Updated November 2026 by Erin Huiatt, Des Moines Parent
Quick answer: Christkindlmarket Des Moines is a free, German-style Christmas market at Principal Park in downtown Des Moines. In 2026 it runs two weekends, Dec. 3–6 and Dec. 10–13, with European food, Glühwein in a keepsake mug, handmade gifts, live entertainment and the KinderKorner for kids. Parking is free in Principal Park Lots 3 and 4.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines has quickly become one of Iowa’s favorite holiday traditions! This bit of European culture, shopping, eating and sipping is back for two full weekends at Principal Park, including its famous kid-centric KinderKorner, where kids can hear stories, sing songs and make handmade treasures.
Before you head to Principal Park, take a few minutes to understand what makes Christkindlmarkets unique, and consider these tips from market veterans.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2026: Dates and Hours
| Date | Hours |
|---|---|
| Thursday, Dec. 3 | 5–9 p.m. |
| Friday, Dec. 4 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. |
| Saturday, Dec. 5 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. |
| Sunday, Dec. 6 | 11 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Thursday, Dec. 10 | 5–9 p.m. |
| Friday, Dec. 11 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. |
| Saturday, Dec. 12 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. |
| Sunday, Dec. 13 | 11 a.m.–5 p.m. |
Where: Principal Park, 1 Line Drive, Des Moines
Cost: Free admission
Parking: Free in Principal Park Lots 3 and 4; accessible parking in Lot 2. Please don’t park in the private Ballyard Apartments lot.
Special Events at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2026
- Naschfest (Thursdays, Dec. 3 and 10, 5–9 p.m.): Food vendors offer sample-size bites at sample prices, perfect for trying a little of everything.
- Opening Ceremony (Friday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m.): Watch the Christkind deliver her festive proclamation and the big tree light up.
- Krampuslauf (Dec. 3 and Dec. 12): The Running of the Krampi, a Krampus parade presented by Hessen Haus. Fair warning: it’s a little spooky for little ones!
- Christkindlmarkettreff (second weekend): Demonstrations and activities at the market “meeting spot,” including a sensory-friendly area on Friday, Dec. 11.
8 Ways to Enjoy Christkindlmarket Des Moines Like a Pro
1. Consider your apparel.
A Christmas market outing calls for layers, hats, gloves and sensible, warm shoes. There are indoor tents, but you’ll spend a lot of your time outdoors.
2. Learn about Glühwein (gloo-vine).
This warm mulled wine will become your best friend, served in a collectible keepsake mug that exudes life-giving warmth and enjoyment.
3. Visit both day and night.
Day and night bring two completely different vibes, each with its own charm. Thanks to short December days, the timing is on your side to do both in one trip.
4. Come hungry.
You’ll want an empty stomach to take full advantage of the European specialties. You may know bratwurst, but do you know the joys of sweet and savory strudel, Danish kringle (kring-la) or authentic lebkuchen (layb-kook-hen)? Visit on a Thursday for Naschfest samples!
5. Queue like a pro.
We Americans are an antsy lot, but market lines often move quicker than they look. Pros know to grab a quick beer or pretzel before queuing in long lines.
6. Make a loop.
It’s always wise to make a first pass through the market to get a real feel for all the vendors. Then go back for that perfect handmade holiday gift no one else in your family will have.
7. Park the baby carriage.
Strollers can be tough to maneuver in tents and tight areas, so consider a carrier for little ones. Bringing the dog? Pets are welcome on a short leash, but leave them home if it’s too cold.
8. Savor the Gemütlichkeit (geh-moot-lick-kite).
This German tongue twister sums up the cozy feeling you’ll have at a traditional Christmas market, and it’s what you’ll remember later. It’s the amazing combination of warmth from the food, the music and, of course, the people.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines FAQ
Christkindlmarket Des Moines runs Dec. 3–6 and Dec. 10–13, 2026, at Principal Park. Thursdays are 5–9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m.–9 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission is free. You pay for food, drinks, mugs and gifts from the vendors.
Free parking is available in Principal Park Lots 3 and 4, with accessible parking in Lot 2.
Yes! The KinderKorner has stories, songs and cultural crafts for kids, and there’s a sensory-friendly area on Friday, Dec. 11.
Yes, pets are welcome on a short leash, but the market recommends leaving them home on very cold days.
Christkindlmarket Des Moines is produced by the Iowa European Cultural Connection. Plan your visit at christkindlmarketdsm.com.
More Holiday Fun from Des Moines Parent
Keep the holiday fun going with more Des Moines holiday markets, Dome for the Holidays, holiday parades in Central Iowa and our full guide to holiday events in Des Moines. And subscribe to DSM Weekly for weekend ideas every Monday morning!