Check Out This Cool European-Style Christmas Market in Michigan

Even though Christmas is still a little ways away, that doesn't mean that we can't get into the holiday spirit!

Silver Bells in the City

Silver Bells in the City kicked off the holiday magic here in Lansing, and across the state, with the lighting of the official state Christmas Tree.

Read Related: Say Hello to the Official 2023 State Christmas Tree of Michigan

Plus, we can't forget about the infamous "red balls" that adorn the middle of the roundabout in Downtown Lansing.

But Lansing isn't the only Michigan city gearing up for the holidays.

Grand Rapids has something really fun planned.

First Ever Christkindl Markt in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is going to be hosting its first-ever European-style Christmas Market for the holidays.

From November 17th through December 23rd, Downtown Market (435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids) will have an open-air Christmas village, complete with artisans, craft merchants, food vendors, live holiday entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

This is the kind of place where you can spend the whole day; grab a bite to eat, do some Christmas gift shopping, and enjoy general holiday merriment.

Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt Days and Hours

The market will be open Wednesdays through Sundays from November 17th through December 23rd (closed on Thanksgiving Day).

• Wednesdays & Thursdays, 11 am - 7 pm
• Fridays, 11 am - 9 pm
• Saturdays, 10 am - 9 pm
• Sundays, 10 am to 7 pm

Crafts and goods wise, you can expect pottery, ornaments, jewelry, and more. The food options sound pretty out of this world, I'm especially salivating for the sausages & potato pancakes, Belgian waffles, and this raclette dish from Baked Cheese Haus; "Alpine-style melted raclette served overtop a baguette and accompanied by hand-selected charcuterie and accoutrement." Check out all the vendors here.