Annual German-inspired holiday market held at Drekker Brewhalla Nov. 21–24

Experiencing an idyllic German Christmas market is closer than a plane ticket away for F-M residents. Folkways is once again transforming Drekker’s Brewhalla into a winter wonderland complete with vendors, live music and culinary delights from around the world for their third annual Christkindlmarkt.

“Chirstkindlmarkt gives our community a chance to spend time outdoors during what can be a cold and dark season,” said co-organizer Simone Wai.

The four-day event is separated into four enchanting areas, each with their own specialties and activities to offer.

As in traditional German Christmas markets, the Vendor Village will be set up outdoors. Local artisans will be selling their handmade wares, providing an opportunity to check off your Christmas list. Vendors include Bohemian Blü, Lost in Fargo and Livin’ the Dream Pottery. The latter created this year’s commemorative mug.

Customers can choose to purchase one filled with their favorite Drekker beer on tap, including their traditional holiday Glübier brewed specifically for Christkindlmarkt.

“I’m so excited to make these mugs for the people of the Fargo-Moorhead community and to be able to do so with Folkways,” said Livin’ the Dream Pottery ceramic artist and owner Hayden Swanson. The mugs are limited edition and have sold out every year prior.

Also outdoors, the Winter Wonderland provides the opportunity for market-goers to warm up by the fire and roast a s’more or two surrounded by purchased Christmas trees covered with lights. The trees are purchased in advance and picked up after the Christkindlmarkt ends Sunday.

Axe-throwing through Triple Axe, as well as donuts from the Dusted & Fried food truck, are also available in the Winter Wonderland.

Those looking for a bite to eat will find options inside Brewhalla at the Food Hall and Sweet Shop. Currywurst from Wurst Beer Hall and the Raclette cheese experience with Mosaic Catering are just two of the options.

Staple bakeries familiar to patrons of the Red River Market such as the Baker’s Wagon, Michelle’s Table and Jen’s Bakery will be peddling holiday treats at the market’s Sweet Shop.

On the Mezzanine, various artists will host craft workshops. Sabrina Hornung will be demonstrating German folk art paper cutting (Scherenschnitte) Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Unglued will be teaching a class on creating gnome ornaments Friday at 5 p.m. and Artist Nichole Rae will be guiding crafters in gift tag creations Saturday at noon.

For a full schedule of events, including the timings for the daily live performances and music, visit xmasfargo.com.