3 Things to Know About Christkindlmarket Des Moines

Since 2016, Christkindlmarket Des Moines has brought a bit of European culture to Central Iowa. Happening annually the first weekend in December at Principal Park in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), the market boasts European cultural craft vendors from all over the Midwest. At the free, volunteer-led festival, you’ll find delicious food, warm mugs of Glühwein and plenty of live, musical performances. There’s something for all ages and you may find yourself wanting to come multiple times. Here’s three things to know.

1. There’s Something for Everyone

Christkindlmarket Des Moines has something for all ages. Bring the kids and checkout the kid’s crafts in theKinderKorner presented by MidAmerican Energy Company. Have a date night (or day) with some craft beer in the Biergarten, where you’ll find a curated selection of brews, including some specially brewed for the festival from Iowa breweries. Or kick back and relax with live music and a warm cup or festive mug of Glühwein (mulled, spiced wine) in Yuletide Hall.

2. You Can Get Your Holiday Gifts All in One Place

Besides plenty of food and drinks, there are many arts and specialty gift vendors at the market! Vendors come from all over the Midwest to sell traditional European-style goods. A full list of craft vendors can be found on the website. Specialty gift vendors also do demonstrations of how their wares are created; you can find the schedule of the demonstrations on the website. Pre-order uniquely made items and pick them up while at the market.

3. You Can Participate

Thought-out the weekend there are several opportunities to get involved with the festivities. At 6 p.m. on Friday evening the opening ceremony features a parade around the venue with St. Nicholas and the Christkind. Kids of all ages are invited to join the procession and see the lighting of the tree! At 6:30 p.m. on Saturday watch or join in the Krampuslauf (Running of the Krampuses). All weekend long cut loose in Yuletide Hall as you enjoy the many musical performances.

Come experience the magic of Christkindlmarket Des Moines, Dec. 1 – 4. See the full schedule on the website. For more information about Christkindlmarket Des Moines, organized by the Iowa European Cultural Connection (IECC), or to volunteer, check out the website and get a full list of vendors, events and more!

P.S. There are reindeer!

Mission of the Iowa European Cultural Connection (IECC): To connect all Iowans with European traditions, language learning and cultural experiences.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses or events specific to Downtown DSM.