NICEVILLE, Fla. — The holiday season is just around the corner, and the 2024 Christkindl-Markt returns to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Niceville, bringing the magic of a traditional German Christmas market to the local community.
This year’s event will be held on Friday, November 22, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, November 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, and the event promises festive fun for all ages.
With more than 45 vendors, live music, and a visit from Saint Nicholas himself for Christmas photos, the Christkindl-Markt will offer various unique items perfect for holiday gift-giving. Shoppers can browse stalls featuring live plants, handcrafted jewelry, local artwork, Christmas ornaments, home decor, custom-made quilts and clothing, and much more.
Returning vendors will be joined by new participants, including “Pearls with Purpose,” a non-profit organization supporting survivors of abuse and trafficking through vocational training. Their booth will feature handmade jewelry, wooden nativities, and other holiday crafts.
Attendees will enjoy a full European-inspired menu, including bratwurst, German pretzels, apple strudel with vanilla sauce, gingerbread hearts, and Norwegian specialties like crèpes and waffle cookies.
The food truck from Emerald Coast Kettle Corn will be on-site both days to satisfy popcorn lovers. Warm drinks, including non-alcoholic mulled wine and hot cocoa, will be served in keepsake Christmas mugs.
This year, the Niceville Fire Department and Police, including the K-9 unit, have been invited to make appearances, much to the delight of children and families.
Additionally, a cookie decorating station will allow kids to personalize their own gingerbread hearts, a beloved tradition at Christkindl-Markts.
Proceeds from the event will support charitable causes, including local community efforts and disaster relief initiatives chosen by the organizers.
The market will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1407 East John Sims Parkway, Niceville.
