Indiana turns into a merry paradise with amazing Christmas markets honouring the seasonal mood during the holidays. From quirky local bazaars to traditional German-style Christkindlmarkts, these markets combine festive food, handcrafted goods, and joyful entertainment. Whether your hunt is for unique gifts, seasonal treats, or family customs, Indiana’s Christmas markets will abound in holiday delight. Five of Indiana’s top Christmas markets are highlighted in this guide together with all the necessary information like dates, opening times, activities, parking instructions, surrounding hotels and restaurants. Stow your mittens and scarves; now is the time to discover Indiana’s Christmas markets’ enchantment! At the Koblenz Christmas Markets, find a magical scene.
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Toggle1. Carmel Christkindlmarkt
Inspired by Germany’s well-known Christmas markets, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt is a renowned holiday festival hidden right in Carmel, Indianapolis. Indiana’s appeal of Europe is carried in its award-winning market with its tiny wooden homes, exquisite lighting, and happy atmosphere. Along with authentic German holiday pleasures from drinking Glühwein, or mulled wine, visitors enjoy fresh pretzels and sausage. The ice skating rink of the market offers entertainment for the whole family against cheerful music and décor. Among the unique objects including seasonal décor, hand-blown glass ornaments, and traditional woodwork crafts are seasonal décor and hand-blown glass ornaments. While programs and seminars for youngsters ensure pleasure for all ages, live choir and musical performance create a happy surroundings. Whatever form of your holiday celebration—simple enjoyment or gift shopping—the Carmel Christkindlmarkt guarantees a wonderful experience.
- Address: 10 Carter Green, Carmel, IN 46032
- Dates: November 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025
- Opening Times: Wed-Thu: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Fri-Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Visit Carmel Christkindlmarkt for special event details.
Nearest T Stations:
- Carmel Transit Center
- Monon Boulevard
Events:
- Ice Skating Rink: Enjoy skating on a picturesque rink in the heart of the market.
- Live Music Performances: Daily festive concerts by local bands and choirs.
- St. Nicholas Visits: A treat for children with photo opportunities.
- Crafting Workshops: Learn to create your own Christmas ornaments.
- Lighting Ceremony: A grand event to kick off the festive season.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Glühwein Hut: Authentic German mulled wine in collectible mugs.
- Bratwurst Stand: Serving traditional German sausages and pretzels.
- Käthe Wohlfahrt Stall: Handmade Christmas ornaments and decor.
Special Spots:
- Santa’s Village: A cozy area with photo ops and festive decor.
- Market Gazebo: The centerpiece of the market with nightly light displays.
- Handcrafted Gift Stalls: Unique artisan gifts perfect for the holidays.
- Carriage Ride Station: Scenic horse-drawn carriage rides through Carmel.
- Children’s Area: Interactive games and activities for kids.
Parking:
- Address: Carmel City Center Garage, Veterans Way, Carmel, IN
- Fee: Free for market visitors
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel Carmichael
- Residence Inn by Marriott Carmel
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Indianapolis Carmel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Matt the Miller’s Tavern (American cuisine)
- Bazbeaux Pizza (Local favorite)
- Sun King Brewery (Craft beer and bites)
2. Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt
Deeply ingrained in custom, the Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt in southern Indiana presents a unique mix of joy and legacy. Tucked in the small hamlet of Ferdinand, this market features more than 200 booths across six sites, each displaying distinctive goods, artisan creations, and festive cuisine. Being deeply ingrained in German culture, the market clings to local customs. Along with true German cuisine, visitors can view carollers and handicraft exhibits ranging in woodwork to pottery. Highlights include the live nativity scene and the exquisitely adorned Monastery Immaculate Conception, which provides a serene setting for the festive fervour. Little ones’ works in the children’s craft area will appeal to families since they will enable them to make their own Christmas souvenirs. Apart from a market, the Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt is an entire cultural contact bursting with energy and appeal.
- Address: 812 E 10th St, Ferdinand, IN 47532
- Dates: November 16, 2025 – November 17, 2025
- Opening Times: Sat: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sun: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Visit Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt for vendor details.
Nearest T Stations:
- Jasper Public Transit
- Huntingburg Train Station
Events:
- Live Nativity Scene: A reenactment of the Christmas story.
