ArtsQuest’s 33rd annual Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial, saw 145,552 holiday shoppers, which was an increase of nearly 14 percent compared to 2024, during the six-weekend holiday market, Nov. 14 to Dec. 21, 2025.

This year marked the debut of “Winter Wonderland,” presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health.

There were nearly 170 vendors, crafters and artisans representing 14 states and one country, Scotland.

Free Fridays, from 5 to 8 p.m., saw a total of 21,199 visitors.

“This year’s Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial marked an exciting new chapter,” said Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO of ArtsQuest, in a Dec. 23 press release.

“The debut of Winter Wonderland presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, allowed us to expand the experience into a truly immersive holiday village, creating more space, more magic and more opportunities for our community and visitors to gather, celebrate and make memories together,” Hilgert said.

“From record-setting attendance and popular new igloos to the incredible support of the artisans and food vendors, this season demonstrated just how deeply Christkindlmarkt resonates with our region.

“As one of ArtsQuest’s most important annual events, its continued growth plays a vital role in supporting our non-profit mission and helps us provide nearly 40 percent of our arts and cultural programming free to the public.

“We’re incredibly grateful to our partners, members, volunteers, artists and guests who made this milestone year so special,” said Hilgert.

Artisans and crafters offered holiday-themed and handmade ornaments, clothing and outerwear, jewelry, candles, artwork, woodwork, pet products and food.

Christkindlmarkt had 42 new vendors for 2025. There were 12 food vendors. Several food trucks helped alleviate longer food lines.

This year also introduced new location names, including Wilkommen Haus, Handwerk Haus, Fest Haus, Hutte Markt at PNC Plaza, Essen Haus, Warmen Haus, a reimagined St. Nickolaus Haus, the new Glas Haus, home to the ArtsQuest Glass Studio and Hot Glass Experiences, and the hospitality hub, Volks Haus presented by Omnivent Event Services.

The debut of “Winter Wonderland” added a 33 percent larger dimension.

A second entrance, expanded pathways, a performance stage and new gathering spaces created a magical holiday environment and provided a new home for several guest-favorite experiences, including Hot Glass Experience, Visits with St. Nick presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, part of Jefferson Health, and Breakfast with St. Nick.

One of the biggest successes of the season was the introduction of four rentable heated igloos, The igloo rentals sold out quickly during the majority of Christkindlmarkt weekends, with 192 families and groups enjoying the two-hour experience with comfortable seating, a fireplace, Bethlehem-branded blanket and one gallon of hot chocolate. Many added food-and-beverage packages.

Winter Wonderland also featured Christkindlmarkt’s new permanent performance stage, with 75 performances, including music programs from 12 local schools, instrumental ensembles, and caroling groups.

The ArtsQuest Glass Studio sold out its Glass Blowing Experience with a record-breaking 404 tickets sold.

Breakfast with St. Nick attracted 295 children and adults.

A sold-out Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo had 129 attendees.

The “First Impressions: A Holiday Speed Dating Experience” saw 51 participants.

The Holiday Pop-up Market welcomed 15 emerging regional artists to Christkindlmarkt.

The new St. Nickolaus Haus, the “Make Your Own” events welcomed 107 crafters.

“Our annual holiday market was a wonderful celebration of community and holiday spirit,” said Eric Bauder, Director of Events Operations at ArtsQuest.

“It brought together local artisans, vendors and families for a memorable experience filled with unique gifts, delicious treats and festive activities. This year’s market exceeded expectations, and we’re thrilled to have been able to support our local businesses while creating lasting memories for all who attended,” Bauder said.