We're halfway to Christmas, and the Downtown Market is inviting you to celebrate.
The Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt is celebrating Christmas in July on Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, giving holiday enthusiasts a chance to get a taste of the market months before its official return this winter.
The two-day event at Downtown Market offers a preview of what's in store for the Christkindl Markt's fourth season, complete with festive food, specialty drinks, live entertainment, and a first look at new additions for 2026.
Throughout the weekend, Downtown Market merchants will be serving limited-time holiday treats inspired by the Christkindl Markt. Expect favorites like tableside raclette, stollen balls, Christmas cookies, peppermint affogatos, holiday tea specials, peppermint shakes, DIY cookie decorating kits, and other seasonal bites.
On Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., the Christkindl Markt Bar will be pouring traditional Glühwein, Kinderpunsch, and Shandy Claus, a limited-edition collaboration with Brewery Vivant. The summer shandy, brewed on a saison base with lemon and cranberry, is exclusive to the Christmas in July celebration and won't return during the market's regular holiday season.
Returning visitors are encouraged to bring their commemorative Christkindl Markt mugs for discounted refills, while newcomers can purchase a drink and start their own collection. Guests will also get a first look at the 2026 commemorative glassware.
The festivities spill over into Rák Thai, where holiday-themed live music is scheduled for Friday evening, followed by Christmas in July Karaoke on Saturday.
The weekend also marks the opening of reservations for two of the market's most popular attractions: private Alpenglobes and outdoor curling. Booking during the event offers the best chance to secure prime dates before the holiday rush.
As an added incentive, anyone who reserves an Alpenglobe on July 24 or 25 will receive four complimentary holiday whoopie pies to enjoy during their November or December reservation.
Learn more at downtownmarketgr.com!
