potato pancakes, schnitzel and cuckoo clocks in the middle of the Loop. It's compact and gets packed, so go near the 11 a.m. opening on a weekday, then head indoors for a real meal. Dates: Nov 20–Dec 24, daily. Hours: Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Nov 26 and Dec 24 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission: Free. Location: 50 W. Washington St. Good to know: Bring cash, since many vendors haven't taken cards in past years. Allow 60–90 minutes.
Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville
Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60613
Go here if the North Side suits your day better, or if you're in town after Christmas. It's a smaller version of Daley Plaza, with 28 vendors beside Wrigley Field. Winterland next door adds ice skating and ice bumper cars, which makes it an easy family afternoon. Dates: Nov 20–Dec 31; closed Dec 25. Hours: Mon–Thu 3–9 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Dec 21–23 and 28–30 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Nov 26, Dec 24 and Dec 31 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission: Free. Location: Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St. Good to know: Check Winterland activities and tickets separately.
Millennium Park Holiday Market
Chase Promenade North, Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601
This one is for opening weekend, not a random December afternoon. It's a three-day market with shopping, live entertainment and concessions, timed to the city's tree lighting at 6 p.m. on Nov 20. If shopping is the point, come Saturday or early Friday, before the tree-lighting crowd arrives. Dates: Nov 20–22. Hours: Fri–Sat noon–8 p.m.; Sun noon–5 p.m. Admission: Free. Location: Chase Promenade North, Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St. Good to know: The market closes Nov 22, even though the tree stays up into January.
Christkindlmarket Aurora
RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505
The biggest of the three Christkindlmarkets has 60+ vendors at RiverEdge Park, and it deserves a half day of its own. Expect bratwurst, poffertjes, chimney cakes and handmade ornaments, plus more room to move than you'll get in the Loop. It's about 40 miles from downtown, so make it the whole plan. Dates: Nov 20–Dec 24, Thu–Sun, plus Nov 25 and Dec 21–23. Hours: Thu 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Nov 25 and Dec 21–23 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Nov 26 and Dec 24 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission: Free. Location: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora. Good to know: Metra's BNSF line stops a short walk away, so check the return train before you go. You may notice construction at the park this year.
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Chicago Maker Fairs and Holiday Gift Shows
These are the better bets when the gifts matter more than the Christmas scene. All of them are indoors and most run for a day or a weekend, so they're listed by date. For the independent shops to pair with a market day, see our Chicago holiday shopping guide.
Randolph Street Holiday Market
Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL 60607
Start here if you'd rather hunt for a good find than buy a gift set. Vintage, antiques, fashion and design fill Plumbers Hall alongside new handmade pieces. Give yourself time here, especially if you're shopping for a collector. Dates: Nov 14–15 and Dec 12–13. Hours: Sat 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; separate early-buy entry Sat at 9 a.m. Admission: $19 online, $20 at the gate, good for both days of the same weekend; under 12 free. Location: Plumbers Hall, enter at 1340 W. Washington Blvd.
Chicago Artisan Market
Morgan MFG, 401 N. Morgan St., Chicago, IL 60642
There are two locations here, both with local food, fashion, home goods and art. Fulton Market is a one-day Sunday market with 115+ artisans and easy lunch options nearby. Ravenswood is the Thanksgiving weekend edition, and a far better way to spend Small Business Saturday than a trip to the mall. Dates: Fulton Market Nov 15 and Dec 13; Ravenswood Nov 28–29. Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission: $8 advance, $10 door, or four for $20 in advance; under 12 free. Location: Morgan MFG, 401 N. Morgan St.; Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave. Good to know: Both are dog-friendly.
Markets for Makers
Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL 60613
With more than 90 makers at Artifact Events, this one feels more like an outing than an errand. Your ticket includes a tote bag and a free DIY station. Later arrival slots can cost less, but they also leave you less time to browse. Dates: Nov 21–22. Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; VIP early access Sat 10–11 a.m. Admission: $6–$12 by day and arrival time; VIP $16; under 12 free. Location: Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave. Good to know: Door sales are card only.
