There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season in Cincinnati than a trip to the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. Set along the riverfront at Smale Riverfront Park, right beside the Moerlein Lager House, this German-inspired market brings European holiday traditions to the heart of downtown. From handmade ornaments to steaming cups of cocoa, it’s a festive experience for everyone — families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to soak up the season.
📍 When & Where
-
Dates: November 22 – December 28
-
Location: Smale Riverfront Park, 115 Joe Nuxhall Way
-
Hours:
-
Thursdays: 5 PM – 9 PM
-
Fridays: 5 PM – 10 PM
-
Saturdays: 12 PM – 10 PM
-
Sundays: 12 PM – 7 PM
-
🛍️ What to Expect
The Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt is designed to mirror the charm of traditional European holiday markets — cozy wooden huts, twinkling string lights, and the smell of roasted nuts and cinnamon in the air.
Dozens of local and regional vendors fill the market each year, offering handcrafted gifts, artisan foods, and festive drinks. The lineup changes annually, but here’s a taste of what visitors have found in past seasons:
-
Avril-Bleh Wursthaus serving authentic German sausages and pretzel rolls
-
Servatii’s Konditorei & Bakery with classic strudels and pastries
-
Aglamesis Bro’s Chocolates for nostalgic holiday sweets and gift boxes
-
Der Funnel Kuchen Stand frying up crispy funnel cakes and sugar-dusted treats
-
Raclette & Cheese Haus melting Swiss cheese over crusty bread and ham slices
-
German Heritage Imports with nutcrackers, ornaments, and handmade cuckoo clocks
-
Local artisans and crafters selling candles, jewelry, and home décor
Each booth is styled like a traditional wooden chalet — complete with heaters, festive lights, and cozy décor — creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere even on chilly nights.
❄️ Food, Drinks & Festivities
Beyond the shopping, the Christkindlmarkt features plenty of ways to enjoy the evening:
-
Grab a hot chocolate, cider, or traditional glühwein (mulled wine) while you explore.
-
Stop by the Moerlein Lager House for a hearty meal or a local craft beer right next door.
-
Rent a heated igloo on the boardwalk for a fun group hangout spot.
-
Enjoy live music, carolers, and local performances that rotate throughout the season.
The mix of Cincinnati flavor and European holiday flair makes the market feel both global and homegrown.
🎁 A Holiday Tradition for Everyone
Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, grabbing dinner with friends, or just looking to feel festive under the city lights, the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt offers a little something for everyone. The atmosphere is lively but laid-back — perfect for families, groups, or anyone who loves the sound of Christmas music and the smell of roasted almonds in the air.
With the skyline and Ohio River as its backdrop, this market has quickly become one of Cincinnati’s most beloved winter traditions — a place to celebrate the season, support local makers, and create memories that feel straight out of a snow-globe scene.