A free holiday event each Christmas season

About the Market

The European Christmas Market (ECM) was founded in 2011 and held its first event in December 2014. Inspired by centuries-old markets celebrated around the world, its mission is to bring this cherished tradition to Saint Paul

Since then, the Market has grown from a three-day event with 12 kiosks to a 15-day celebration featuring 80+ kiosks and more than 250,000 visitors.

Today, it is a beloved Saint Paul holiday tradition that continues to support local artisans and vendors.

The Market offers visitors unique and handcrafted items such as:

  • Christmas ornaments

  • Nutcrackers

  • Beeswax candles

  • Decorative glass

  • Wool mittens and scarves

  • Jewelry

  • and more

European Christmas Market’s Mission

  • Preserve and celebrate Europe’s shared arts and cultural heritage

  • Revive European traditions in the United States

  • Support local artists, artisans, and small businesses

  • Make European culture accessible through an authentic, family-friendly Christmas market in Saint Paul

Our Leadership

The European Christmas Market (ECM) is proudly run by a dedicated team of board members who share a deep commitment to fostering a festive, inclusive, and culturally enriching holiday experience. Our nonprofit organization works tirelessly to create a space that celebrates European holiday traditions, embraces community, and spreads the joy of the season to all visitors.

At the heart of the ECM is our founder, Renate Sharp. A holiday enthusiast and visionary, Renate’s dream began with just four vendors and a passion for bringing the magic of European Christmas traditions to Minnesota.

Over the past decade, her tireless dedication has helped shape the Market into a beloved holiday destination where people of all ages can immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas.

History & Traditions of Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are a beloved holiday tradition throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other parts of Europe. Dating back nearly seven centuries, these open-air festivals fill town squares with festive sights, sounds, and aromas. The European Christmas Market (ECM) brings this cherished cultural experience to downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Some of Europe’s earliest Christmas markets include Munich’s market, dating to 1310; Bautzen’s, first held in 1384; Frankfurt’s, documented in 1393; and Dresden’s famous Striezelmarkt, established in 1434. Vienna’s “December Market,” dating to 1294, is also considered an early predecessor.

Christmas markets are often called “Weihnachtsmarkt,” meaning Christmas market, or “Christkindlmarkt,” named for the Christkind, or Christ Child. In many German-speaking communities, the Christkind is portrayed by a child wearing a white and gold robe, crown, and angelic wings.

Depending on regional and family traditions, either the Christkind or Weihnachtsmann (Father Christmas) delivers gifts on Christmas Eve. Families may secretly decorate the Christmas tree and ring a small bell to signal that the Christkind has departed and the presents are ready. Variations of this tradition are found throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Italy, Liechtenstein, Ireland, England, and Scandinavia.

Christmas markets typically take place during Advent, from late November through Christmas Eve. Evergreen-covered timber booths line historic town squares as vendors sell handcrafted toys, glass ornaments, warm sugared almonds, and steaming mugs of Glühwein. Traditional music, dancing, food, and festive activities create a welcoming atmosphere centered on community.

Minnesota and the surrounding Upper Midwest have strong Germanic and Scandinavian roots, yet the region has historically offered relatively few opportunities to experience these cultural traditions. ECM celebrates that heritage by recreating the warmth and charm of a traditional European Christmas market in Saint Paul.

More than a shopping event, ECM emphasizes family, friendship, culture, and shared holiday experiences. Visitors can also discover unique European customs, including the fascinating tradition of Krampus.

Have more questions about the Market?

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions Page