*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure for more info.
The Germania Christkindlmarkt in Cincinnati, Ohio, is one of the oldest German Christmas Markets in Southwestern Ohio.
It offers German music, holiday activities for the children, plus caroling and carriage rides for all. The authentic German food, Bier and Gluhwein, is plentiful, and the holiday shopping opportunities are endless.
If you are in the area, this is a must-see event!
In this Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about experiencing the wonder of Christmas in Cincinnati for yourself.
NOTE: We last visited this Christmas market in Early November 2016, so take note that some things may be different this year. We’ve tried to keep this guide as up-to-date as possible, but let us know if you spot anything we should change!
When is Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt
2024 Dates: TBA (Previous year’s event: Nov 3 – Nov 5)
Note: Visit The Germania Society of Cincinnati website
Where to Stay for Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt
If you have never been to the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt, we suggest at least a full day of shopping and a little extra for fun. On our last visit, we went to opening night and back again the next day for shopping.
In need of a place to stay? Here are some quick recommendations for hotels near Cincinnati Christkindlmarket:
- Budget: Check prices and availability
- Mid-Range: Check prices and availability
- Luxury: Check prices and availability
Budget: Springhill Suites by Marriott. Springhill is the closest hotel to the Christmas Fair. Unfortunately, it is not within walking distance, but there is a hotel shuttle, and it is also a quick Uber or cab ride there and back. The hotel itself is clean, and the staff is very accomodating.
Mid-Range: Hampton Inn-Cincinnati/Fairfield. This hotel is about a 10-minute drive to the Christkindlmarkt. Although we have never stayed at this particular hotel, Hampton Inn is always our go-to hotel-affordable with all necessities.
Luxury: AC Banks by Marriott. If you are willing to drive a few miles, AC Banks by Marriott is an upscale, trendy hotel in downtown Cincinnati.
Where to Find Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt
Since 1997, the Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt has been held at the Germania Society of Cincinnati, Kemper Park, 3529 W. Kemper Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45251. This is due north of the city, between Cincinnati and Fairfield/Hamilton, OH.
Admission is $5 per person — free admission for those 12 and under and active or retired military with a current military ID.
Parking is FREE. A free shuttle bus services both satellite parking locations: Pleasant Run Middle School, 11700 Pippin Rd, Cincinnati OH, 45251 and Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati OH, 45251.
What to Eat at Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
Christmas is a time to celebrate with family and good food. As you approach Kemper Park’s heated tents at the Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt, the aroma of the market’s tasty fare serves as an instant warm welcome.
There is so much to eat and drink at the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt, so my suggestion is to try a little of everything!
Here are some must-haves:
Dill Pickle Soup
While pickles are not my favorite food, I had to try this soup. It is popular throughout Eastern Europe and was a surprising creamy treat.
Kartoffelpuffer
For a snack or a meal, potato pancakes with applesauce are a must. And they are easy to eat while you browse the booths.
Apfelstrudel
Pronounced just like it sounds, a piece of hot Apple Strudel will satisfy any sweet tooth.
What to Buy at Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt
This Christkindlmarkt has all the toys, hand-crafted ornaments, and beer steins one expects. But these are my favorite things.
Nutcrackers
One can never have too many nutcrackers. These carved authentic German nutcrackers epitomize the Holiday season.
Cuckoo Clocks
My absolute favorite thing to shop for is German clocks. They have always been in my family, and we grew up watching the figurines dance and listening to the chimes.
On our last visit, we found a fantastic bird-themed cuckoo clock as a gift for my mum. The Cincinnati Chistkindkl never disappoints.
Advent Calendars
With memories of my first Advent Calendar still fresh in my mind, I always shop Christmas Fairs for these magical calendars. They are a fun way to count down the Christmas season.
Ours sits right next to the Elf on the Shelf. The Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt is always early enough in the season, and they make perfect Thanksgiving gifts.
Other Things to Do at the Christkindlmarkt
The Christkindl
The Christmas Angel visits on Saturday and Sunday.
Santa Clause
Santa Clause and his team are available each day. You can even have breakfast with him on Saturday morning (reservations required).
But watch out – Krampus also lurks the grounds waiting for the arrival of St. Nikolas!
Children’s Programming
There are also many activities specifically for the children, including caroling, hayrides, a lantern parade, and a petting zoo.
Extra Tips for Visiting Cincinnati’s Christkindlmarkt
If you’re planning to visit Cincinnati, OH, you are in for a treat at Christmas time.
Here are some additional tips to make your trip to the Buckeye state more enjoyable.
Always bring cash
Most vendors welcome credit cards, but some do not.
Dress comfortably
The Cincinnati Christkindl Market is an outdoor park-based event, but heated tents provide shelter and warmth. Dress accordingly!
Bring warm clothes and a coat
Don’t forget – it does snow in Ohio!
Where to Find More Info on Cincinnati Christmas Market
For more information, visit the Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt website.
Looking for more US travel inspiration?
Check out these guides on the best places to visit in…
Help us improve this Cincinnati Christmas Fair Guide!
Do you have a pro tip about Cincinnati Germania Christkindlmarkt? A unique souvenir you loved, or a delicious treat you tried? Let us know in the comments what your insider tips are for the Cincinnati Christmas Market to help improve this guide for all future visitors.