Join the thousands for the 27th Annual Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt...
In Germany, Christmas wares and gifts are sold in the festival-style setting of Christkindlmarkt.
The custom began in the 14th century and continues today in the charming “Bavarian” village of Ferdinand, Indiana, the only town in the world named after Ferdinand I of Austria.
The Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt, held the third full weekend in November annually, features over 200 lavishly decorated booths spilling over with quality hand-created items, antiques, art, Christmas wares, delicious regional food and wine, live entertainment, a free concert, free tours and so much more.
Christkindlmarkt Schedule of Events
Monastery Tours:
Saturday: 10:00 am-11:30 am, 12:30 pm-3:00 pm
Location: Monastery Immaculate Conception
Take a free guided tour of the home to one of the largest communities of Benedictine women! Experience what locals call the "Castle on the Hill."
Ice skating:
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Location: Ferdinand Library South Lot
Free to all adults and children! Skates provided!
Children's crafts:
Saturday: 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm
Live Glockenspiel:
Saturday: 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm
Location: Forest Park High School Auditorium
You don't want to miss this! A cuckoo clock comes to life at the top of the hour!
Reindeer reserve:
11:00 am - 12:00 pm | Reindeer Meet 'n Greet
Location: Ferdinand Library
Santa's elves will bring a reindeer to the library for you to meet, pose with, and even pet! Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Marionette theater
Saturday: 12:15 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm
Location: Forest Park High School Auditorium
Since 1952, the Melchior Marionettes have been performing throughout the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe and Asia. Join 3rd generation of The Melchior Marionettes, Heidi, as she shares her beautifully hand-crafted marionettes once again here at the 2022 Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt. She is excited to mark the 13th year of entertaining visitors and enjoys being a part of this annual tradition.
Santa claus visit:
Saturday: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location: Ferdinand Library Community Room
Be sure to visit Santa and tell him your Christmas wish list! Along with visiting Santa, you can also color and write him a letter to help him remember when he returns to the North Pole!
Evening Concert:
7:00 pm: "Sounds of the Season" Concert
Location: Monastery Immaculate Conception
Talented members of the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus and Youth Orchestra will be performing beautiful, seasonal selections and traditional Christmas carols. There is no admission fee. A freewill offering is encouraged.
Other Entertainment:
10:00 am: Catholic Mass with German Hymns
Location: St. Ferdinand Church
7:00 pm: Lights on the Grotto
Location: Monastery Immaculate Conception
Take a self-guided tour of the beautiful Christmas lights around the "Castle on the Hill."
