Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., December 23, 2025– ArtsQuest’s 33rd annual Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial, saw 145,552 holiday shoppers (an increase of nearly 14% compared to 2024) walk through the entrance doors during the six-weekend long holiday market, held from November 14 to December 21, 2025. This year marked a milestone season with the debut of the all-new Winter Wonderland presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, which expanded the beloved market into an even more immersive holiday village filled with festive décor, added experiences and a second guest entrance.
Crowds packed the campus to find the perfect gifts from nearly 170 vendors, crafters and artisans representing 14 states and one country, Scotland. Free Fridays, which remained from 5 to 8 p.m., saw a total of 21,199 visitors.
“This year’s Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial marked an exciting new chapter,” said Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO of ArtsQuest. “The debut of Winter Wonderland presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, allowed us to expand the experience into a truly immersive holiday village, creating more space, more magic and more opportunities for our community and visitors to gather, celebrate and make memories together. From record-setting attendance and popular new igloos to the incredible support of the artisans and food vendors, this season demonstrated just how deeply Christkindlmarkt resonates with our region. As one of ArtsQuest’s most important annual events, its continued growth plays a vital role in supporting our non-profit mission and helps us provide nearly 40 percent of our arts and cultural programming free to the public. We’re incredibly grateful to our partners, members, volunteers, artists and guests who made this milestone year so special.”
Artisans and crafters offered many different gift-giving options, including everything from holiday-themed and handmade ornaments to clothing and outerwear, beautiful jewelry, candles, unique artwork, woodwork, pet products, fine foods and more. Christkindlmarkt welcomed 42 new vendors this year and 12 food vendors offered food options from traditional German fare to soups, burgers, sandwiches and more. Several food trucks remained outside the tents to help alleviate longer food lines and give additional menu options.
This year also introduced new location names across the entire Christkindlmarkt campus, enhancing the traditional German market atmosphere and offering guests a more immersive experience. Christkindlmarkt and Winter Wonderland locations included Wilkommen Haus, Handwerk Haus, Fest Haus, Hutte Markt at PNC Plaza, Essen Haus, Warmen Haus, a reimagined St. Nickolaus Haus, the new Glas Haus – home to the ArtsQuest Glass Studio and Hot Glass Experiences – and the hospitality hub, Volks Haus presented by Omnivent Event Services.
The debut of Winter Wonderland added a 33% larger and immersive new dimension to the Christkindlmarkt experience. A second entrance, expanded pathways, a performance stage and new gathering spaces created a magical holiday environment and provided a new home for several guest-favorite experiences – including Hot Glass Experience, Visits with St. Nick presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, part of Jefferson Health and Breakfast with St. Nick.
One of the biggest successes of the season was the introduction of four rentable heated igloos, which became an instant hit with visitors. New igloo rentals sold out quickly during the majority of Christkindlmarkt weekends, with 192 families and groups enjoying the cozy, private two-hour experience complete with comfortable seating, a warm Amish fireplace, a Bethlehem-branded blanket and a gallon of hot chocolate. Many guests also added curated food-and-beverage packages, making the igloos one of the most talked-about new additions of 2025.
Winter Wonderland also featured Christkindlmarkt’s new permanent performance stage, which hosted 75 live performances, including music programs from 12 local schools, instrumental ensembles, and caroling groups, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the expanded village.
The ArtsQuest Glass Studio sold out its Glass Blowing Experience quickly, with a record-breaking 404 tickets sold. Breakfast with St. Nick was also a hit, with 295 children and adults enjoying their time with the big guy.
Bluey and Bingo said hello to 129 visitors at a sold-out Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo. The First Impressions: A Holiday Speed Dating Experience event saw 51 speed daters ready to mingle. The Holiday Pop-up Market welcomed 15 emerging regional artists to Christkindlmarkt. And, over in the new St. Nickolaus Haus, the ‘Make Your Own’ events welcomed 107 crafters.
“Our annual holiday market was a wonderful celebration of community and holiday spirit,” said Eric Bauder, Director of Events Operations at ArtsQuest. “It brought together local artisans, vendors and families for a memorable experience filled with unique gifts, delicious treats and festive activities. This year’s market exceeded expectations, and we’re thrilled to have been able to support our local businesses while creating lasting memories for all who attended.”
While another Christkindlmarkt has come to a close, there’s plenty of winter fun to enjoy! Catch a movie at The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas, get creative with one of our winter visual arts classes, sharpen your comedic skills in a winter comedy class or enjoy a show at the Musikfest Café.
About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences, using arts and culture as drivers of economic development in our urban communities. ArtsQuest supports this mission through performing and visual arts, film, arts education and outreach, youth programming and a wide range of cultural events, anchored by signature venues and initiatives including its flagship event, Musikfest; the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL, a centerpiece for the Valley’s artistic communities; the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks; and the LVHN, part of Jefferson Health Turn & Grind Shop, an adaptive reuse project expanding space for programming, festivals, private events and nationally touring exhibits. ArtsQuest welcomes more than 1.9 million people annually, with nearly 40 percent of its programs free to attend, generating a regional economic impact of more than $143 million annually. ArtsQuest’s Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign supports the continued growth of its mission to make the arts accessible for all.