The holiday season doesn’t really begin until the doors of Christkindlmarket Chicago open to the public. Beginning Nov. 15, Daley Plaza transforms into a winter wonderland between Clark and Dearborn Streets (at Washington) to celebrate the season with a traditional German market. Chicago craftsmen sell their wares, including classic European pieces like cuckoo clocks, beer steins, and otherworldly treasures. But Christkindlmarket is equally about the food and includes holiday favorites, savory German specialties, and tempting sweets to enjoy at the market or take home to gift. While you browse, be sure to get a mug of the market’s signature hot spiced wine, Glühwein, to keep you nice and warm.

 If you’re looking for a unique place to meet up with family or friends to eat and shop, Christkindmarket is the place. Plus, there is often nightly entertainment and plenty of other events to enjoy. Take a stroll through Christkindlmarket seven days a week, starting at 11 a.m. daily. The website is your resource for vendor information, the performance schedule, and more.