Illinois’ Famous Christmas Market Announces 2026 Dates

Counting Down to Christmas: Christkindlmarket Announces 2026 Season Dates

It might still be August, but that doesn't mean we're not allowed to start talking about Christmas in Illinois.

Christkindlmarket just announced its 2026 dates, and all three locations from last year are returning.

READ MORE: Rockford Named One of the Most Magical Christmas Towns in Illinois

a bunch of ornaments hanging from a ceiling

Three Chicagoland Locations Opening Friday, November 20

Opening on Friday, November 20, Christkindlmarket is free to enter, and you can check them out here:

• Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago
• Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville
• RiverEdge Park in Aurora

A couple of years ago, I checked out Christkindlmarket at Wrigley. It was a memorable trip, as the organizers created a mini ice rink on the legendary field at The Friendly Confines.

We checked out the vendors when we were there too and scored a delicious coffee cake I'm still thinking about to this day.

READ MORE: Why Rockford Families Love This Enchanting Winter Lights Experience

Holiday Market In Chicago Offers Shoppers Seasonal Goods

The Easy Option for Stateline Travelers: Christkindlmarket Aurora

If you're traveling from Rockford to Christkindlmarket, the closest might be the spot in Aurora at RiverEdge Park, and it also doesn't require you to battle Chicago traffic to enjoy the festivities.

This will be the fifth year the market has set up shop in Aurora, with more than 60 vendors across the RiverEdge Park Campus. It will run all the way through Christmas Eve, December 24.

So yeah, I get it, we're barely in back-to-school mode, but we're already shifting gears towards the holidays, and I can't think of a reason why not.