Mohican Christkindlmarkt to bring European Christmas magic to downtown Loudonville

The magic of a traditional European Christmas market is coming to downtown Loudonville this December as the village prepares to host its first Mohican Christkindlmarkt, an outdoor market inspired by centuries-old holiday traditions in Germany, Austria and throughout Europe. The market will be open to the public the first two weekends in December (Dec. 5-6 and Dec. 12-13) from 5-9 p.m.

Originating in the 14th century, Christkindlmarkts began as Advent street fairs in German towns where merchants and artisans gathered to sell handmade gifts, seasonal foods and warm drinks. Loudonville’s own market will capture that same charm with wooden vendor cabins, glowing string lights, fire pits and the scent of evergreens filling the air along North and South Water streets in the heart of downtown.

The event is quickly coming together, thanks to a community effort. Cabins are being built by the construction technologies students at the Heartland Technical Education Center, Boy Scouts and other volunteers. Several local businesses and foundations also have contributed to making the market a reality.

Visitors can look forward to a mix of food trucks, fresh-cut Christmas trees, baked goods, local treats, handmade gifts, imported German décor and traditional holiday items. Some food trucks and vendors will rotate weekly, ensuring every visit offers something new.

Loudonville’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area will be in effect throughout the event, allowing adults to get beer, wine and other beverages outdoors while strolling the market.

Friday, Dec. 5 also will coincide with Krampusnacht, an Alpine tradition honoring Krampus — the mischievous companion to Saint Nicholas who serves as a reminder for children to stay on their best behavior. Visitors are encouraged to join the fun by dressing up as Krampus.

On Saturday, Dec. 6, the annual Loudonville Christmas Parade will be at 5 p.m., passing right by the market. The date also is the traditional Saint Nicholas Day, celebrating the fourth-century bishop whose generosity and gift-giving inspired the modern legend of Santa Claus.

The Mohican Christkindlmarkt is organized by the Cleo Redd Fisher Museum, which, since 2022, has offered Christmas Market Tours to Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

For updates and event details, follow the Mohican Christkindlmarkt on Facebook or visit www.crfmuseum.com/christmasmarket.