5 Must-see Attractions at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2024
Christkindlmarket Des Moines returns this holiday season, bringing a traditional European-inspired Christmas market experience to Principal Park in Des Moines. Presented by the Iowa European Cultural Connection, this beloved holiday market will run from December 5 at 5 PM through December 8, 2024.
With free admission, Christkindlmarket Des Moines offers visitors a chance to explore unique holiday entertainment, sample authentic European-inspired foods and drinks, and take part in cherished seasonal traditions. Here are five highlights you won’t want to miss at Christkindlmarket Des Moines this year.
1. New Christkindlmarket Drink: Lebkuchen Eierlikör (Gingerbread Eggnog)
Christkindlmarket Des Moines introduces a new festive drink this year: Lebkuchen Eierlikör, a rich gingerbread-flavored eggnog perfect for holiday celebrations. Enjoy this seasonal treat as is or add a splash of brandy for extra warmth. Plus, to make your experience even better, the beer garden now has a second refill line, so you can spend less time waiting and more time savoring all Christkindlmarket has to offer!
2. Family-Friendly Event at Christkindlmarket Des Moines: Breakfast with St. Nick
Bring the family to Christkindlmarket Des Moines on December 8 from 9 AM to 10:45 AM for an unforgettable Breakfast with St. Nick! This festive holiday event includes a delicious breakfast buffet, a special storytime with St. Nick himself, and a chance to snap a memorable photo with the beloved holiday figure. Each ticket also comes with a drink voucher and a commemorative Christkindlmarket mug to take home. Don’t miss this family-friendly experience to kick off the season!
3. New at Christkindlmarket: After-Hours Festivities in Yuletide Hall
Enjoy extended holiday fun at Christkindlmarket Des Moines with After-Hours in Yuletide Hall on Friday and Saturday nights! This new experience allows visitors to stay at the market from 9 PM to 10 PM in the cozy, heated Yuletide Hall tent. Warm up, sing along, and dance to live music performed by a local band—perfect for capping off your evening at Christkindlmarket Des Moines.
4. Non-Profit Silent Tree Auction
Don’t miss the cherished Silent Tree Auction at Christkindlmarket Des Moines! Now in its 8th year, this event features beautifully decorated trees from the Daughter of Norway-Eva Nansen Lodge and other local nonprofits. Stroll through a peaceful display of uniquely adorned trees and place your bids to support a good cause. This charming tradition is a must-see at Christkindlmarket and adds a meaningful touch to the holiday season.
5. Food. Food. And More Food at Christkindlmarket Des Moines.
No visit to Christkindlmarket Des Moines is complete without sampling the incredible food! From savory to sweet, there’s something for every taste. Be sure to try favorites like Hotsy Totsy, Creme de la Crepe, The Big Red Food Truck, Brick & Ember Pizza Co, and Kartoffelsack. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty meals or delightful treats, Christkindlmarket Des Moines has you covered—no one leaves with an empty stomach!
Don’t Miss Out on Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2024!
Christkindlmarket Des Moines offers something for everyone, from festive foods and drinks to family-friendly experiences like Breakfast with St. Nick and beautifully decorated trees in the Silent Tree Auction. This holiday favorite only runs through December 8, so mark your calendar and join in the festive spirit at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2024!
