Herzlich willkommen! We invite you to Chillicothe’s very own German Christmas market – the Nikolausmarkt – on Friday and Saturday, November 21st and 22nd. This family-friendly, citywide celebration is the perfect way to start the holiday season!

Begin your festivities at City Park by taking a stroll through our festively decorated chalets featuring local vendors, artisans, and seasonal treats. Come join us as we welcome the holiday season with the lighting of the town Christmas trees on 5:30 p.m. Friday, followed by live music on stage. Saturday morning starts bright and early with the Nikolaus 5K Run/Walk, open to all ages. After crossing the finish line, warm up with a souvenir mug of glühwein at the American Legion. Explore authentic German crafts and trinkets from the German American Central Society shop to the sounds of the Damenchor and Alpenhorn, or even sample a special German-themed menu across the street at Gilmore’s. The fun continues beyond City Park! On Saturday, come watch the Chillicothe Chamber’s Santa Parade, visit the Chillicothe Historical Society’s Rock Island Depot to see the model trains in action, decorate cookies at Odie’s, or paint ornaments at Crossword Café. After the parade, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic Downtown Chillicothe to cap off a truly festive experience. Don’t forget to stop by Picket Fence’s Christmas Open House and Evergreen Senior Living’s Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market. 

The Nikolausmarkt runs from 4–8 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free. The Nikolaus 5K Run/Walk begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, with registration and full event details available online. Follow the Chillicothe Nikolausmarkt Facebook page for updates, schedules, and vendor highlights. Are you a local business and want to join in on the fun? It’s not too late! You can email [email protected] or reach out to us online. This is one weekend you won’t want to miss!