Christkindlmarket Des Moines is a German-inspired Christmas market whose goal is to educate and entertain the community by exposing them to European-style foods, products and activities. We have regional vendors sell their hand-crafted wares and European foods from traditional wooden stalls, an entertainment area where polka bands, choirs, and bell ringers can perform, a kid’s area where they can participate in various cultural activities and a beer tent offering European-style beverages.

Culture

Learn about European culture through this 700 year old holiday tradition!

Food

Enjoy bratwurst, candied nuts and authentic German foods.

Kid (and Pet) - Friendly

Visit the KinderKorner where your kids can hear stories, sing songs, and participate in other cultural activities.

Shopping

Select from old-world, artisinal, hand-crafted products representing various European cultures.

Entertainment

Nowhere in our State will you experience such a diverse artistic offering on our entertainment stage.

Glühwein

Christmas markets aren't the same without warm, mulled-wine enjoyed out of a commemorative, keepsake mug!

Schedule of Event:

Yuletide Hall Entertainment

Friday, December 6, 2024

11:30am – 2:30pm: Jager and the Polkameisters is a fun Oktoberfest themed polka band. There’s fun music along with lots of toasts and laughs. It’s a touch of Munich right here in Des Moines!

4pm – 5:30pm: Betrunken Messing is a local Des Moines low brass ensemble specializing in polkas and polka-ized versions of favorite.

7pm – 10pm: Malek’s Fishermen Band is an old time dance band that has been playing since 1932; started playing barn dances and moved on to the main ballrooms and dance halls. Now they play festivals and parties around the midwest. They love playing at the Christkindlemarket, what a fun Crowd!

Strolling around the market:

Friday 6:30pm – 7:15pm

Date: December 5 - 8, 2024