Every winter, a small Pennsylvania city transforms into something magical. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania — known as “Christmas City USA” — opens its gates to one of the most beloved holiday markets in North America. The Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem returns for its 34th year in 2026. It brings handmade crafts, warm food, live entertainment, and the charm of a traditional German Christmas market to thousands of visitors each season. Whether you are planning your first visit or returning for another year, this guide covers everything you need to know. From parking tips to ticket prices, vendors to food options, you will find all the details right here.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What Is the Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt?
The Christkindlmarkt is a German-inspired holiday market. It takes place at PNC Plaza SteelStacks, located at 645 E. First Street in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The market is organized by ArtsQuest, a local nonprofit arts organization. The event draws inspiration from traditional European Christmas markets. It features handmade goods from artisan vendors, festive food and drink, holiday entertainment, and seasonal decorations. Travel + Leisure has named it one of the top holiday markets in the world. USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice competition and OprahDaily.com have also recognized it as one of the best markets in North America. The market is cashless. Visitors must use debit or credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or ArtsQuest CashCards for admission, food, and beverages. However, some individual artisan vendors may choose to accept cash.
2026 Dates and Hours
The 2026 Christkindlmarkt runs from Friday, November 13 to Sunday, December 20. The market does not open every day of the week. Instead, it follows a specific schedule based on the month. Here is a complete breakdown of open dates and hours:
| Period | Open Days | Hours |
| November (Nov. 13–15, 20–22, 27–29) | Fridays – Sundays | Fri–Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM / Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM |
| December (Dec. 3–6, 10–13, 17–20) | Thursdays – Sundays | Thu–Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM / Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM / Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM |
Therefore, if you plan a weekday visit in early December, Thursdays are your best option. Weekend afternoons tend to be the busiest times. Arriving early on Fridays can help you beat the crowds. Additionally, on Fridays from 5 PM to 8 PM, admission is free for all guests. This offer is courtesy of ArtsQuest and is a great way to explore the market without paying an entry fee.
Tickets and Admission Prices
Tickets are available online in advance or at the gate. Online purchase is recommended, as it may offer a slight discount and helps avoid long lines at busy periods. Here is the full pricing structure for 2026:
| Ticket Type | Thursdays & Fridays | Saturdays & Sundays |
| General Admission | $14 (all-in) | $16.50 (all-in) |
| Children (5 and under) | FREE | FREE |
| ArtsQuest Silver Members & above | FREE | FREE |
| ArtsQuest Bronze Members | $13 (all-in) | $15.50 (all-in) |
Prices shown already include all applicable fees and the City of Bethlehem amusement tax. All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are offered. The Christkindlmarkt is an all-weather event, so it runs rain or shine. 
Special Ticket Packages
Beyond general admission, several bundled packages are available for visitors who want to make the most of their trip:
- Christmas City Combo Ticket: Entry to Christkindlmarkt plus Trees of Historic Bethlehem, priced at $31.50 per person.
- Merry and Bright Package: Includes entry to both Illumination and Christkindlmarkt. It also includes a free hot cocoa at Illumination and a movie pass for SteelStacks. Pricing starts at $24 for November dates and $28 for December. This package is valid on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Christkindlmarkt and Miracle on 34th Street Package: Combine a visit to the market with a performance of Meredith Wilson’s Miracle on 34th Street at the Wind Creek Event Center on December 12–14. This package is priced at $81.55 per person.
Group tickets are not available online or at the gate on the day of arrival. You must contact the ArtsQuest hospitality team in advance for group pricing and arrangements.
Igloo Rentals
One of the most popular special experiences is the private igloo rental. Each igloo is part of the Winter Wonderland area, presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network. Renting one gives you two hours of private access, cozy heated seating with an Amish fireplace, admission for two people, and a gallon box of hot chocolate. Each igloo can host up to six guests. Additional admission tickets must be purchased for any guests beyond the two included. This is a wonderful option for families, couples, or small groups looking for a more intimate setting.
Vendors and Shopping
Shopping is at the heart of the Christkindlmarkt experience. Dozens of artisan vendors set up stalls across the market, offering thousands of unique handmade gifts. You will find items that are difficult to find anywhere else. Here is a look at the types of vendors and goods you can expect:
| Category | Examples of Items |
| Holiday Ornaments | Hand-blown glass, painted wood, ceramic decorations |
| Jewelry | Handcrafted earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets |
| Textiles | Scarves, handwoven blankets, knitted goods |
| Candles and Home Goods | Soy candles, beeswax products, natural soaps |
| Seasonal Crafts | Wreaths, garlands, holiday figurines |
| Specialty Toys | Wooden toys, handmade puzzles, plush items |
One of the most highly anticipated vendors is Käthe Wohlfahrt, the popular German ornament manufacturer. This brand is known for its authentic, high-quality Christmas decorations made in Germany. Its presence at the Bethlehem market makes it a special destination for collectors and gift shoppers alike. Additionally, local artisans from the Lehigh Valley region also participate each year. This means many of the items you purchase directly support small, independent makers.
Events and Entertainment
The Christkindlmarkt is more than just a shopping market. It features a rich lineup of events and entertainment throughout its run.
