Experience European-Style Holiday Markets in 6 Major U.S. Cities

Holiday markets, a European tradition, draw visitors each season to iconic cities like Vienna, Prague, and Brussels. These markets feature handmade crafts, seasonal foods, warm drinks, and a unique festive atmosphere that attracts travelers globally. For those in the U.S., however, experiencing European-style holiday magic no longer requires an international flight. Several American cities now host annual holiday markets that capture this spirit, blending authentic European charm with local flair.

Denver, Colorado, known for its holiday lights, offers the Denver Christkindl Market, a German-inspired holiday celebration complete with goulash, bratwurst, and mulled wine. Boston’s Snowport Winter Village transforms the Seaport District with lights, curling lanes, and over 120 local vendors. In Washington, D.C., the Downtown Holiday Market and the Dupont Circle Holiday Market bring festive vibes to the city with crafts, live music, and food stalls.

Philadelphia’s Christmas Village at LOVE Park replicates German-style holiday markets, featuring European vendors, warm Gluhwein, and traditional treats. Chicago’s Christkindlmarket, at Daley Plaza and Aurora’s RiverEdge Park, is one of the largest U.S. holiday markets with a strong focus on European foods and handcrafted gifts. Lastly, New York City offers three main markets—Union Square, Columbus Circle, and Bryant Park—offering hundreds of unique vendors, a wide range of international cuisine, and ice skating.

These American holiday markets provide travelers with a European-style experience close to home, ideal for savoring festive foods and crafts without the trip abroad.