The Christkindlmarkt returns to Los Alamos for a second year. The event is 2-7:30 p.m., Dec. 7 in the Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce parking lot at 15th Street and Central Avenue.
Christkindlmarkts are open-air markets where vendors sell everything from arts and crafts to food and beverages. The holiday-themed event originated in Europe but organizer Blair Braden decided Los Alamos, his hometown, would be a good place to introduce the Southwest to this type of holiday shopping.
As a result, a little bit of local flair will be mixed into Los Alamos’ Christkindlmarkt. The Pajarito Brew Pub will serve German-style beer as well as Gluehwein, a hot, spiced wine. Other local food vendors include the Fusion Café and Coffee Roasters and Chocolate Smith from Santa Fe. Roasted chestnuts and a visit from Santa Claus also are on the menu.
This year’s market features 35 vendors and supporting this event is more than just an opportunity to do holiday shopping; it is a way to promote local businesses.
Braden, who co-founded the financial firm Denver Wealth Management, explained he does a lot of business in Los Alamos and the Christkindlmarkt is a chance to give back to the community.
“I do a lot of business in Los Alamos … I just wanted to include other entrepreneurs in the community,” he said.
Several local residents provided assistance in the market including Josephine Boyer, Melanie Pena and Braden’s mom, Debbie Braden. Central Park Square owner Phillip Kunsberg donated the parking lot for the event.
Several vendors commented about how much fun they had last year and most of them are returning for this year’s event, Braden said.
Shoppers can expect to see everything from tinwork, jewelry and pottery to fiber arts, stone carvings and hand-made candles.
There is no charge for vendors to take part in the market, however, they are each asked to donate an item worth between $10 and $20 for a 7 p.m. raffle at the event.