LOUDONVILLE — The magic of a traditional European Christmas market is coming to
downtown Loudonville this December as the village prepares to host its first-ever Mohican
Christkindlmarkt.
The festive outdoor market is inspired by centuries-old holiday traditions in Germany, Austria, and throughout Europe. The market will be open to the public the first two weekends in December (Dec. 5-6, and Dec. 12-13) from 5 to 9 p.m.
Originating in the 14th century, Christkindlmarkts began as advent street fairs in German towns, where merchants and artisans gathered to sell handmade gifts, seasonal foods, and warm drinks.
Loudonville’s own market will capture that same nostalgic charm with wooden vendor cabins, glowing string lights, fire pits, and the scent of evergreens filling the air along North and South Water Streets in the heart of the village’s downtown.
The event is quickly coming together thanks to a remarkable community effort. Cabins are being built by the Construction Technologies students at the Heartland Technical Education Center, Boy Scouts, and other volunteers, creating an authentic, handcrafted atmosphere that mirrors the tradition of European markets. Several local businesses and foundations have also contributed to make the market a reality.
Visitors can look forward to a delightful mix of food trucks, fresh-cut Christmas trees, baked goods, local treats, handmade gifts, imported German decor, and traditional holiday items. Some food trucks and vendors will rotate weekly, ensuring that every visit offers something new to discover.
Adding to the cozy community spirit, Loudonville’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) will be in effect throughout the event, allowing adults to enjoy beer, wine, and other beverages outdoors while strolling the market and taking in the lights and music.
Krampusnacht, Christmas parade
Dec. 5 also coincides with Krampusnacht, a playful alpine tradition honoring Krampus — the mischievous companion to Saint Nicholas who serves as a reminder for children to stay on their best behavior. Visitors are encouraged to join the fun by dressing up as Krampus or simply enjoying the lively festivities.
The following evening, Dec. 6, brings the annual Loudonville Christmas Parade at 5 p.m., passing right by the market. The date is also the traditional Saint Nicholas Day, celebrating the 4th-century bishop whose generosity and gift-giving inspired the modern legend of Santa Claus.
The Mohican Christkindlmarkt is organized by the Cleo Redd Fisher Museum, which since 2022 has offered Christmas Market Tours to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Inspired both by the region’s German heritage and by the joy these tours have brought to local travelers, the museum sought to bring that same warmth and wonder home to Mohican Country.
Though this is the market’s first year, organizers hope it will quickly become a cherished local tradition — a place for families and friends to gather around fire pits, sip hot cider or glühwein, and celebrate the season together under a canopy of festive lights.
For updates and event details, follow the Mohican Christkindlmarkt on Facebook or visit www.crfmuseum.com/christmasmarket.
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