The holiday season is still weeks away, but those who are already counting down the days until Christkindlmarket will be happy to know there’s a way to skip the long lines this year.
The German-style Christmas bazaar, which sets up shop in Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville (as well as Aurora) every November, has announced a new weekend fast-entry pass. For $25, you can bypass the large crowds on Saturdays and Sundays and stroll right into the marketplace at Daley Plaza without waiting. Guests must select a 30-minute time slot for entry when purchasing their tickets; admission also includes a complimentary souvenir mug—a beloved collectible that has a different design each year.
Started in 1996, Christkindlmarket is one of the city’s most popular holiday attractions, drawing more than a million visitors annually. Inspired by the classic Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, it features a variety of gift vendors and food stalls selling everything from ornaments and steins to mulled wine and schnitzels.
Christkindlmarket will return for the season on November 17. The Daley Plaza location will be open 11am-8pm Sunday through Thursday and 11am-9pm Friday and Saturday. The Gallagher Way outpost in Wrigleyville will run from November 17 to December 31, with operating hours of 3pm-9pm Monday through Thursday, 11am-10pm Friday and Saturday, and 11am-7pm on Sunday.
Admission on weekdays, and non-express entry on weekends, remains free. Fast-entry passes are on sale now via Eventbrite.