November 23rd and 24th, 2024
It's time! Time to think about planning yourself a visit to the Christkindlemarkt in Carmel Indiana. I can say it's one of my favorites. It's planned out so well, especially considering how many people were there. You can tell that the coordinators and vendors want the attendees to enjoy themselves. This market definitely helps put you in the Christmas Spirit. There were 61 huts that had a variety of European arts, ornaments, steins, clocks and other handmade items to purchase, a stage for different types of traditional European music, plus food and drinks. The sugar plum mulled wine helped keep us warm from the chilly, breezy weather. You do want to check the weather first and come prepared.
The different types of music...
really created a vibe for the market.
Let's talk about that food. Oh, my! There were so many authentic German foods to choose from, that we couldn't get a taste of everything over the course of two days, even though we were splitting things to keep from overeating.
This guy seemed to be thoroughly enjoying making our Traditionnel Raclette. It definitely tasted like it was made with love. I had to video it because it's something we've never seen before.
We are so glad that one of the things we were looking forward to having for the first time lived up to our expectations.
This guy was making us our stroopwaffle. I had never had a fresh made one, but Brian had one in the Netherlands and has always talked about them. This was one of my favorite foods at the market.
Our first experience with a Chimney Cake did NOT disappoint. We had ours dipped in cocoa and peppermint. It was something that is hard to put into words, but you need to try one. This and the stroopwaffle are created equal, in my opinion.
As we left the market to head to dinner, we quickly realized how neat of a city Carmel is. We were looking for a way to get a photo down onto the market. We ended up being led through this beautiful hotel, into the wedding venue hall, then out to a balcony for the perfect view of the market. If I was getting married today, I would want my wedding in this beautiful room. You could tell this man was very proud of this hotel.
The Cake Bake Shop
This is a special, special place!
The decor alone is a reason to walk through the doors, but be sure to eat while you are there, and get an after-dinner espresso. You will not regret it.
There is so much to do and see in Carmel, and it is a very walkable or bikeable place. Seeing some sights along the way, we went to Sun King Brewery and had a few beers before heading back to the hotel. We all agreed that this is a town we need to come back to, during a little warmer weather, for more exploring and experiences.
After a quick workout and another cappuccino, we went back to the market for lunch and then decided it was time to head home.
Thanks for sharing! Great pace and time. Put you into the holiday spirit for sure.