Kitchener Christmas Market: Authentic German Christkindl Market

Outdoors at the Kitchener Christmas Market

A section of King Street is closed to traffic for the Christkindl Market. It's lined with the small wooden huts that are characteristic of Christmas markets.

Each stall offers something different. There are plants and Christmas trees, blown glass, handmade wares, traditional German treats, and more.

You'll also find Christmas lights and animated reindeer decorations at the Kitchener Christmas Market. Though the outdoor area is smaller than others I've visited in the past, I loved the warm feelings you get from the spirit of the holiday season.

Of course, there's a booth selling Glühwein! It's a special mulled wine that's sold at German Christmas markets. It's the perfect drink to warm you up on a chilly December evening.

There's also a skating rink outside Kitchener city hall, a big Christmas tree, and live music by Christmas choirs for added holiday cheer. Though we didn't see them on opening night, there are blacksmith demonstrations on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Kitchener Christmas Market: The Indoor Market

Unlike other ones I've visited, the Kitchener Christmas market has a separate indoor portion with more vendors. It's a great place to warm up and go shopping.

There are many traditional German products and local handmade goodies. It's a great opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done.

The Christkindl Market is located inside the Kitchener City Hall, and it's decorated beautifully. In total, there are over 90 vendors both inside and outside. There are two levels of vendors in total, and the majority of the booths are indoors.

KrampusKINDL

Did you know that only one block from the Christkindl Market lies the darker side of German Christmas markets...celebrating the Krampus?

From Friday to Sunday, be sure to visit KrampusKINDL at 44 Gaukel Street in Kitchener.

This is an indoor event featuring unique gifts, ornaments, cards, installations and more. If you love embracing the quirky and unusual, this is the Christmas market for you.

While supplies last, if you register in advance for your free ticket and present it at the front entrance, you'll receive a signed official Krampuskindl poster!

Libro's Loyal to Local Holiday Market

There's a third holiday market taking place in downtown Kitchener! On Saturday, December 6th from 3pm to 7pm, stop by the Libro Credit Union. It's steps away from City Hall and the Christkindl Market.

The Libro Holiday Market showcases the works of local artisans and crafters. If you're visiting Christkindl Market on the Saturday, you should definitely pop over to Libro to continue your holiday shopping.

I hope you enjoy visiting the Kitchener Christmas Market (and all of the markets!) over this magical weekend in December.