- Wine Tasting: Local wineries showcase festive flavors.
- Strolling Carolers: Traditional Christmas carols performed throughout the market.
- Artisan Demonstrations: Live showcases of woodworking and pottery.
- Christmas Parade: Featuring floats and holiday characters.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Christmas Cookie Booth: Freshly baked holiday treats.
- Handwoven Textiles Stall: Unique handmade scarves and throws.
- Vintage Christmas Decor: Antique ornaments and collectibles.
Special Spots:
- Monastery Immaculate Conception: Beautifully decorated for the season.
- Market Entrance Arch: A perfect photo spot with festive lights.
- Vendor Halls: Spread across six locations, each with unique offerings.
- Holiday Train Exhibit: Miniature trains set in a Christmas-themed display.
- Children’s Craft Area: Fun, interactive crafting stations for kids.
Parking:
- Address: Free parking available at Ferdinand Community Center
- Fee: Free
Nearby Hotels:
- Comfort Inn Ferdinand
- Quality Inn & Suites Jasper
- Hampton Inn Jasper
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Schnitzelbank (German cuisine)
- Los Bravos Mexican Restaurant
- Mama T’s Italian Kitchen
3. Fort Wayne Christkindlmarkt
Tucked up among the busy city of Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Christmas treasure The Fort Wayne Christkindlmarkt is Located in the beautiful Headwaters Park, this market becomes a joyful refuge with classic German-inspired appeal. The air smells roasted almonds, bratwurst, and mulled wine from the moment you walk in creates the perfect surroundings. Families find events at Santa’s Workshop, live music, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Furthermore unusual purchasing opportunities at the market are those of handcrafted decorations, candles, and other seasonal items from sellers. Highlights include for tree lighting rituals, ice carving demonstrations, and under-star Christmas movie screenings. Making lifelong Christmas memories is best done in the Fort Wayne Christkindlmarkt, with its beautiful backdrop adjacent to the St. Marys River.
- Address: Headwaters Park, 333 S Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
- Dates: November 22, 2025 – December 22, 2025 (Weekends Only)
- Opening Times: Fri: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Special activities can be booked via Fort Wayne Christkindlmarkt.
Nearest T Stations:
- Citilink Bus Station – Central Station
- North Clinton Street Stop
Events:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: A spectacular event marking the market’s opening.
- Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides: Experience Fort Wayne’s scenic beauty.
- German Choir Performances: Traditional Christmas songs fill the air.
- Holiday Movie Screenings: Classic Christmas films played outdoors.
- Hot Cocoa Bar: Create your custom festive drink with toppings galore.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Schmidt’s Pretzel Stand: Famous for warm, soft pretzels.
- Holiday Candle Shop: Hand-poured candles in festive scents.
- Local Artisan Stall: Unique handcrafted jewelry and ornaments.
Special Spots:
- Ice Carving Displays: Stunning sculptures crafted live.
- Riverfront Walkway: Lit with twinkling holiday lights.
- Festive Photo Booth: Capture memories in a themed backdrop.
- Interactive Snow Globe: Step inside for a magical holiday experience.
- Santa’s Workshop: Meet Santa and his elves.
Parking:
- Address: North River Parking Lot, 209 E Columbia St, Fort Wayne, IN
- Fee: $5 per vehicle
Nearby Hotels:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Wayne Downtown
- Courtyard by Marriott Fort Wayne
- Hilton Fort Wayne at the Grand Wayne Center
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Hoppy Gnome (Craft beer and creative dishes)
- Tolon (Farm-to-table cuisine)
- Junk Ditch Brewing Company (Brewery and restaurant)
4. Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy Market
Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy Market combines the charm of an Amish town with the magic of Christmas. Known for its dazzling mile-long drive-thru light display, this market offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. Visitors can stroll through festive market stalls filled with handcrafted Amish goods, such as quilts, wooden toys, and artisanal cheeses. Along with special attractions such live Amish choral performances, horse-drawn buggy rides, and cookie decorating seminars, the market boasts While Christmas Tree Lane dazzles with exquisitely adorned trees, the Blue Gate Theatre accentuates the appeal with holiday-themed musicals and presentations. Couples as well as families will like the festive, cosy environment that emphasises the rich history of the town. Traditionally, creatively, and with community spirit, Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy Market is a lovely Christmas destination.
