Cincy’s Christkindlmarket offers holiday shopping at the Banks

For those still searching for last-minute holiday gifts, the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt offers a seasonal alternative to crowded malls and online shipping deadlines. The open-air market, which opened in November, continues this month along the city’s riverfront, combining holiday shopping with food and entertainment at Smale Riverfront Park near the Moerlein Lager House. 

Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt features a village-style layout of vendors offering handcrafted gifts, holiday decor and specialty items. Many of the vendors are small businesses and artisans, making the market a convenient stop for shoppers looking for unique, locally made presents. 

In addition to shopping, the market includes a range of seasonal food and beverage options, with warm winter fare and festive drinks available throughout the grounds. A heated festival tent serves as a central gathering space, offering sheltered seating and hosting live music and entertainment on select days. Families visiting the Christkindlmarkt can also take advantage of upcoming events geared toward children. Children’s story times are scheduled on select dates, and visits from Santa are planned as the holiday nears.  

The market’s expanded footprint, which extends toward Carol Ann’s Carousel, helps create a cohesive holiday village atmosphere along the riverfront. The Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt is free to attend and open multiple days each week, with extended hours during peak holiday periods. For more information, visit the market’s website.