Union Depot’s European Christmas Market Returns

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Union Depot's European Christmas Market | Twin Cities Agenda
photo from uniondepot.org

There’s nothing like a bit of German festivity, crafts, and bratwurst to liven you up after a long week of work. Am I right? St. Paul certainly thinks so. After taking a break last year due to the (continuing pandemic), the St. Paul European Christmas Market returns this weekend, starting Friday. Bring your family, your friends, or fly solo to the European Christmas Market at Union Depot. You’ll find Santa Claus, eggnog, Glühwein, mechanical maestros, and plenty of ugly sweaters for everyone.

Union Depot's European Christmas Market | Twin Cities Agenda
Photo credit: Kristy Owen

Age-Old

In Germany they call these outdoor markets Christkindlmarkts, translating to “Christ-Child Market.” They’re meant to be a four-week celebration of Advent, and are traditionally held in the town square with food and craft vendors accompanied by song and dance and other events. And they’re nothing new: These open-air markets can be traced as far back as 1298, and show no intention of dying out. Other countries besides Germany celebrate the season to this day, even if it’s only an abbreviated version, and the spirit remains with much culture to enjoy.

Classic Market Food/Drink:

  • Bangers & Mash
  • Polish Kielbasa
  • Brat & Kraut
  • Ale Pretzel
  • Spanakopita
  • Potato Pancakes
  • Apple Cinnamon Strudel
  • Hot Chocolate
  • Gluhwein (hot mulled wine)

Fingers crossed they’ll offer each and every one of the classics mentioned above; their official menu is TBA for the moment, but last year’s market saw them all served hot and fresh.

Union Depot's European Christmas Market | Twin Cities Agenda

Market Hours @ The Depot

Friday, December 1: 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 2: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 3: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday, December 8: 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 9: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 10: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Entertainment line-up changes day-to-day, so be sure to check out their schedule on-line for more information on who is doing what when. The kiddos will love the live storytelling and reindeer. Then again, won’t most of us, regardless of age?

The Depot is surely steppin’ its game up. Check out their event page for more happenings, like free yoga on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays.

Read this next: Head to these Twin Cities winter markets to get a jump on holiday shopping