Fa La La Along the Riverfront
The holidays in Cincinnati are about to sparkle like never before. Beginning November 22, the Servatii Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt returns to Smale Riverfront Park with more space, more cheer, and more opportunities to celebrate together. What began as a cozy riverside market has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated seasonal experiences. In 2025, it will stretch from the Moerlein Lager House to Carol Ann’s Carousel, creating a true holiday corridor along the Ohio River.
This year’s expansion reflects something bigger than twinkling lights and mugs of glühwein. It represents Cincinnati’s ability to weave community, tradition, and economic growth into a single, unforgettable event. It is free to attend, open Thursday through Sunday with special holiday hours, and designed to welcome families, friends, and visitors from across the region.
A Holiday Corridor that Celebrates Community
The riverfront is already one of Cincinnati’s most scenic and lively destinations. By connecting Moerlein Lager House to Carol Ann’s Carousel, the Christkindlmarkt transforms the area into a living postcard. Visitors will stroll beneath strings of white lights, pass through wooden vendor huts, and hear the sounds of carolers and choirs drifting through the air.
“From the beginning, our vision has been to highlight the incredible assets of Smale Riverfront Park,” said Greg Hardman, Managing Member of Moerlein Lager House and Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. “By incorporating Carol Ann’s Carousel and programming every space between, guests will experience a fully immersive holiday village unlike anything else in Cincinnati.”
New Additions for 2025
Stock Yards Bank & Trust Fest Tent
The new Fest Tent introduces a massive LED screen, a stage packed with entertainment, and food and beverage offerings that make it a must-visit destination.
Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell Igloo Boardwalk
Heated igloos for up to 15 guests provide a cozy retreat and include $300 in bonus gift cards to enjoy throughout the market.
Themed Character Days
Santa, elves, princesses, superheroes, and the Golden Christkind will bring magical moments to life for children and families.
Cincinnati Karaoke Championships
Every Thursday night in December, the Fest Tent becomes a stage for karaoke competitions. Winners will advance to the championship round on December 20, hosted by Kiss107’s JonJon and Friends.
Holiday Beer Extravaganza
On November 28 and 29, more than 20 breweries will offer samples of seasonal beers under the Fest Tent.
Santa’s Big Red Mailbox
Located at the Walnut Street Fountain, kids can send letters directly to the North Pole.
Carol Ann’s Carousel and Holiday Train
On select weekends, the carousel and train will create a hub of holiday activity. Discounted ride packages can be purchased online.
A 2025 commemorative Christkindlmarkt Pin will also support the Munich Sister City Association of Cincinnati and its student exchange program.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The Christkindlmarkt is more than a holiday attraction. Events like this contribute to seasonal tourism, strengthen small businesses, and celebrate the German heritage that helped shape Cincinnati. Vendors showcase handcrafted goods, artisans display their work, and restaurants and breweries experience a winter surge in foot traffic.
By activating multiple spaces across Smale Riverfront Park, the market brings more people downtown during a critical retail season. It also helps foster an identity for the city that blends heritage with hospitality.
When and Where to Experience the Magic
Dates: November 22 – December 28, 2025
Admission: Free
Regular Hours
Thursday: 5–9 p.m.
Friday: 5–10 p.m.
Saturday: 12–10 p.m.
Sunday: 12–7 p.m.
Special Holiday Hours
Thanksgiving Eve (Nov. 26): 5–9 p.m.
Black Friday (Nov. 29): 12–10 p.m.
Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 3–7 p.m.
Location: Moerlein Lager House & Schmidlapp Event Lawn, 115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202, extending to Carol Ann’s Carousel.
Parking: Directly beneath Moerlein Lager House in the Cincinnati Riverfront Garage.
Full event details, vendor listings, and igloo reservations can be found at www.cincinnatichristkindlmarkt.com.
Honoring Tradition While Building Something New
The Christkindlmarkt traces its roots to Germany, where festive outdoor markets have been a cornerstone of holiday celebrations for centuries. Cincinnati has a long connection to those traditions, and this event honors them while making them distinctly local. Visitors will find Bavarian pretzels from Servatii Pastry Shop & Deli, craft beer from Moerlein Lager House, and unique holiday moments that belong entirely to the Queen City.