Christkindlmarket Chicago is indeed 'the largest and most renowned German winter holiday market in the United States."  For years, it has been the only non-European market to routinely be included in various "World's Best Christmas Markets" lists which showcase the worlds biggest and best Christmas markets.  We often hear from visiting German nationals that they prefer Chicago's market; "It's not as crowded" is the common refrain.

From before Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Eve, over 50 local and international vendors ply their wares from authentic European cabins modeled after the original market in Nuremburg, Germany.  Well over 1,000,000 visitors from around the world flock to Chicago every year to enjoy the activities, performances, shop and savor German food and drink.

Criterion's role in overall planning, site plans and master schedules for the markets help us coordinate the Market operations with the various City departments, facility management and other infrastructure vendors.  In November, we begin installation and roll right into the show operation, keeping things running smoothly.  At the end, we put it all away, coordinating shipping and storage of the market materials. Between markets, we consult on design and construction of new cabins and start the planning all over again!

There are also 2 concurrent sister markets in Wrigleyville and in Aurora.

Criterion has provided these services since 2007.  We are also a proud sponsor of the Christkindlmarket Chicago.