Chicago lights Christmas tree as Christkindlmarket returns to Daley Plaza

COOK COUNTY - Chicago is celebrating the start of the holiday season with a jam-packed weekend of festive events, including the reopening of the Christkindlmarket and the city’s official tree lighting ceremony.

Thousands of spectators gathered in Millennium Park on Friday evening to see Chicago’s 111th Christmas tree come to life.

This year, it's a 53-foot Colorado Blue Spruce donated by the Holden-Shaddick family of Logan Square, and its moment in the spotlight did not disappoint—drawing massive crowds.

Meanwhile, the Christkindlmarket—a cherished tradition—is back for the season, offering locals and visitors, alike, the chance to celebrate the holidays with German-inspired fare.

The market, which opened to the public on Friday, is operating at two locations: Daley Plaza in Chicago and River Edge Park in Aurora.

Fans of it will be thrilled to see the return of the iconic boot-shaped mug, available for the first time since 2019, along with two other collectible mugs.

The market also features traditional mulled wine, German beer, and hearty eats like pretzels, pierogis, and raclette sandwiches.

"This is a Chicago tradition that just won’t quit," said Tom Schmidt, a visitor to the market. "We were born and raised in Chicago, and we do this every year, even though now we're retired living in Arizona, we came back."

"It's the warmth of Christmas, I mean, looking at all the ornaments here and the nativity scenes," said Barbara Gibson-Schmidt, Tom’s wife.

Since its debut in 1996, the charming German market has been a staple of Chicago’s holiday season, drawing crowds with its festive atmosphere, handmade goods, and ornaments from more than 50 vendors.

This year introduces the "Culture and Cheer" tour, which gives attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the market while highlighting German traditions.

"I’m from Germany originally, so I always like to say it’s like a piece of home here in the heart of the city," said Leila Schmidt, senior manager, German American Events, LLC.

Leila Schmidt (no relation to Tom and Barbara Schmidt) noted the event’s cultural significance.

"Handmade products from all around the world, not just Germany, so Ecuador, Peru, Canada, you name it. It’s an international, intercultural atmosphere here," she said.

The Christkindlmarket is open until December 24.

The festive weekend is only just getting started!

On Saturday, Michigan Avenue will shine bright with the return of the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.

Festival Lane will feature activities for the whole family from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Pioneer Court, followed by the parade, which is set to step off at 5:30 p.m.

Pedestrian and vehicle traffic is expected to impact the area for the better part of the day.

For more details on the city’s weekend happenings, click HERE.