Cincinnati residents can trace their lineage back to countless areas of our world, but German roots seem to run especially deep in the Queen City. From family traditions to popular annual festivals, Cincinnati is a great place to live if you want to celebrate your German heritage. One of the most festive ways to do so is at Cincinnati’s very own German Christmas Market — Christkindlmarkt. This unique and authentic holiday event takes place this weekend and it’s an annual tradition you’ll want to visit with your entire family.
This year, the Germania Society of Cincinnati will celebrate their 21st annual Christkindlmarkt, an authentic German Christmas market right here in Cincinnati. Held at Germania Park on W. Kemper, this family-friendly event takes place the weekend before Thanksgiving each year and is a popular way for many to kick off the holiday season.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
The market is held under heated tents, as well as throughout the park. It begins on Friday, November 16th from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and continues on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
Admission is only $3 for those over 12 years old and parking is free. The market is well stocked with imported German items that make excellent gifts and collectibles. You’ll find steins, nutcrackers, ornaments, linens, and much more.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
The food at Christkindlmarkt is also a favorite feature and includes many German specialties. The Dill Pickle Soup is legendary, as well as the baked potato bar, German bratwurst and other authentic dishes, and several desserts such as creme puffs. You will not go hungry with a visit to this Christmas market.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
The entertainment is lively and festive and perfect for the whole family. There is live music, as well as performances that take place all weekend on a stage within the heated tent.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
And one of the magical highlights of the event is the Lantern Parade. This German tradition honors Sankt Martin (St. Martin) and families may participate by bringing their own lantern or purchasing one at the event. It begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday and you can learn more about this lovely tradition here.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
Christkindlmarkt also includes visits from Saint Nicholas, as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus, and others. The entire gathering is a wonderful way to celebrate these festive German traditions and the heritage of so many Cincinnati residents.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
Christkindlmarkt has long been a tradition for many Cincinnatians and if you have yet to experience it for yourself, try to make it to the celebration this weekend. Experience the German roots of Cincinnati at this authentic Christmas market that’s a one-of-a-kind holiday experience in the Queen City.
Germania Society of Cincinnati
Put on by the Germania Society of Cincinnati, Christkindlmarkt is a festive annual event that everyone will enjoy and should add to their holiday calendar. Is this a tradition for your family each year? What German traditions do you carry out? Let us know in the comments!
Germania Society of Cincinnati
Christkindlmarkt is held at Germania Park at 3529 W. Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45251. For more information, visit its website here.
And if you want some true holiday nostalgia, check out these vintage photos in Cincinnati, featured in our previous article here.
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