The 9th annual European Christmas Market is set to arrive at Union Depot and run for four three-day weekends, beginning November 25, 2022. A popular component of the annual Hub for the Holidays event series at Union Depot, the market retains traditions from old-world Christmas markets. It serves as the only authentic outdoor experience of its kind in Minnesota, as well as the only holiday market that’s open four weekends in a row.
This year’s European Christmas Market will be bigger than ever in both space and number of vendors. An expanded boardwalk will host holiday shopping and dining options in the Christmas-themed village. There will be 50% more vendors this year than in 2021, with 60 setting up shop. Last year’s event attracted more than 95,000 visitors to the market, so the expanded market area will create a very comfortable experience for attendees.
The European Christmas Market offers an excellent gift shopping opportunity for visitors. From Scandinavian-inspired, handcrafted goods to Polish glass ornaments, there will be a wide selection of products for sale from vendors. Notable product offerings include ice lantern making kits, wool items, children’s handmade toys and plushies, local beeswax candles, and much more. European-inspired food and delicacies will also be a part of the European Christmas Market, including authentic German Potato Pancakes and Polish Poppy Seed Rolls.
Some of the market’s unique vendors include:
- Children's craft activities with Coloring Your Own, DoodleTown Toys, and Gingerbread Village
- Handcrafted bags from Nazneen’s Pursenality
- Traditional Austrian Apfelstrudel from FoodSmith Bistro Pub and Raclette Baguettes
Live entertainment will add to the magical holiday ambiance as music, carolers, dancers, and choir ensembles are set to perform throughout each of the four weekends. Keep an eye out for Santa, who will be making a guest appearance with his reindeer. Families are invited to enjoy the dazzling holiday lights on display, greet a group of sled dogs, and participate in activities designated for children. The Minnesota Krampus, an eclectic set of Austrian folklore creatures, will also be in attendance on December 9 and 16 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For many, visiting the European Christmas Market each year is an honored tradition. The event’s commemorative mugs, which will be available for purchase, have become popular collector’s items. They are perfect for sipping Glühwein—a seasonal, mulled wine that’s always a hit among market visitors. Non-alcoholic Glühwein will also be available for purchase.
The European Christmas Market is free to visit, with a VIP ticket option available for purchase for groups. The VIP Experience is the perfect option for hosting your company’s holiday party at the market on a Friday night.
Nadine Schaefer, European Christmas Market Executive Director, is excited to welcome all members of the community to the market. According to Schaefer, “It’s a magical atmosphere. Every year, people from all walks of life visit to celebrate the season. The communal ambiance is what makes the market special.”
It’s sure to be a festive and memorable holiday season at Union Depot. Those who are interested in attending the European Christmas Market are encouraged to visit stpaulchristmasmarket.org to learn more about the event. For more information about all Hub for the Holidays events at Union Depot, visit uniondepot.org/holiday.
Metro Transit is offering free rides to Union Depot during Hub for the Holidays. Go green and download your free pass at uniondepot.org/holiday.
2022 European Christmas Market Schedule
1st Weekend: November 25 - 27
2nd Weekend: December 2 - 4
3rd Weekend: December 9 - 11
4th Weekend: December 16 - 18
Fridays: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sundays: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thank you Molly Mulvehill Steinke - Nemer-Fieger