About This Festival

The Carmel Christkindlmarkt is a large traditional German Christmas market held annually in Carmel, Indiana, at Carter Green, between The Palladium and The Tarkington Theater. The 2025 event runs from November 22 to December 24, but is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays as well as on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. It offers authentic German food, drinks, and gifts sourced from Germany and German-speaking regions, featuring favorites like raclette, Glühwein (mulled wine), pretzels, and wurst.

The market’s hours vary by day:

  • Wednesdays and Thursdays: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Fridays and Saturdays: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Sundays: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Special hours on Nov. 26 (12-9 p.m.), Dec. 15-16 (4-9 p.m.), Dec. 22-23 (12-9 p.m.), and Dec. 24 (12-4 p.m.)[1][2][3][4].

Event Atmosphere and Surroundings:
Carter Green provides a festive, picturesque outdoor setting adjacent to major cultural landmarks like The Palladium and The Tarkington Theater. This central location in Carmel’s city center creates a vibrant holiday vibe infused with traditional German charm. The atmosphere is lively yet family-friendly, with holiday music, artisan demonstrations, and warm holiday aromas.

Key Features and Activities:

  • Food & Drink: Over 60 huts serve authentic German foods and beverages, including mulled wines, sausages, pretzels, and raclette. A highlight is the towering 33-foot Glühwein Pyramid decorated with over 3,000 lights, offering a variety of warm beverages and collectible mugs[2][4].

  • Artisan Demonstrations: German craftspeople demonstrate their skills live, such as wood carving, toy assembly, and nutcracker making. Notable artisans like Markus Wagner and Ringo Ringo Müller from Seiffen, Germany, participate[3].

  • Live Entertainment: Traditional German music is performed, including the Midwest Alphorns led by Dr. Peggy DeMers. The Christkind (the traditional gift-bringer) makes an appearance to ring the opening bell and greet visitors with photo opportunities[3].

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: The Kinderecke (children’s corner) offers crafts, holiday characters, and interactive activities such as meeting Charlie Chipmunk & Friends, providing an engaging festive experience for young visitors[4].

  • Ice at Carter Green: A central outdoor ice skating rink within the market perimeter offers rentals and reservations, allowing visitors to skate while enjoying decorations and holiday music[2].

  • Transportation: A free Holiday Trolley service connects key Carmel entertainment districts, including stops near the market, helping visitors explore the area easily[3].

Typical Daily Schedule Snapshot:

  • Noon/early afternoon: Market opens (except Wed/Thu 4 p.m. start)
  • Afternoon: Artisan demonstrations and kids’ activities ongoing
  • 4-9 p.m.: Peak hours with live music and German entertainment shows
  • Evening: Socializing, enjoying food, beverages, and ice skating

History and Founding:
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt was founded to bring the authentic German Christmas market tradition to the United States. It has grown to be recognized as one of the best Christmas markets in the US by providing a genuine experience with authentic German food, crafts, and music. The market has become a seasonal highlight in Hamilton County, blending cultural heritage with local holiday celebrations[2][4].

Accessibility:
The event site is handicapped accessible, ensuring inclusive enjoyment for all visitors[4].

Contact Information:

  • Phone: (317) 559-6608
  • Website: carmelchristkindlmarkt.com
  • Facebook: facebook.com/carmelchristkindlmarkt

This market offers a rich sensory experience with food, sights, sounds, crafts, and seasonal entertainment, encapsulating the festive spirit of a traditional German Christmas market in a welcoming Indiana setting.