- Address: 345 S Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565
- Dates: November 17, 2025 – December 30, 2025
- Opening Times: Mon-Sun: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: $15 per vehicle for Lights of Joy; market entry is free
- Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets for Lights of Joy available at Shipshewana Lights.
Nearest T Stations:
- Elkhart Train Station
- Goshen Transit Center
Events:
- Lights of Joy Drive-Thru: A dazzling mile-long light display.
- Holiday Craft Fair: Local vendors showcasing unique gifts.
- Amish Choir Performances: Traditional carols sung in harmony.
- Horse-Drawn Buggy Rides: Tour the festive town in classic Amish style.
- Christmas Cookie Decorating: Fun for kids and adults alike.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Amish Quilt Shop: Beautiful handmade quilts.
- Cheese and Fudge Stall: Local artisanal treats to savor.
- Woodworking Booth: Amish-crafted furniture and toys.
Special Spots:
- Blue Gate Theatre: Holiday-themed musical performances.
- Christmas Tree Lane: A stunning display of decorated trees.
- Shipshewana Flea Market: Seasonal stalls with unique finds.
- Downtown Carriage Rides: Scenic views of the lit-up town.
- Holiday Photo Stop: A lighted backdrop perfect for pictures.
Parking:
- Address: Downtown Parking Lots
- Fee: Free for market visitors
Nearby Hotels:
- Blue Gate Garden Inn
- Farmstead Inn & Conference Center
- Der Ruhe Blatz Motel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Blue Gate Restaurant (Famous Amish cuisine)
- JoJo’s Pretzels (Freshly baked pretzels)
- Rise’n Roll Bakery (Cinnamon caramel donuts)
5. Chesterton European Market Holiday Edition
The Chesterton European Market Holiday Edition presents a great fusion of regional appeal with European holiday customs. Set in downtown Chesterton, this market turns the town into a Christmas wonderland every Saturday in December. From holiday baked delicacies to festive jewellery, visitors can peruse a large range of handcrafted items on several artist stands. Highlights include workshops in wreath-making, live Christmas caroll concerts, and the chance to see live reindeer. From the community Christmas tree and seasonal light displays, family photos find the perfect backdrop and further contribute to creating a festive holiday atmosphere. On the market, foodies will discover a wealth of European-inspired delicacies ranging from gourmet chocolates to pastries to mulled cider and Anyone wanting to start the festive season should most definitely visit the Chesterton European Market for its welcoming surroundings and uncommon buying options.
- Address: 220 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304
- Dates: December 2, 2025 – December 23, 2025 (Saturdays Only)
- Opening Times: Sat: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Visit Chesterton European Market.
Nearest T Stations:
- Dune Park South Shore Train Station
- Valparaiso Transit Center
Events:
- Christmas Carol Performances: Local choirs bring festive cheer.
- Hot Cocoa Crawl: Sample different hot chocolates from vendors.
- Holiday Wreath Making: A hands-on crafting workshop.
- Pop-Up Art Gallery: Local artists display holiday-themed works.
- Live Reindeer Visit: Meet Santa’s helpers up close.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- European Bakery Booth: Traditional cookies and pastries.
- Holiday Jewelry Stall: Handcrafted seasonal accessories.
- Artisan Leatherworks: Unique leather goods.
Special Spots:
- Downtown Light Displays: A walk through Chesterton’s illuminated streets.
- Craft Beer Tent: Sample local brews with a holiday twist.
- Artisan Alley: Rows of unique handmade items.
- Community Christmas Tree: A towering tree at the heart of the market.
- Santa’s Post Office: Send letters to the North Pole.
Parking:
- Address: Downtown Chesterton Parking Lot
- Fee: Free
Nearby Hotels:
- Hilton Garden Inn Chesterton
- SpringHouse Inn
- Best Western Indian Oak
Nearby Restaurants:
- Lucrezia Café (Italian-inspired cuisine)
- Octave Grill (Gourmet burgers)
- Third Coast Spice Café (Seasonal comfort food)