If you’re dreaming of visiting a traditional European Christmas market without booking a flight to Europe, then the German Christmas Market in Denver, Colorado is the place to be this winter. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, the Denver Christkindlmarket is filled with twinkling lights, mugs of Glühwein, festive music, and hearty comfort foods, right in the heart of the Mile-High City. Whether you’re planning a festive night out or looking for a European-style holiday outing close to home, the 2025 German Christmas Market in Denver, Colorado promises an unforgettable winter celebration.
The 2025 market brings exciting changes and new additions, including a new location at the Auraria Campus’ Tivoli Quad, hands-on glassmaking workshops with Mack Glass, and a beautifully restored Western Carousel featuring hand-carved horses. See our tips for visiting the market for more details.
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New Location vs. Old Location: What’s Different for the German Christmas Market Denver in 2025?
For 2025, the German Christmas Market moves from its longtime home at Civic Center Park to the Auraria Campus Tivoli Quad due to construction. There are a few noticeable differences for visitors.
Auraria Campus (Tivoli Quad) – 2025 Location
- More open space for vendor stalls and seating, and new attractions like the Western Carousel.
- Easier access to parking, with multiple campus lots and garages close by (though parking is more expensive).
- Public transport convenience, with four light rail stations just a short walk away.
- Walkable environment, with smoother crowd flow and wider walkways.
Civic Center Park – Previous Location
- A classic Denver landmark with an historic, central urban park setting.
- Holiday lights at the Civic Center added built-in ambiance.
- More directly adjacent to the Golden Triangle museums and government buildings.
Overall Visitor Experience
The new Tivoli Quad location brings fresh energy, more space, and better logistics. It is ideal for families and for accommodating new features like workshops and the carousel. While it lacks some of the historic park charm of Civic Center Park, most visitors will appreciate the improved comfort, accessibility, and layout—particularly during busy evenings.
Top Things to Do at the German Christmas Market Denver
1. Sip Hot Glühwein & Holiday Drinks
Each year, the Christkindlmarket has a commemorative mug, which makes a great souvenir. Use these to enjoy a glass of hot cocoa, classic mulled wine, cider, or non-alcoholic drinks. Bavarian-style beer is also a popular option at the market.
For the market’s 25th anniversary celebration in 2025, visitors can enjoy an Englert’s Apfel Spritz, a tribute to the original Denver German Christmas Market organizer, Jack Englert.
2. Feast on Authentic German Comfort Foods
The Denver Christkindlmarkt features not just traditional German and Bavarian comfort foods, but other European specialties as well. Some traditional favorites include bratwurst, Döner kebabs, schnitzel, Spätzle, giant pretzels (Bretzeln), soups, Pierogies, roasted nuts, strudel, and more. It’s easy to make a lunch or dinner out of the food stalls, though there are plenty of excellent dinner options nearby.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to eat at the German Christmas Market, consider reserving your table in the Festival Hall in advance. Tables seat 6-8, and can be booked for a 2 hour time window.
3. Shop German & Local Artisan Gifts
Don’t miss the chance to shop for hand-carved ornaments, wooden toys, winter accessories (hats, mittens, and more), European sweets, candles, soaps, travel posters, and small-batch holiday crafts.
The cheese, Colorado honey, chocolate stalls, and House of Stewart (with Scottish shortbread) are great gift options as well!
Support local and artisan vendors at one of the best places in Denver to find unique stocking stuffers.
4. Try a Glassmaking Workshop with Mack Glass (New for 2025)
New for 2025, Mack Glass is hosting hands-on glassmaking workshops at the Denver Christkindlmarket from November 21 through December 23. Sign up in advance for one of the 20–30 minute introductory sessions, which give visitors the chance to create their own glass pendant necklace or Christmas ornament, perfect for a souvenir or handmade gift. Mack Glass also sells completed ornaments and decorations at their stall (made by their professionals).
Pro Tip: Spots fill up quickly, so plan to reserve your spot in advance. If you haven’t signed up in advance, check for availability when you arrive.
5. Ride the Western Carousel (New for 2025)
A charming new addition for 2025 is the Western Carousel, a fully restored 42-foot Herschell Carousel. The beautifully hand-carved wooden horses and intricate detailing create a wonderful and nostalgic family-friendly activity.
Pro Tip: In the fields surrounding the carousel, there are a number of oversized board games, such as Jenga and Connect-4. These were a big hit with younger children during our most recent visit.
6. Listen to Live Holiday Music, Cultural Performances!
The entertainment lineup features German folk music, choirs, bands, a DJ, and kid-friendly story-telling and performances. Check the entertainment calendar to see what’s on for your visit.
In addition to St. Nikolaus and the Christkind, keep an eye out for Krampus—the iconic Alpine folklore figure. He often makes appearances, adding a playful twist to the festivities. This makes a fun photo opportunity, though some kids may find Krampus spooky.
7. Enjoy a European-Style Night Out in Denver
With warm lights, cozy vendor chalets, the heated festival hall, festive entertainment, and the scent of roasted nuts, the market offers a perfect winter date night or family outing.
How does the market compare to the traditional German Christmas markets such as those in Munich and Frankfurt? The stalls, Glühwein, traditional foods, and ornaments are reminiscent of these markets. The traditional German markets are typically held in the Altstadt (old town), with historic buildings, architecture, and ambience surrounding them.
8. Visit the Mile High Tree (New Location for 2025)
The beloved Mile High Tree is one of Denver’s most iconic holiday displays. While it isn’t part of the Denver Christkindlmarkt, you’ll find it right next door, also in the Tivoli Quad this year. Step inside the massive, immersive LED tree for synchronized light-and-music shows that play throughout the evening.
Tips for Visiting the German Christmas Market Denver Colorado
While the German Christmas Market Denver is normally held in Civic Center Park, it's moved to a temporary location for 2025 due to construction. This walkable location on the Auroria Campus sits near downtown Denver, with easy access to public transit, parking, and nearby restaurants.
| 2025 Dates | November 21 - December 23, 2025 |
| 2025 Hours | Monday–Thursday: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM Friday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM December 15–23: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Are Pets Allowed? | Pets are allowed, though they are discouraged during busy times (e.g., weekends and holidays) due to the crowds. |
How to Get to the German Christmas Market in Denver
The 2025 Denver Christkindlmarkt is located on the Tivoli Quad on the Auroria Campus. The best way to get there is via public transport.
| Temporary 2025 Location | Tivoli Quad – Auraria Campus 1000 Larimer St, Denver, CO |
| By Public Transit | RTD Light Rail – has 4 stops that are a short walk from the Tivoli Quad, including Ball Arena/Elitch Gardens, Auraria West Campus, Union Station, and Colfax at Auraria (the closest, just a 9 min walk) RTD Buses – #43 and #9 buses stop just a short walk from the Tivoli Quad. |
| By Car | Paid parking is available in several Auraria Campus lots and nearby garages. Get the lowest prices by parking before 5 pm Monday-Thursdays. See the latest parking information here. |
| By Rideshare or Bike | Downtown Denver has plenty of rideshare options, as well as bike lanes and parking. |
Where to Eat Dinner Near Denver's German Christmas Market
If you want to extend your evening beyond the food stalls, here are great restaurants within an easy walk:
| Rhein Haus Denver | A Bavarian beer hall with sausages, pretzels, and German favorites—perfect for continuing the festive theme. |
| Rioja | An award-winning Mediterranean-inspired restaurant on Larimer Square. Ideal for a special holiday dinner. |
| Ocean Prime – Larimer Square | Upscale steaks and seafood in an elegant setting. Great for a refined night out before or after visiting the market. |
These options are all located walking distance from the Auraria Campus and the Tivoli Quad.
Where to Stay When Visiting the Market
If you’re turning your visit into a Denver holiday getaway, these hotels offer easy access and plenty of winter charm:
| SpringHill Suites Denver Downtown | Located right on the Auraria Campus—one of the closest hotels to the 2025 market location. |
| The Oxford Hotel | A historic boutique hotel near Union Station, offering classic Denver charm and elegant holiday décor. |
| Brown Palace Hotel | A Denver icon since 1892, this luxurious retreat is known for its stunning seasonal décor and its famous Holiday Afternoon Tea held in the soaring atrium. It’s a short rideshare or light-rail hop from the Auraria Campus and one of the best places in the city to soak up Christmas elegance. |
Final Thoughts on the German Christmas Market in Denver, Colorado
With its move to the Auraria Campus for 2025, the German Christmas Market in Denver, Colorado offers a festive new setting while preserving all the beloved traditions. Visitors can enjoy Glühwein, artisan gifts, hearty German dishes, live entertainment, and that unmistakable old-world Christmas charm. Whether you’re a Denver local or planning a December holiday trip to Colorado, this market is one of the city’s most magical holiday experiences. After visiting the Christmas market, don't miss a side trip to see Denver Botanic's Holiday Light displays.
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- A Local’s Guide: 12 Unique Things to Do in Colorado
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Thanks so much for the update on the changes this year! Super helpful for planning my trip.
Thank you for the feedback!
I lived in Germany for 6 years, and love how well this market does with the German ambiance, they have similar gifts and food. And, the Krampus is a great addition! Love it— what a great place enjoy Christmas in Denver!
It is a great place to enjoy Christmas in Denver!
Hello! Great to see that we can find out such colorful Christmas fairs in the USA as well as in Europe. To my mind, it is one of the most enjoyable activities to visit such a place and spend time there on the Christmas eve!
The Christmas Markets are a wonderful way to enjoy the holidays, as you mention.
I didn’t know they had such a fantastic Christmas market in Denver! You had me from the start with the cute cup and hot cocoa 🙂 I bet the workshops to create your own glass ornament are super popular; I wonder how hard it actually is. Thanks for sharing!
I’m hoping to try the glass making on our next visit. Will follow up with an update on how hard it is.
The German Christmas Market in Denver looks amazing – wow, they even have Krampus! I didn’t see them at the German Christmas markets I visited in Cologne and Düsseldorf last time.
I haven’t seen Krampus at the German Christmas Markets I’ve visited in recent years either. It is fun to have Krampus in Denver.
Super helpful post with winter plans for Colorado! Love those lights.
The holiday lights definitely add to the experience.
Such a great read — I especially loved learning about the hands-on Mack Glass workshop, which sounds like such a unique way to experience the market beyond the delicious food and drinks. It’s details like this that make the Denver Christmas market feel truly special, and I’d love to experience it in person someday.
The glass workshops are a wonderful addition to the Christmas market experience.
I would love to visit this place. Those glass baubles looks beautiful!
They are beautiful; and amazing to be able to make some glass souvenirs to take home too.
Sounds like festive fun for all. Curious to know why a German Christmas market in Denver? Is there a high population of Germany settlers in this region?
The German American Chamber of Commerce hosts the Christmas market. The organization promotes business and cultural ties to Germany.
I’ve heard that there’s nothing like Christmas in Germany. So, it’s nice to experience a German Christmas without having to make that long flight overseas!
There is nothing like a Christmas market in Germany, but it is nice to have a small taste of this experience without going too far from home (for those who are in the US).
That looks very festive. I could spend a whole day here 🙂
It is a fun and festive experience!
Denver Colorado is a bit too far for me this year, unfortunately, but it looks like a truly great place to spend the Christmas holidays.
Hope you can visit in the future!
I haven’t been to the ones in Germany, but I’ve been to the one in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I would like to visit this one in Denver. I like that they have a glassmaking workshop. But honestly, the Krampus will scare me, too.
The good news is that Krampus is not there every day!
It’s worth a visit just for the glühwein!
Indeed it is!
This sounds like fun — and yummy!
Curiosity: Why is there a Weihnachtsmarkt in Denver?
It’s produced by the German American Chamber of Commerce, and seeks to replicate the spirit of the German Christmas markets in Denver.
Oh wow it looks like a true German Christmas Market! I never would’ve guessed it was in the US from the photos!
That’s great to hear!
I would love to experience the German Christmas Market in Denver. I love to go to these specialty events. I just attended the Christmas Market at the Swedish Embassy in DC. It really puts you in a festive holiday mood!
The market at the Swedish Embassy sounds like fun too!
I didn’t know Denver had a Christmas market! It looks so fun! Which of these is your favorite thing to do there?
Enjoying the traditional warm drinks on a cold day, while shopping for small gifts from local merchants. Looking forward to trying the glass making too.
Man, Krampus would have been so scary as a child. I haven’t been to the market since it moved locations, hopefully crowd flow is better.
The market seems well set up for crowds, with wider pathways, and a logical progression through the stalls. Yes, Krampus could be scary for some kids.
Love this! The lights, the food, the vibe — everything looks magical. Hope I get to visit someday.
Hope you have a chance to visit someday!
As I read this I am currently traveling to Christmas Markets in Germany. And It looks like Denver is just as amazing! Maybe next year.
I just visited a few of Germany’s markets. In bigger cities, such as Munich and Frankfurt, one difference is that the markets sprawl across many city blocks. The vibe is great in both places.
I would’ve never guessed Denver would have a German Christmas market, but it makes sense and looks like such a fun time! I’d love to take a glass making workshop!
The glass making workshop looks like so much fun! Hoping to fit it in before the holiday season is over.
This looks like such a festive and fun experience! I love how the Denver Christkindlmarket brings a real European Christmas vibe without the long flight. The new 2025 location at Auraria Campus sounds like a great upgrade too—more space, easier parking, and that restored Western Carousel sounds adorable. And the glassmaking workshops? Such a unique holiday activity! Definitely adding this market to my winter must-do list.
Thanks for the feedback!
This Christmas market looks great! I would love to join the glassmaking workshop and eat the typical German foods. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for the feedback!
We have always wanted to head to Europe for iconic Christmas markets. I now see we may not need to travel that far for a fun holiday outing. Lots of ways to eat and drink your way around the market. And a good spot for holiday gifts. This certainly would get me in the holiday spirit.
While it’s not quite the same as European markets, it is a great alternative for those in North America looking for something closer to home.
The German Christmas Market sounds magical. I love how you can experience a German Market right in the US. I would be there all day just for the food lol-I’d also love to do the glass making workshop. That would be fun.
The glass making workshop seems like such a great way to make gifts for the holidays too!
The Denver Christkindlmarket looks wonderful — love the mix of German traditions, food, and festive atmosphere. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for the feedback!
This looks fascinating. I love the idea of a mug each year. I would enjoy the food and drink there as well as looking at everything. I have to add this to my list of things to do and places to go.
The food and drink (and other events, shopping) make this such a fun experience!