Christkindl Markets in Wisconsin to Check Out This Season

In recent years, this tradition that began in Nüremberg, Germany has been exported to Wisconsin, including in the Milwaukee area. This means you don’t have to leave Wisconsin to step into a storybook scene that’s common in Europe this time of year. Or, if you’re itching for a day trip, travel to another destination within our state to visit a Christmas market in that community...

Sparta Kristkindl Market

Nov. 29 and Fridays/Saturdays through the end of December | SPARTA

Pick up wreathes to decorate at home and listen to carolers and other live-music acts at this Kriskindlmarkt where there are 33 vendor huts, as well as visits from Santa and horse-drawn carriage rides. Food options are traditional German style, such as brats, baked pretzels and roasted nuts, plus hot mulled wine, of course.

Villa Belleza Christmas Market

NOV. 16-DEC. 22 | PEPIN

Hosted at this Italian-themed winery in Western Wisconsin, the market is held in the winery’s outdoor piazza as well as indoor buildings. With brick sidewalks and Mediterranean-style roofing, the buildings look like they could be in Venice, Rome or Florence. Vendors sell everything from cozy winter apparel to seasonal greenery (such as wreaths). Sip mulled wine in the piazza or pop into the tasting room to try this winery’s wines. Pastries are sold on site, for either gift-giving or enjoying on that day. Santa arrives daily at 1 p.m. during the market...