Longer wait times possible as Chicago slashes Christkindlmarket capacity

Christkindlmarket vendors want capacity change

The Christkindlmarket says changes made by the city this year to capacity limits may put it out of business.

CHICAGO - Chicago’s Christkindlmarket will face strict new crowd limits this season under capacity rules issued by the city, officials announced.

What we know:

Chicago’s popular holiday market will now be capped at 1,553 visitors at a time — less than half the COVID-19 pandemic limit of 3,494 people permitted in 2021 with social distancing, according to organizers.

"While we are working to address crowding issues at the Christkindlmarket, this level of restrictions poses an existential threat to the Christkindlmarket and the hundreds of artisans, performers, seasonal workers, and businesses who depend on the visitors it brings to downtown Chicago," organizers said in a statement.

Market officials said the restrictions are expected to lengthen wait times and create financial strain.

Vendors already facing higher tariffs and rising operational costs may feel the impact most, organizers said.

"I travel from Munich every year to sell my honey products and ornaments," said Sabine Korger of Biene’s Honighaus. "With tariffs and now capacity limits, we’ll lose significant income. I’m not sure I can afford to return next year, or even if I will survive this one."

What they're saying:

"The City appreciates the vendors and organizers who have made Christkindlmarket into an iconic holiday-season destination for Chicagoans and tourists alike. The enormous success of Christkindlmarket has pushed the limits of the capacity thresholds for Daley Plaza. The City’s top priority will remain ensuring that the event is held safely and successfully for all involved.

"To address the concerns raised by the organizers, the City is continuing to work with them to increase capacity in a safe and organized manner. The City will continue to work with the organizers to manage the flow of visitors so that the volume meets the needs of the vendors. CFD will offer additional training to event security so that they have adequate preparation to manage an increased flow of visitors, and we will continue to make adjustments as needed.

"We will continue to work with event organizers to evaluate possible alternative locations for next year," City officials said Monday in a statement.

The backstory:

Organizers say the Christkindlmarket generates roughly $196 million in annual economic activity for Chicago, supports more than 1,700 jobs and attracts visitors from around the world.

The market is held in Daley Plaza at 50 W. Washington St., near North Dearborn Street. Visitors can find roasted nuts, unique gifts, bratwurst, hot spiced wine and other seasonal offerings.

Operating hours for the market are shared below: