If Wundernacht is any indication, this year’s Carmel Christkindlmarkt will be wunderbar. It is so authentic that Acting CEO Julia Davis (above right) told The Reporter many German families come to the market each year to get a taste of home. (Reporter photos)
Posted By: The Reporter November 21, 2025
Carmel Christkindlmarkt opens to the public Saturday, Nov. 22 at 10 Carter Green, Carmel, but on Wednesday, Nov. 19, Wundernacht was a 21-and-older evening full of samples and previews of everything the exceptionally authentic German market has to offer.
The Hamilton County Reporter took a tour guided by Julia Davis, acting CEO of Carmel Christkindlmarkt Inc., highlighting this season’s vendors, food, and beverages. According to Davis, the thing that sets Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt apart is the focus on an authentic experience. All of the gifts for sale are handcrafted German items. You will not find anything at this market that is made in China.
The food, which we all know is a huge draw, is also as authentic as possible. This newspaper suggests going hungry, bringing along a bit of patience for standing in line, and accepting the fact that you may weigh more when you leave than you did when you arrived.
Don’t miss the Kinderplatz just to the east of the Payne & Mencias Palladium. This area offers a variety of activities for the young and young at heart.
Carmel Christkindlmarkt is the perfect place to get even an old Scrooge into the holiday spirit, shop for unique gifts, and – depending on when the snow starts to blow – get family photos worthy of being placed on Christmas cards for years to come.
The market is open Wednesday through Sunday starting on Saturday, Nov. 22 and running through Christmas Eve.
Learn more at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com.
Reporter photos
