Skate, Sip & Celebrate at Christkindlmarkt 2024
As the holiday season approaches, the twinkling lights, festive sounds, and comforting smells of the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt are almost here to spread joy across the city. Now in its third enchanting year, the Christkindlmarkt has quickly become a beloved Cincinnati holiday tradition, attracting locals and visitors alike to celebrate in true European holiday market style.
Held at the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn at Smale Riverfront Park, this seasonal wonderland opens on November 22, 2024, and runs through January 5, 2025. With free admission, it’s an accessible experience that’s packed with activities, entertainment, and holiday cheer. Here’s a guide to what you can expect when attending the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt, especially if it’s your first time!
Event Overview
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Moerlein Lager House, Schmidlapp Event Lawn, Smale Riverfront Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
Admission: Free
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday & Thursday: 5 PM - 9 PM
Friday: 5 PM - 10 PM
Saturday: 12 PM - 10 PM
Sunday: 12 PM - 7 PM
Special Holiday Hours: Open on Black Friday (November 29) from 12 PM - 10 PM, with extended hours during Christmas and New Year’s weeks
What to Expect at the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
If it’s your first visit, get ready to be immersed in a holiday experience unlike any other in Cincinnati. This market is inspired by the traditional German Christkindlmarkts and brings together festive decorations, seasonal treats, live entertainment, and unique holiday shopping.
Let’s dive into some of the market’s top features and attractions.
Festive Activities and Attractions
The 2024 Christkindlmarkt offers a variety of attractions, catering to all ages and tastes. Whether you’re bringing the kids, planning a cozy night out with friends, or simply wanting to soak in the holiday atmosphere, there’s something here for everyone!
1. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Holiday Ice Rink
New this year, the Holiday Ice Rink is set to be a major highlight, offering wintertime skating fun for all ages. There’s nothing quite like gliding on the ice under the holiday lights!
2. Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell Igloo Experience
For groups, this unique experience is the perfect way to enjoy the market together. The Igloo Boardwalk features cozy, private igloos that accommodate up to 14 guests. And here’s the best part: each reservation includes $300 in bonus gift cards for food and drinks, making it a fun and festive option for families, friends, or even a holiday work gathering.
3. Themed Days and Weekly Specials
Each day brings something new to discover:
Family Fun Wednesdays: Kids 12 and under eat free inside the Moerlein Lager House with a Holiday Ice Rink ticket, making it a memorable (and cost-effective) night out for families.
Themed Character Days: Every Saturday and Sunday, expect festive characters roaming the market. These magical moments are perfect for photos and creating lasting memories.
Thirsty Thursdays: Adults can enjoy half-price bottles of wine and bourbon pours, making this a great time to unwind and catch up with friends.
Hot Chocolate Fridays: Warm up with complimentary hot chocolate throughout the market—a cozy, sweet treat to enjoy as you explore.
4. New for 2024
This year, the Christkindlmarkt has expanded with several new additions:
Der Food Court Expansion: Enjoy new food options, including a Hot Mini Donuts stand and a Raclette Melted Cheese Sandwich stand, bringing delicious aromas and comforting flavors to the heart of the market.
Roebling Glass Warming Tent Bar: Take a break here to enjoy a warm drink and stunning views of the iconic Roebling Bridge, enhancing the market’s already festive setting.
Children’s Crafts and Character Tent: Families will love this dedicated space for kids’ crafts and activities, offering younger visitors a chance to create holiday-themed crafts to take home.
5. Shopping and Giving Back
No holiday market experience would be complete without a little shopping, and the Christkindlmarkt offers a variety of vendors selling unique holiday gifts, decorations, and keepsakes. For a special touch, pick up the 2024 commemorative Christkindlmarkt Pin. Proceeds from pin sales support the Munich Sister City Association of Cincinnati and their student exchange program, letting you give back to the community as you shop.
Supporting Local and Community-Centered
This year’s Christkindlmarkt is brought to life by a lineup of sponsors who truly believe in fostering community spirit. Title Sponsor Servatii’s, along with presenting sponsors like Bromwell’s, Go Metro, The Banks, and Moerlein Lager House, have come together to create a remarkable holiday experience. Additional support from Western & Southern and the Cincinnati Parks Foundation ensures that the market remains a family-friendly, festive event that’s accessible to all.
A Cincinnati Holiday Tradition in the Making
For only its third year, the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt has already established itself as a go-to holiday destination for families, friends, and anyone looking to make the season a little brighter. Nestled in a picturesque location along the Ohio River and framed by the Roebling Suspension Bridge, this market offers a full lineup of activities, delicious food, and festive entertainment for a winter outing you won’t want to miss.
Plan Your Visit
With free admission and a prime location near Cincinnati’s top attractions, the Christkindlmarkt is easy to reach and offers ample nearby parking. Bring your loved ones, lace up your skates, reserve an igloo, or simply enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate as you stroll through this magical holiday village. The Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt truly has something for everyone and is an experience you’ll want to make an annual tradition.
Mark your calendar for November 22, 2024, and get ready to immerse yourself in holiday spirit at the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt!