Christkindl Markt, Karen and Meghan | Calder News
Christkindl Markt has only been around for a few years, yet it's already a holiday tradition at the Downtown Market.
Hundreds of thousands of locals pack into the Downtown Market campus every winter for raclette, giant pretzels, handmade gifts, curling, and good vibes with friends.
Last week, I sat down with Karen and Meghan, the event’s GM and sales and marketing manager, to get a behind-the-scenes look at how Christkindl Markt started, how it has grown, and where it’s going.
The idea for Christkindl Markt came from Downtown Market President and CEO Mimi Fritz’s experience visiting Christmas markets across Europe, and she loved the feeling of community that European markets create: families bundled up, friends meeting outside, shared food, shared traditions. And decided to bring it to Grand Rapids.
After having a delayed launch in 2020, the first Christkindl Markt officially opened in 2023.
What’s changed for this year’s market?
The first year had about 30 vendors, all clustered along one side of the market. The second year doubled the number of vendors to 60, stretching the footprint along the US-131 side and creating a true walkable loop.
Curling, which somehow became a runaway hit, also doubled in size. And one of the most noticeable upgrades came in the form of Alpenglobes, the cozy private domes that now dot the market.
“In year one, we used our COVID huts,” Karen said. “People loved the concept, so we stepped it up.” The new globes feel more like little winter living rooms — warm lighting, small tables, and the ideal spot to escape the cold with food and friends.
Accessibility updates were another major improvement. Small details like ramped cord covers now make it easier for wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers to move comfortably through the market. Clearer signage at the bars came directly from community feedback, too.
“We’re actively listening every day,” Meghan said. “If someone suggests something on social or by email, it gets to us, and we make changes.”
What makes this holiday market special?
So Christkindl Markt is a holiday market with food, music, and occasional activities. So I asked, What makes this holiday market so interesting.
The answer - curation.
Every vendor is hand-selected through a committee-style process. More than 200 vendors applied this year, and only a fraction were accepted. Even similar categories (like pottery, jewelry, or alpaca goods) are chosen so each one brings something unique.
There’s also a “pop-up” system for small or emerging makers: two booths rotate weekly so newer businesses can try out the market without committing to the full six weeks.
The goal? Allow businesses to test the market and also provide visitors with an opportunity to see new vendors.
What does the team recommend?
If you’ve never been or you’re coming back for round two or three, here are 3 recommendations from Karen and Meghan:
Try the authentic food
Raclette (“stinky cheese”), schnitzel, potato pancakes, spaetzle, sausages, and giant soft pretzels. The team works hard to source vendors that offer legitimate European-style dishes you don’t find everywhere else in GR.Check out the Alpenglobes
They’re wildly popular for a reason. If you have a group or just want a warm little space to yourself, this is the move.
Enjoy the extras
Curling on the Downtown Market balcony, Oompah band nights on Thursdays, Santa and Mrs. Claus on Wednesdays, Krampus bartending later in the season, fire pits with s’mores kits, and the Bubbles Bar inside the greenhouse. There’s something different happening almost every night.
And remember the best part? Entry is free.
If you’re looking to walk around, take photos, and sip a hot chocolate, the Markt is built for that too.
How you can get involved
Alright, so you’ve got a bit about the history, the Christkindl experience, and the team’s recommendations.
Whether you’re a business, maker, or person, looking for a good experience, here are ways to get involved.
For businesses or makers:
Vendor applications open in January. Spots go fast, so apply early.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for companies wanting to support the event and get visibility.
For locals looking for a good experience:
Make the trip to the market at least once, but plan on coming back. With so many vendors and food options, nobody gets through the whole thing in one visit.
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