Christmas is coming to the Hawkeye State in the next month, and that means the Hawkeye State will be filled with merriment. If there’s one seasonal tradition I look forward to each year, it’s definitely the holiday markets. These festive open-air markets are a great place to find local crafts, unique gifts – and of course, plenty of delicious holiday food and drink! If there’s one Christmas market in Iowa that stands out from the rest, it’s definitely the Christkindlmarket Des Moines. A long-standing Des Moines tradition, it’s returning this year from November 30 to December 3. This market features dozens of vendors selling traditional German and European wares, and it often feels like you’ve been transported to Europe. Come along with us to discover why this holiday market is exactly what’s needed to make your Iowa Christmas complete.

Soon, Des Moines will be getting into the holiday spirit, as the iconic Christkindlmarket comes to town for 2023.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines/Facebook
That name is a mouthful, for sure, but here's all you need to know - it's a free-to-visit Christmas market with everything you could need for the holiday season.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines/Facebook
The decorations are stunning, and walking among the trees is an attraction in its own right.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines/Facebook

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Then there's the food! Many of the vendors are selling authentic German pastries, candy, and other packaged treats that make perfect gifts.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines/Facebook
And, of course, it wouldn't be a visit to the market if you didn't indulge in some of the seasonal food and drinks! It's easy to get carried away with the delicious pastries and mulled wine.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines/Facebook
You'll probably want to explore well into the night - which is good, because when the sun goes down, the event pavilion commonly plays host to live music performances!
Christkindlmarket Des Moines/Facebook

Have you visited the Christkindlmarket in Des Moines before? Tell us what you’re hoping to do, see, and buy at this Christmas market in Iowa in the comments section! You can find out about this year’s hours and vendors on the Christkindlmarket Des Moines website; the Facebook page for this Christmas market in Iowa has all the latest updates. If you don’t find a gift for that traveler in your life there, be sure to check out our own gift guide!

Want to experience more unforgettable Iowa Christmas traditions? Head to Storm Lake to explore Santa’s Castle.

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