The holiday season has officially arrived in downtown Grand Rapids with the opening of the 2025 Christkindl Markt at the Downtown Market. Now in its third year, the Christkindl Markt is a holiday market inspired by European Christmas Villages. Attracting more than a quarter of a million visitors annually over its six-week run, the Markt has quickly become one of the city’s most anticipated and cherished holiday traditions.
Setup for this year’s Markt began earlier this month, and more than 60 hand-selected vendors, along with the Christkindl Markt staff, have spent the past week moving in, decorating their sheds, and preparing their booths ahead of opening day.
“I’ve worked on many events in Grand Rapids, but the Christkindl Markt is one I’m most excited about,” said Glenn Del Vecchio, Chief Operating Officer of the Downtown Market. “I’m so incredibly proud to be part of an event that gives our community the opportunity to celebrate the holidays in a meaningful way, while also having a significant economic impact on the city.”
Visitors will find no shortage of festive beverages to enjoy while strolling the Markt. This year’s commemorative 2025 mug, a slim dark green design, debuts alongside returning favorites and new additions. Guests can sip red or white Glühwein, hot cocoa, Kinderpunsch, hot cider, bubbles, Dunk the Halls by Brewery Vivant, and the newest offering, Eierpunsch.
A full lineup of activities will take place throughout the duration of the Markt, including visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, s’mores making, letters to Santa, live music in the Beverage Hall, entertainment at Rák Thai, and extended Aftermarket Sips specialty hours. The season will also include special themed events, like the new Krampus Bash with a DJ and extended hours.
The Christkindl Markt is open Wednesday through Sunday, now through December 23, 2025, with Monday, December 22, and Tuesday, December 23 serving as the final two operating days before the Markt closes for the season.
The Christkindl Markt extends a heartfelt thank you to our 2025 sponsors whose support allows us to bring even more holiday magic to the community this season. Thank you to Legends Global, Pioneer Construction, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, Wood TV8, RDV Corporation, Experience Grand Rapids, The Secchia Family, David & Carol Van Andel Family Foundation, Star 105.7, and AHC Hospitality.
For more details on hours, parking, vendors, beverages, activities, events, and more, visit GRChristmas.com.