Live Performances and Music
Holiday music fills the air throughout the market. Live performances take place regularly on the market stage, featuring local choirs, bands, and seasonal musicians. Christmas carols and festive tunes create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages.
Glassblowing Demonstrations
One of the Christkindlmarkt’s most iconic traditions is live glassblowing. Skilled artists shape molten glass into ornaments, sculptures, and decorative pieces right before your eyes. The 2026 event features an expanded space for this demonstration, giving more visitors a clear view of the craft.
Visit with St. Nicholas
Children and families can visit with St. Nicholas during the market. This traditional figure — distinct from the American Santa Claus — appears in period costume and connects visitors to the European roots of the holiday season.
Ice Skating
The market also offers a separate ice skating experience for an additional fee. Sessions must be booked in advance. Skate guides are available for younger or less experienced skaters, though they come at an extra cost.
Outdoor Igloos and Winter Wonderland Area
The Winter Wonderland section offers a relaxed, cozy corner of the market. Beyond the rental igloos, this area features festive lighting and a warm environment for families to rest and recharge.
Food and Drinks
No holiday market visit is complete without great food and drink. The Christkindlmarkt offers a wide selection of seasonal treats, hearty meals, and festive beverages. Food trucks and vendor stalls are spread throughout the market. Here is a taste of what you can expect:
| Food Category | Popular Options |
| Hot Beverages | Hot cocoa, mulled wine, spiced cider |
| Savory Foods | Bratwurst, pretzels, pierogi, potato pancakes |
| Sweet Treats | Strudel, cookies, gingerbread, roasted nuts |
| Snacks | Kettle corn, candy apples, artisan chocolates |
The food selection is ideal for cold-weather snacking. Mulled wine, known in Germany as Glühwein, is one of the most popular drinks at European-style Christmas markets. The Bethlehem version captures that same warmth and spice. Vendors rotate each year, so there is often something new to discover.
Getting There and Parking
The Christkindlmarkt is located at PNC Plaza SteelStacks, 645 E. First Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015. Free public parking is available next to the market and adjacent to the SteelStacks campus. However, parking can fill up quickly on busy weekends. Consider arriving early, especially on Saturdays. Carpooling is a practical option. Additionally, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft drop off near the venue with no parking concerns. For visitors coming from outside the Lehigh Valley, Hotel Bethlehem is a popular lodging choice. It is located within walking distance of the SteelStacks campus and provides a convenient home base for a multi-day visit. 
Tips for First-Time Visitors
A few practical tips can make your visit much smoother:
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time at the gate.
- Dress in warm layers. The market takes place outdoors and temperatures can be quite cold by December.
- Bring a tote bag or reusable shopping bag to carry your purchases comfortably.
- Visit on a Thursday or early Friday to avoid the largest weekend crowds.
- Take advantage of free Friday evening admission from 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Download the ArtsQuest app or check the website for live event schedules closer to your visit date.
- Pets are not allowed at the market, except for trained service dogs.
- Children five and under enter for free, making it a budget-friendly family outing.
Why Bethlehem Is the Perfect Holiday Destination
Bethlehem’s identity as “Christmas City USA” runs deep. The Moravian settlers who founded the city in 1741 gave it a rich spiritual and cultural heritage tied to the Christmas season. The star on South Mountain has overlooked the city for generations. Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites, carriage rides, and festive walking tours all add to the holiday atmosphere beyond the market itself. Therefore, a trip to the Christkindlmarkt is not just a shopping trip. It is a full immersive holiday experience rooted in tradition, community, and authentic craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt 2026 is a truly special event. It runs from November 13 to December 20, opening on Fridays through Sundays in November and Thursdays through Sundays in December. Admission starts at $14 on weekdays and $16.50 on weekends, with children five and under admitted free. The market offers dozens of artisan vendors selling handmade gifts, including the iconic German ornaments of Käthe Wohlfahrt. Visitors can enjoy glassblowing demonstrations, visits with St. Nicholas, live music, ice skating, and cozy igloo rentals. Food and drink options range from bratwurst and pretzels to hot cocoa and mulled wine. Whether you come for the shopping, the food, the entertainment, or simply the holiday atmosphere, the Christkindlmarkt delivers a memorable experience for every visitor. Plan ahead, dress warmly, and give yourself plenty of time to take it all in.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt 2026 open?
The market opens on Friday, November 13, 2026. It runs on Fridays through Sundays in November and Thursdays through Sundays in December, closing on Sunday, December 20, 2026.
How much do tickets cost for the 2026 Christkindlmarkt?
General admission is $14 on Thursdays and Fridays and $16.50 on Saturdays and Sundays. Children five and under are admitted for free. On Fridays from 5 PM to 8 PM, entry is free for all guests.
Where is the Christkindlmarkt located?
The market is held at PNC Plaza SteelStacks, 645 E. First Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Free public parking is available on site.
Is the Christkindlmarkt cancelled due to bad weather?
No. The Christkindlmarkt is an all-weather event and will run regardless of rain, snow, or cold. All sales are final, and no refunds are issued for weather-related reasons.
Can I bring my pet to the Christkindlmarkt?
The market does not allow pets. However, trained service dogs are welcome throughout the event grounds.