Although a Christmas Market (known as a Christkindl) emerged in Germany, it’s one of many traditions from that country that have found a home in the U.S. Such markets all over the world are thriving. And believe it or not, as of data compiled last month by Insureandgo.com, the Seattle Christmas Market is actually the top trending one in the world! Data shows that online searches for Seattle’s market had a 650 percent increase since 2022. (This might have something to do with 2022 being the first year of the market.) It’s organized this year by the same folks who have done the same market in Vancouver in past years.
Seattle’s market began November 24 and runs through December 24. It’s an outdoor event with vendors from 60 artisan shops selling German toys and other handcrafted gifts. There are also traditional foods, live entertainment and the Nordstrom Very Merry Go Round. Santa’s out in full force at this event, with magical breakfasts, letter writing to him, and, of course, photo ops.
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Glühwein—the wonderful mulled wine traditional at German markets—is for sale, as well as a selection of German beers, and you can sip as you engage in a market-wise scavenger hunt. You can also get roasted chestnuts (on the open fire? It remains to be seen). You can also have fun running into the market mascots, Holly and Jolly, a pair of Gingerbread people—maybe you’ll find them kissing in the Lover's Lane light installation.
More than anything, the market is a way to truly feel the Christmas spirit. #2 on the list of increased Google searching since last year is Belgrade’s Christmas Market in Serbia, with a 387 percent boost and Tallinn’s in Estonia with a a 236 percent increase. Other U.S. destinations on the list include Arlington, TX (#6 on the list with 127 percent increase), with its sister city Königshofen, Germany, inspiring the market, which has been happening since 2011, and Boston, MA (#13 on the list with 90 percent increase).
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