Need a little inspiration to get your holiday shopping jumpstarted? Take a trip into the past by visiting one of the world’s oldest shopping traditions – Weihnachtsmarkt – otherwise known as a Christmas Market or Christkindlmarkt. The first of these oh-so charming outdoor markets was said to debut in Germany in 1384! The market provided a chance for the villagers to gather in their town square, barter goods for Christmas gifts, sip hot mulled wine (Glühwein) and beer, show their children the nativity scene that many volunteers would have worked on for weeks, and most importantly, socialize in the holiday spirit.

Today outdoor holiday markets are still going strong with a major presence in Germany, Austria, Czech Republic and Romania. But if a jaunt across the pond isn’t in your agenda in December, you can still indulge in this tradition without getting out your passport.

Take your pick on these top five American outdoor holiday markets:

Christkindlmarkt of Chicago

1. Christkindlmarkt of Chicago

Taking over Daley Plaza in the Chicago Loop is the country’s most successful Christkindlmarket. Here you’ll find lines of red and white striped rooftops over wooden huts where inside German vendors (here just for the event) sell handmade ornaments, nutcrackers, dolls and all sorts of crafts. The air smells of roasting nuts, bratwurst, hot pretzels, potato pancakes and gingerbread in between all the crafts stands. Guests can indulge in every delicious German treat they can dream up. Inside a gigantic warming hut, hot Glühwein and beer is served at communal tables. The live German polka band gets everyone’s arms swinging in merry ol’ fashion. Cheeks are rosy and smiling, the decorations are over the top and the food is to-die for: a not-to-miss stop in Chicago through Dec. 24. (christkindlmarket.com)

Christkindlmarkt of Denver

2. Christkindlmarkt of Denver

Similar to the Chicago market, the Denver version serves up authentic German treats and sells handmade gifts from German vendors. Located at 16th Street Mall and Arapahoe Street, this is the best of the west! (denverchristkindlmarket.com)

3. Union Square & Columbus Circle Holiday Markets, N.Y.

These two markets may be in New York but here the theme is “shop small” – get to know the artisan vendors and local farmers that bring their goods to these incredible bazaars. And, of course, being the melting pot that it is, these New York markets feature global cuisine and gifts from ‘round the world. (urbanspacenyc.com)

4. Christkindlmarkt of Bethlehem, Pa.

How could a town called Bethlehem not host a holiday related fair?  Located at 645 E. First Street PNC Plaza, this market works with the ArtsQuest Center in order to provide a rich itinerary of events such as historic city tours, music and comedy shows, participating local restaurant events and of course, shopping, shopping, shopping. (christmascity.org)

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

5. Christmas Village in Philadelphia

Located in Love Park (on the west side of City Hall), the Philly market takes pride in modeling itself directly from the markets of Germany and feature more than 50 vendors and plenty of good eats. Check the calendar to plan around their diverse array of family-friendly activities. (philachristmas.com)

So what are you waiting for? The clock is ticking so get your fast-pass to one of the world’s oldest traditions with the closest American outdoor holiday market to you!

Have you ever visited a Christkindlmarkt?