Christkindlmarkt is a German market with food, beverages, entertainment, and an outdoor ice skating rink. It is in Carmel, Indiana, and their opening and closing dates change yearly, but this year they opened on November 22, and they will close for the year on December 24.
They have over 60 market huts and a variety of entertainment, ranging from live singers to organised crafts.
The skating rink is $11 for 11+ and $9 for 10 and under. There is an additional $4 for skate rentals. This closes an hour earlier than the actual market.
I went on December 3, and during the time frame I was there, they had performances by the Carmel elementary choir and the Castlewood singers. Both were very good, however, I enjoyed the elementary choir more. They sounded wonderful and very well practiced, although they may have just had an advantage due to being kids.
The market offers a diverse range of food options, from sweet to savory. During my visit, I sampled dishes from huts #54, #45, and #13. At Hut #54, I enjoyed the lamb kebabs with their garlic sauce.
Hut #45 specialized in truffles, and I was able to try a variety of unique flavors.
Finally, Hut #13 served Belgian waffles with an assortment of toppings, including a gluten-free option, which I found especially accommodating.
Each thing I tried was delicious, but the waffles were probably my favorite due to the customization factor.
In addition to the food stalls, several huts featured handmade jewelry and other handcrafted items. I purchased a beautiful set of earrings from one of these vendors. They cost $25 and are worth every penny. Their quality is excellent. They also offer necklaces, bracelets, and a small selection of rings.
Overall, Christkindlmarkt offers a festive experience for a diverse range of ages. From the wide variety of unique foods to the live entertainment and handcrafted goods, there is something for everyone. My visit was very enjoyable and memorable, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique seasonal experience and a warm holiday atmosphere.