By John Gonzalez
Now, here’s some news you can use! And another good reason to visit the Upper Peninsula of Michigan as we celebrate the holidays.
The U.P.’s very first Christmas Market will open the day after Thanksgiving 2026 and run for two weekends in Ishpeming, just a few miles down the road from Marquette.
In this special podcast for Behind the Mitten, our good friend and broadcaster Caleb Gordon turns correspondent and talks to organinzer Kevin Corkin about this first-year event, the Ishpeming Kirskindlmarkt.
They talk about what inspired them to bring it to Ishpeming as oppoosed to a larger city like Marquette. They talk about what you can expect, such as local artisans, festive food, warm drinks, music, lights, and family fun! And they talk about beverages like mulled wine and a special beer with spices from Upper Hand Brewing Company. Yes, BTM listeners, there will be a pub!
All of this takes place Thanksgiving weekend, and the first weekend in December outside the historic Mather in downtown Ishpeming. Admission is free.
Listen to the interview here, and get more details below:
Ishpeming Kriskindlmarkt
Opening Day, Friday November 27
2PM—Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening
4PM—Tapping of the Golden Keg (Snowshoe Pub)
6PM—Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Market open until 9PM
Snowshoe Pub open 4-10PM
Saturday, November 28
Market open Noon-9PM
Snowshoe Pub open 4-10PM
Friday, December 4
Market open 4PM-9PM
Snowshoe Pub open 4-10PM
Saturday, December 5
Market open Noon-9PM
Snowshoe Pub open 4-10PM
Admission: Free and open to the public!
Where: 107 E Canda Street, Ishpeming, MI 49849
More info: ishkindlmarkt.com
