Happy 25th birthday to Chicago’s Christkindlmarket. A tradition loved across the nation, this week’s episode is close to home for Ioanna and Aaron. Chicago’s Christkindlmarket began in 1996 as a way to promote bilateral trade between Germany and the United States. Since then, it’s been warming Chicagoan’s hearts as an annual must-attend Christmas tradition! Famous for its mulled wine, delicious German Bratwrust, giant pretzels, roasted nuts, gorgeous ornaments, and of course hearty German beers, there’s something for all to enjoy under the city skyline. We spoke with Leila Schmidt, the Manager for Marketing and Intercultural Communication at the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest. Leila helps run their two locations each year and gives us some insight into how it all goes down. We learned about the origins of the market and how it has evolved into the nation’s best Christmas Market. Leila also shared the story behind their mega-famous mugs which feature German artwork and taught us about who actually works in the vendor booths. Plus, a peek into the wild logistical world of running an outdoor market during the coldest time of the year! We end the episode chatting about some of Leila’s market must-eats and Aaron shares his family’s market ornament tradition.