One of a Kind Holiday Show
THE MART, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor, Chicago, IL 60654
Go here when shopping is the whole point. It's the show's 25th year, with 600+ artists and makers on one floor of THE MART, from ceramics and jewelry to clothing, art and food gifts. The $15 ticket covers all four days, so you don't have to see everything in one trip. Dates: Dec 3–6. Hours: Thu–Sat 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission: $15; under 12 free. Location: THE MART, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor. Good to know: The Brown Line stops in the building. Art on the Mart starts at 7:30 p.m., just after the show closes Thursday through Saturday.
Drie-cember Market
Murphy Auditorium, 50 E. Erie St., Chicago, IL 60611
The Driehaus Museum's Murphy Auditorium hosts this smaller, one-day market, with 25+ local vendors selling vintage jewelry and handcrafted gifts. The room is half the reason to go, and it's an easy stop if you're already in River North. Dates: Dec 5. Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission: Free; walk-ins welcome. Location: 50 E. Erie St. Good to know: Museum galleries and tours aren't included.
Holiday Gift Market at the Salt Shed
The Salt Shed Indoors, 1357 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL 60642
For one Sunday, the concert venue fills with Chicago jewelers, ceramicists, textile artists and vintage vendors. It's less about Christmas decor and more about finding something good for someone with taste. It also makes a nice change from the season's more traditional bazaars. Dates: Dec 6. Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission: Free RSVP; an RSVP doesn't guarantee entry. Location: The Salt Shed Indoors, 1357 N. Elston Ave. Good to know: All ages.
Fresa Frost Fest Market
Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL 60613
Bring teens here, or anyone who'd rather leave with 10 small things than one big gift. Expect 100+ vendors selling charms, crochet plushies, blind boxes, kawaii items and Y2K fashion, plus tooth gems and henna. It's a great place to knock out the stocking stuffers. Dates: Dec 6. Hours: Noon–6 p.m. Admission: $4.45 online; 10 and under free; no refunds. Location: Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave. Good to know: All ages, with two floors and a wheelchair lift. Expect a possible line.
SAUCED Night Market Before Xmas
Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603
SAUCED turns holiday shopping into a night out. Independent vendors share the Chicago Athletic Association with cocktails and a DJ, and the market runs late enough to follow Daley Plaza. It's all ages, but it's the best pick here for a group of friends. Dates: Dec 11–12. Hours: 5–10 p.m. Admission: Free with RSVP. Location: Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave. Good to know: Alcohol is 21 and over.
Chicago Art Girls Holiday Pop-Up
Bell Elementary School, 3730 N. Oakley Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
Everything here comes straight from the person who made it. The pop-up is in its 15th year, with 45+ women artists at Bell Elementary and food vendors for lunch. Ask questions while you're there, especially if you're shopping for someone who's hard to buy for. Dates: Dec 12–13. Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission: Free. Location: Bell Elementary School, 3730 N. Oakley Ave. Good to know: Street parking only this year. Bring a food or personal care donation for Common Pantry if you can.
Renegade Craft: Chicago Winter
Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL 60609
Save this one for late in the season, when you want gifts with some personality. Renegade brings 200+ artists to Bridgeport Art Center, and you'll find more design-minded work than Christmas decor. Friday's 5–8 p.m. night market is the way to beat the weekend crowd. Dates: Dec 18–20. Hours: Fri 5–8 p.m.; Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission: $5 suggested contribution. Location: Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St. Good to know: The Red Line's Sox-35th stop is a short walk away, there's a lot on site, and leashed pets are welcome. An elevator connects the two floors.
Cultural and Neighborhood Holiday Bazaars
Chicago's cultural centers and community groups run some of the most enjoyable markets of the season, with food and performances alongside the shopping. These work especially well for families.
Holiday Delight & Kodomo Matsuri
Japanese American Service Committee, 5700 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60659
This Japanese American community festival at JASC is as much a day out as a market, with vendors, food, cultural performances and activities for kids. The mid-November date makes it a good early start on gifts, well ahead of the busiest weekends. Dates: Nov 14. Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission: Free. Location: Japanese American Service Committee, 5700 N. Lincoln Ave. Good to know: JASC moved from its old Clark Street address, so use North Lincoln.
