Trying to find special gifts for your friends and family year after year can be a difficult task. Malls are crowded and never seem to have anything you need, and you can never think of something for that one person who is impossible to shop for.

For the past few years, I have done all of my Christmas shopping at Christkindlmarket in Chicago, and it never ceases to amaze me! If you are still looking to do some last minute holiday shopping, I would highly recommend going to your nearest holiday market to check it out, and here’s why:

1. Unique Gifts

Each time I go to Christkindlmarket I always find the most unique gifts! Engraved wine glasses, beautiful glass ornaments from Poland or hand carved wooden rosaries from Bethlehem. And if none of that catches your eye, there is always an abundance of European candies and chocolates. There truly is something for everyone!

2. Price Points For All Budgets

Holiday markets have gifts of all shapes and sizes. Whether you are looking for an inexpensive gift for a friend, or a higher-end nicknack, you can find it at a holiday market! I have gotten gifts for my whole family, with only spending about $100! How’s that for holiday cheer?!

3. Experience Other Cultures While You Shop

My favorite part about holiday markets is the experience that you get when going! While they can be very crowded, you always get to experience a variety of cultures. Tasting German chocolates, crepes, potato pancakes and some spiced wine always puts me in a holiday shopping mood! The experience is never ending at a holiday market, and you can even get lucky and hear a live choir singing or even see Santa! It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and get into the holiday spirit with family or friends.

Happy shopping everyone!!

Stay tuned for more holiday cheer as I document my first time hosting Christmas dinner!