The Carmel Christkindlmarkt is one of the most beloved holiday markets in the United States, featuring a charming celebration of German heritage, holiday cheer, and community spirit. Returning for the 2025 season from November 22nd through December 24th, the market transforms into a Bavarian winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive music, ice skating, handcrafted gifts, and joyful traditions.
A True German Christmas Market in Indiana
Ranked among the top German Christmas markets in the U.S, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt brings authentic European holiday charm to Indiana. Visitors can stroll through more than 60 vendor huts offering traditional German foods, handcrafted gifts, ornaments, toys, and décor. Enjoy delicious treats such as pretzels, bratwurst, and strudel while sipping Glühwein (hot spiced wine) or Kinderpunsch for the kids.
Children will love visiting the Kinderecke, where crafts, storytelling, and holiday characters make every visit magical. You can even watch artisans and craftsmen create one-of-a-kind pieces, from hand-carved wooden toys to intricate glass ornaments.
Explore the full market layout using the official Market Map to plan your day of shopping, skating, sightseeing, and more!
Featured Events & Ice Skating in the Heart of Carmel
Plan your visit around the Market's seasonal highlights. Opening Day begins on November 22nd with the bell ceremony at midday and a tree lighting celebration in the evening. Families can enjoy Sankt Martinstag story time on November 26th, choir performances during Christkind ChoralFest on December 3rd, and a visit from Sankt Nikolaus on December 6th. Join the German sing along and ornament exchange on December 10th and celebrate Menorah Aflame on December 14th. Lace up again for the Gluhwein Gallop on December 20th and come back for Military Appreciation Day on December 21st.
Between events, head to the Ice at Carter Green. The rink glows under the lights and makes a perfect break between the Main Stage shows, shopping, and hot chocolate stops. Whether you bring your own skates or rent a pair, the ice adds extra holiday magic to every visit!
Complete Your Adventure
Turn your visit to the Christkindlmarkt into a cozy holiday getaway by staying at Prairie Guest House, just a short 15-minute drive from the market. After a day of shopping, skating, and indulging in holiday treats, retreat to our peaceful and historic bed and breakfast for a relaxing stay. Enjoy spacious guest rooms, beautiful grounds, and a homemade breakfast each morning. Book your stay today and make your holiday adventure one to remember!
FAQ's for the Christkindlmarkt in Carmel, Indiana
What are the 2025 Carmel Christkindlmarkt hours?
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt is open from November 22 through December 24, 2025, with the market closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Regular hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 4 PM to 9 PM, Friday and Saturday from 12 PM to 9 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM. The market is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Special holiday hours include November 26 (12 PM – 9 PM), December 15–16 (4 PM – 9 PM), December 22–23 (12 PM – 9 PM), and December 24 (12 PM – 4 PM).
How much does it cost to go to Carmel Christkindlmarkt?
Admission to the market is free for everyone, making it an accessible holiday event for families, couples, and groups. Guests can purchase food, beverages, handcrafted gifts, and souvenirs directly from over 60 vendor huts throughout the market. Certain experiences, such as ice skating at the Ice at Carter Green, require a separate ticket.
Do I need tickets for ice skating?
Skating at the Ice at Carter Green requires a separate admission fee. Tickets and skate rentals can be purchased at the rink or reserved online ahead of time. Guests are welcome to bring their own skates, and the rink is open during regular market hours. Skating beneath the holiday lights is one of the most popular experiences at the Christkindlmarkt, so arriving early or visiting midweek can help avoid long lines.
What food and drinks can i find at the Market?
Visitors can indulge in authentic German holiday specialties, including warm pretzels, bratwurst, raclette, roasted nuts, potato pancakes, and strudel. Seasonal beverages such as Glühwein (mulled wine) and Kinderpunsch (spiced fruit punch) are favorites among guests. Each hut offers its own unique specialties, so it’s worth exploring the entire market to discover new flavors and treats.