Lycée French Market
Lycée Français de Chicago, 1929 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago, IL 60640
Come for lunch and stay for the shopping. Local and French artisans sell home pieces, jewelry, clothing and gourmet food at the French international school, and the bistro serves French dishes. Live music and kids' activities make it an easy family outing before Thanksgiving. Dates: Nov 14–15. Hours: Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission: $5 suggested donation. Location: Lycée Français de Chicago, 1929 W. Wilson Ave.
Julmarknad at the Swedish American Museum
Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640
Andersonville's Swedish Christmas market brings gift vendors, Swedish treats, performances and visits from Tomten to the museum. Go on the weekend for the full program, including Swedish Mixed Chorus on Saturday and St. Lucia with Svenska Skolan on Sunday. Then leave time to wander Clark Street. Dates: Dec 5–6; preview sale Dec 4. Hours: Preview 4–8 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission: Check with the museum. Location: 5211 N. Clark St. Good to know: Breakfast with Tomten and the Lucia celebration on Dec 12–13 are separate events.
Irish American Heritage Center Christmas Bazaar
Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave., Chicago, IL 60630
The whole building gets into this one. Vendors spread through the center, with live Irish music and dancing, Santa at Jolly Tots for the kids, and the gift shop open. You can start with Mass and a full Irish breakfast, then finish by the fire at the Fifth Province Pub. Dates: Dec 6. Hours: Doors open 9 a.m.; Mass at 10 a.m. with breakfast after. Admission: Free; RSVP appreciated. Breakfast is $30 adults, $25 seniors, $15 kids 12 and under. Location: 4626 N. Knox Ave. Good to know: There's free parking on site. The elevator is out of service for now, and only the first floor is accessible without stairs. Breakfast is on the fourth floor and Jolly Tots is upstairs, so check before you go.
DANK Haus Weihnachtsmarkt
DANK Haus, 4740 N. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60625
You get German Christmas here without standing outside in December. Local vendors fill the Marunde Ballroom, with glühwein, Gulasch and Käsespätzle to keep you going. Come before 2 p.m. if Santa is part of the plan, then walk over to Lincoln Square's shops. Dates: Dec 12. Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Santa 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Admission: $5 suggested donation. Location: 4740 N. Western Ave. Good to know: The Western Brown Line stop is a block away, and parking is limited.
Chicago Christmas Market Calendar for 2026
The three Christkindlmarkets and most of the short-run fairs overlap, so here's what's on each weekend. Dec 5–6 is the busiest, with six markets to choose from.
| When | What's on |
|---|---|
| Nov 14–15 | Holiday Delight (Nov 14), Lycée French Market, Randolph Street, Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market (Nov 15) |
| Nov 20–22 | All three Christkindlmarkets open Nov 20, Millennium Park Holiday Market, Markets for Makers (Nov 21–22) |
| Nov 28–29 | Chicago Artisan Market in Ravenswood |
| Dec 3–6 | One of a Kind (Thu–Sun), Julmarknad (Dec 4 preview, Dec 5–6), Drie-cember (Dec 5), Salt Shed, Irish American Heritage Center and Fresa Frost Fest (all Dec 6) |
| Dec 11–13 | SAUCED (Dec 11–12), DANK Haus (Dec 12), Art Girls and Randolph Street (Dec 12–13), Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market (Dec 13) |
| Dec 18–20 | Renegade, starting Friday evening |
| Dec 24 | Last day for Daley Plaza and Aurora; all three Christkindlmarkets close at 4 p.m. |
| Dec 26–31 | Wrigleyville only, closing at 4 p.m. on New Year's Eve |
Three Ways to Plan a Christmas Market Day
Two stops is usually plenty. These combinations work because the markets are close together or suit the same kind of day.
The downtown gift run (Dec 3–6). Give One of a Kind most of your time, then walk to Daley Plaza for the outdoor scene and a hot drink. On Thursday through Saturday, finish at the river for Art on the Mart at 7:30 p.m.
The downtown night out (Dec 11–12). Start at Daley Plaza before the evening rush, then head to SAUCED at the Chicago Athletic Association once it opens at 5 p.m. Book dinner from our most festive Christmas restaurants, or keep going at one of our Christmas bars and holiday pop-ups.
The North Side neighborhood day (Dec 5–6 or Dec 12). Make Julmarknad the main event and spend the rest of the afternoon in Andersonville. A week later, DANK Haus does the same job for Lincoln Square. Neither needs a downtown market added on.
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