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As the holiday season draws near, the picturesque town of New Glarus, Wisconsin, transforms into a winter wonderland, welcoming locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the joyous spirit of the holidays at the New Glarus Christkindli Market. From December 1st through 3rd, 2023, this charming town will play host to a spectacular outdoor Christmas market and family activities which promises to be an enchanting experience for all. Nestled in downtown New Glarus, the Christkindli Market invites you to explore an array of local merchants within wooden on-street chalets adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Browse more than 30 vendors showcasing an assortment of locally made and sourced holiday gifts, decorations, and delectable foods. With a warm drink in hand, the market offers the perfect opportunity for you to find unique treasures for every person on your shopping list. From traditional, to a touch of Wisconsin charm, local vendors will dazzle you with their designs. Santa's Chalet presented by Smart Motors One of the highlights for families is the chance to meet Santa Claus in his cozy chalet, presented this year by Smart Motors. "Children can share their Christmas wishes and parents can capture timeless memories with the jolly old man himself," says Justin Jackson, General Sales Manager for Smart Motors. "It's such a fun time for kids, and we are thrilled to be able to do this," said Jackson. But the holiday magic doesn’t stop there—prepare for a unique encounter with Wisconsin's very own "reindeer." Yes, you read that right—they're none other than our beloved cows, all dressed up to bring joy and laughter to visitors of all ages. Wisconsin Reindeer Horse-drawn Wagon Rides For a touch of old-world charm, hop aboard a horse-drawn wagon ride and enjoy the scenic beauty of New Glarus. From traditional stone streets to the chalet style architecture of local shops and confectionaries, bask in the one of kind allure of Wisconsin's "little Switzerland". The rhythmic clip-clop of hooves against the streets will transport you to a bygone era, creating moments of pure enchantment. As you wander through the market, be serenaded by live outdoor music performances and entertainment scattered throughout the weekend. The air will be filled with melodies that add to the festive ambiance, creating an atmosphere brimming with joy and merriment. The best part? Admission to the Christkindli Market is free, allowing everyone to join in the holiday cheer without any barriers. Whether you're a local looking for a delightful weekend or a visitor seeking an authentic small-town holiday experience, you're warmly welcomed to be part of this magical celebration. New Glarus Brewing Unveils Unique Beer While the market offers plenty of family-friendly activities, adults can indulge in a unique and exclusive treat courtesy of the New Glarus Brewing Company. For a limited time during the Christkindli Market, the brewery will unveil Wassail, a specially crafted holiday stout tantalizingly infused with hints of chocolate, vanilla, and spice. The bierstacheln experience, where a hot metal rod is skillfully plunged into the beer, caramelizing it and creating a decadent foam—a delightful indulgence exclusively available for onsite consumption at the market. Don't miss this opportunity to savor this one-of-a-kind brew and elevate your holiday spirit with this special treat. Festival Hours The Christkindli Market will open on the streets of New Glarus on Friday, December 1st, starting at 3 PM and will continue its festivities until 7 PM. On Saturday, December 2nd, the market will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM, followed by the final day on Sunday, December 3rd, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you don't miss out on any of the enchanting experiences this market has to offer. This magical event is brought to life by the New Glarus Chamber of Commerce, a testament to the community's spirit and dedication to spreading joy during the holiday season. As the snow blankets the streets and the aromas of freshly baked treats and seasonal spices fill the air, the New Glarus Christkindli Market invites you to create cherished memories, bask in the warmth of the holidays, and embrace the true essence of the season. Join us in this celebration of tradition, warmth, and the magic of Christmas in the heart of Wisconsin.

Grab your lederhosen and dirndls because it's that time of the year again! The New Glarus Oktoberfest is back, and it's ready to bring the spirit of Bavaria to the heart of Wisconsin. From September 21 through September 24, 2023, New Glarus will be alive with the sounds of laughter, clinking steins, and of course, the lively oompah music. This year's Oktoberfest promises to be a four-day extravaganza of fun, culture, and community. Let's dive into the excitement and learn more about the history of New Glarus, the Swiss-inspired gem of the Midwest! The Vibrant History of New Glarus, WI New Glarus, WI Before we dive into this year’s Oktoberfest line-up, let's take a step back in time and explore the rich history of the charming town of New Glarus. Founded in 1845 by a group of Swiss immigrants, New Glarus was established as a haven for those seeking a chance for a better life. The settlers brought with them the traditions, architecture, and customs of their homeland, shaping the town's unique Swiss character. New Glarus Swiss architecture Walking through the streets of New Glarus feels like stepping into a quaint European village. The iconic Swiss-style buildings, colorful flower boxes, and picturesque landscapes pay homage to the town's Swiss heritage. Oktoberfest: A Fusion of Cultures and Fun Now, fast forward to the present, and New Glarus continues to celebrate its heritage in the most joyous way possible – through Oktoberfest! While the town's origins may be Swiss, Oktoberfest pays tribute to the Bavarian culture, bringing together the best of both worlds. It's a true fusion of cultures that captures the essence of community, camaraderie, and celebration. Smart Motors - 2023 Sponsor This year's Oktoberfest, proudly supported by Smart Motors, promises to be bigger and better than ever. With four days of non-stop festivities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From traditional dances to beer tasting, live music to delicious food, and chainsaw woodcarving to horse drawn wagon rides, you won't find a moment of dullness during this exciting event. There’s even a petting zoo! Full list of events. What to Expect at Oktoberfest 2023 Lively Music and Dancing: Get ready to stomp your feet and clap your hands to the infectious rhythms of oompah music! The live bands will have you on your feet, dancing the polka and singing along to classic tunes that will transport you straight to the heart of Munich. From old world rhythms and bluegrass swager, to local favorites from The Jimmys. Culinary Delights: No Oktoberfest is complete without mouthwatering German cuisine, and this year won't disappoint. Savor the flavors of bratwurst, sauerkraut, soft pretzels, and more. And of course, don't forget to raise your stein high with a hearty "Prost!" as you enjoy some of the finest brews from New Glarus Brewing Co., a major supporter of Oktoberfest 2023. Family Fun: Oktoberfest isn't just for adults – it's a family-friendly event! There will be dedicated kids' activities including wagon rides, petting zoo and crafting to ensure every member of the family has a fantastic time. Tap The Wooden Keg: Now an annual tradition, Friday night at 7pm is when New Glarus Brewing Co. will tap a wooden keg of their famous Staghorn Octoberfest brew. Bring your camera (and your thirst), because this yearly ritual is a sight you won’t want to miss. New Glarus Brewing Co. - Tapping Wooden Keg 5. Community Bonding: One of the most heartwarming aspects of Oktoberfest is the sense of community it fosters. Locals and visitors come together, forging new friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. It's a time to celebrate diversity, culture, and the simple joys of life. Smart Motors: Driving the Spirit of Celebration Just as New Glarus is steeped in history and tradition, Smart Motors has a rich legacy of its own. As a trusted automotive dealership since 1908, Smart Motors has been serving the community with top-notch vehicles and service for 115 years. Their commitment to excellence and community involvement makes them the perfect partner for an event that's all about celebrating the best things in life. As the Fall temperatures start to roll in, the excitement for the New Glarus Oktoberfest, is reaching a fever pitch. From the rich history of New Glarus to the lively traditions of Oktoberfest, this event is a must-attend for anyone looking to experience the magic of culture, community, and camaraderie. So, mark your calendars, dust off your steins, and get ready to raise your voices in a hearty "Prost!" to an unforgettable celebration!