ARLINGTON, Texas – The holiday season is getting a little merrier with the return of the annual Texas Christkindl Market, now in its 14th year of operation in Arlington.
Located on the North Plaza of Globe Life Field on East Randol Mill Road, this German-style Christmas market, inspired by Arlington’s sister-city relationship with Bad Königshofen, Germany, promises to provide a joyful venture filled with Old World charm.
Visitors can immerse themselves in handcrafted gifts and exclusive collectibles from 19 different vendors including sought-after Käthe Wohlfahrt merchandise.
Charla White, owner of Sawdust and Bullets and a vendor at Texas Christkindl, sells many creations made from wood, shell cases and acrylic.
“We’ve been participating in this market for about 13 years,” White said.
Offering a selection of kitchen utensils, knives, and lighters, White said that she wants people to be more open to buying handmade items.
Melissa England, owner of Heaven Sent by CJ, has been a vendor at the Texas Christkindl Market for two years, providing customers with handcrafted dough bowl candles, lanterns and hand soaps. England said she sells at the market to bolster the business’ visibility and to “bring in more online business.”
No visit to Texas Christkindl can satisfy without tasty treats. Visitors can savor European flavors with a broad selection of food and drink, including roasted peanuts, liqueur chocolates, German cuisines and the popular mulled wine from Decedent Saint Winery.
In addition to shopping and dining, the Texas Christkindl Market offers a variety of entertainment. That includes live music performances from Arlington Independent School District schools and traditional German carols as well as visits with Santa and train rides for kids to enjoy.
The market has become a popular tradition for many families. Its authenticity has made it a favored destination for residents and tourists.
Henry Lewczyk, the market manager for the Texas Christkindl Market, said he aims to achieve a welcoming atmosphere for attendees.
“We have to stay true to what we’ve set out to accomplish, and that is what we want to be is an authentic German village,” Lewczyk said. “If you come to the Texas Christkindl Market, you’ll see that all the vendors here, it’s their products,” Lewczyk said. “It’s not things you’re going to find in a traditional store.”
As the holiday season approaches, the Texas Christkindl Market offers a unique cultural experience. The market is a free event open to the public with free parking included until Dec. 23.