Search
Resorts & LodgesVacation RentalsDeals & PackagesTravel Guides
List Your Property

A Superior Holiday Shopping Experience at the Mifflinburg Christkindl Market

Mifflinburg is a beautiful town nestled in the Pennsylvania’s Susquehanna River Valley. It's central location within the state makes it an attractive destination for travelers. From visiting the shops and historic homes of the famous Mifflinburg Historic District to participating in large-scale community events, this central Pennsylvania town has something for everyone.

 

The Mifflinburg Christkindl Market is one of the top holiday shopping experiences in Pennsylvania. The Market began over 20 years ago with a small following and today event planners expect over 15,000 attendees. Patrons get the opportunity to shop at over 100 different vendors selling various items including specialty foods, handcrafted glass sculptures, German beer, candles, wood boxes and much more. Entertainment at the Market will appeal to all attendees. Whether attendees spend time watching a performance by world famous street performer, Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy or listening to a performance by St. Louis de Montfort Academy Band, they won't be disappointed. Kinder World is returning, and it’s ideal for those attending with the entire family with kid-centric games and entertainment. ResortsandLodges.com got the opportunity to interview Joannah Skucek, President of the Market, to talk about this great holiday event.

 

RAL: How long has the event been running?

JS: The event began in 1989 with 20 vendors and it covered almost a city block. Today we have over 100 vendors and cover three city blocks.

   

RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?

JS: We estimate that 15,000 visitors attend the Market each year.

   

RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?

JS: This is a family friendly event, so it includes many children and families.

 

RAL: What makes this event unique?

JS: It is a highly successful outdoor winter event which emphasizes German traditions and the German heritage of our area. An annual theme is represented throughout the Market. This year it's Seiffen, Germany’s Craft Capital. Decor for the theme includes a giant 13’ tall roving nutcracker.

 

RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.

JS: There is an ongoing schedule of indoor and outdoor entertainment including concerts, German dancers, marionette shows, children’s Lantern Parade, and St. Nicholas Parade. See our website for a schedule of events.    

 

RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?

JS: Yes, we have the internationally renowned Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy, a zither player who performs German folk music, and other German-themed entertainers from Pennsylvania who contribute to the sounds of the season.

 

RAL: What will attendees find for dining options?

JS: There will be 50 food vendors offering a multitude of German specialties as well as American favorites. Two indoor dinners are available for those who want to warm up and don’t forget the hot mulled wine and German beer sold at the Christkindl Pub.

 

RAL: What is the environment like?

JS: Patrons will enter the Market through spectacularly lit arches that are guarded by nutcrackers and surrounded by elaborately lit trees. They will smell the enticing ethnic foods and spiced drinks. It won't take long for the sounds and sights to draw people into the spirit of Christmas.

 

RAL: What does this event mean to the community?

JS: This community event is the largest in the area and involves the entire community including churches, private organizations, schools, and individuals.

 

RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?

JS: Many businesses report peak sales during this event.

 

RAL: Why should people come to your event?

JS: They can experience a touch of Germany without going abroad. The Market is authentic and extremely well-attended. There is no entry fee, and all entertainment is free of charge. Our goal is to be a one-of-a-kind experience for families and people of all ages.

 

For more information about the Mifflinburg Christkindl Market, please visit their website.