Texas Christkindl Market Returns to Globe Life Field for 16th Annual Season: Dates, Highlights & What to Know

Holidays & Community Events Entertainment District • Globe Life Field North Plaza

A cherished European holiday celebration with true Lone Star hospitality is heading back to Arlington this winter. The 16th annual Texas Christkindl Market will bring traditional German food and drinks, handcrafted gifts, live entertainment, and family fun to the North Plaza of Globe Life Field in the heart of Arlington’s Entertainment District.

The market welcomes guests across two distinct stretches: November 20 through 22, 2026, and November 27 through December 23, 2026. Admission is free, with doors open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., complete with festive “snowfall” scheduled almost every day.

Rooted in 75+ Years of German Friendship Inspired by Arlington’s more than 75-year sister city relationship with Bad Königshofen, Germany, and its deep connection to its friendship city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the market has welcomed guests since 2011. This season, the festivities also align with celebrations for the City of Arlington’s 150th anniversary.

“The Texas Christkindl Market is all about bringing people together to celebrate the magic of the holiday season,” shared Henry Lewczyk, longtime manager of the Texas Christkindl Market. “We’re proud to share the traditions and flavors of Germany while creating a festive experience where families and friends can make lasting holiday memories. Whether it’s your first visit or an annual tradition, we look forward to welcoming guests from Arlington and across Texas to celebrate with us again this year.”

2026 Season Highlights & Special Events

Market lanes illuminated with twinkling lights set the stage for shopping, dining, and seasonal celebrations throughout the grounds:

  • Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony: The official tree lighting kicks off the heart of the season at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, November 27.
  • Photos with St. Nikolaus: Complimentary holiday photo opportunities with St. Nikolaus are scheduled on select dates throughout the run.
  • Fur Family Fridays: Special pet-friendly days invite visitors to bring along their four-legged companions for holiday pictures.
  • Letters to Santa: Children can drop off their holiday wish lists and notes into the market’s dedicated red mailbox.
  • Krampus Night (Dec. 5): On December 5, Krampus arrives with folklore-inspired mischief, celebrating another storied German tradition.
  • Live Performances: Music, dance ensembles, and cultural performances from local schools, musicians, and regional groups will entertain visitors throughout the market run.

Traditional German Fare and Exclusive Holiday Shopping

Visitors can meet both local and international artisans offering distinctive ornaments, collectibles, specialty chocolates, cozy apparel, and handcrafted goods. The market also features exclusive merchandise from renowned German Christmas brand Käthe Wohlfahrt from the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas village.

Guests can come hungry for authentic German cuisine, including fresh schnitzel and bratwurst, alongside sweet funnel cakes and steaming mugs of Glühwein, the traditional German hot spiced wine.

Parking Tip • Lot B Access

Free parking is available in the Texas Rangers’ Lot B directly adjacent to the market on days when events are not taking place at Globe Life Field or AT&T Stadium.

Event Overview & Practical Details

The Texas Christkindl Market is presented by the Texas Christkindl Market and the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau, which promotes the city’s tourism industry supporting over 14,000 jobs, 8,000 hotel rooms, and 16.5 million annual visitors. Find complete schedules and vendor details at txchristkindlmarket.com and arlington.org.

Market Dates Nov. 20 – 22, 2026
Nov. 27 – Dec. 23, 2026

Daily Hours Open Daily
11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Location North Plaza at Globe Life Field
Entertainment District, Arlington, TX

Admission & Parking Free Admission
Free Parking in Rangers Lot B (Non-event days)

“Celebrating over 75 years of sister city friendship with Bad Königshofen and Arlington’s 150th anniversary with handcrafted holiday cheer in the Entertainment District.”

Arlington Network