Christkindlmarkt’s 25th anniversary begins November 17 to December 23 Thursday to Sunday!

Thursday & Sunday: 11a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 23: Close at 6 p.m.

Whether it’s Christmas music, sparkling lights, or decorated trees that get people excited for the holidays, Christkindl Markt provides Christmas spirit to everyone who attends.

Bethlehem Christkindl Markt located at the Steel Stacks celebrated its 25th anniversary this season, welcoming families, friends, and people of all ages.

The Steel Stacks were lit red and green, bringing a warm Christmas feeling on the frigid Saturday night. Christmas trees could be found in every corner, decorated and covered in snow.

Aisles upon aisles of stands filled the ginormous tents as vendors from all over sold their unique homemade items. Visitors could find anything from English toffees, bamboo pillows, and bonsai trees, to ice sculptures, glass blown ornaments, and wood carvings.

One main attraction included the Käthe Wohflarht collectibles from Germany. Her display perched handmade German ornaments, cuckoo clocks, Erzgebirge Pyramids, and nutcrackers.

These collector’s items were extremely intricate and amazing to look at. They’d surely make a great gift for anyone, especially someone of European descent.

Crowds also gathered around the ice carving and glass blowing demonstrations. Here, customers watched sculptures being created and had the opportunity to create their own glass-blown ornaments.

After visiting over 150 stands, people craved whatever was causing the delicious aroma outside.

The food court was held in a separate tent where visitors enjoyed a live band in a beautifully decorated area. German delicacies such as schnitzel, haluski, stollen, and strudels were sold to anyone willing to try new things, or get a taste of something familiar to their heritage.

Although the food was a major part of this event, people were always seen scurrying to and from tents debating on what to buy for loved ones.

Every year, Christkindl Markt vendors await the most busiest time of the year as the Lehigh Valley gets ready for Christmas and the holiday spirit.