Christkindlmarket 2026 Schedule Announced

Christkindlmarket has unveiled its 2026 holiday opening dates. The market will be held at three locations: Daley Plaza, Gallagher Way in Chicago, and RiverEdge Park in Aurora.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza. The market first appeared at Pioneer Court in 1996 before transitioning to its current spot. Entry to the markets is free. German American Events manages the setup of vendors across each site.

A new design for the drink vessel will be introduced before the markets begin this year. Notable attractions include Dennis Zinke’s roasted almonds with Nutella at Daley Plaza.

Details for Each Location

Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington St.)

• Open Nov. 20 through Dec. 24
• Hours: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday to Thursday
• Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Thanksgiving (Nov. 26) and Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Gallagher Way (3635 N. Clark St.)

• Open Nov. 20 through Dec. 31
• Monday to Thursday: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Thanksgiving (Nov. 26) and Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Dec. 21 – 23: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Dec. 28 – 30: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31): 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Closed Christmas Day (Dec. 25)

RiverEdge Park (360 N. Broadway, Aurora)

• Open Nov. 20 through Dec. 24
• Thursday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Thanksgiving (Nov. 26) and Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Dec. 21 – 23: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.