BETHLEHEM, Pa. — If ArtsQuest’s Christkindlmarkt holiday market at SteelStacks seemed crowded to you, it's because it was.
The 32nd annual version of Christkindlmarkt saw a record number of shoppers walk through the entrance doors during its six-week run, which concluded Sunday, ArtsQuest said.
It brought out 128,384 visitors from 40 states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., ArtsQuest Chief Executive Officer Kassie Hilgert said.
That's 10,884 — or more than 9% more — than last year's previous record of 117,500 visitors. Christkindlmarkt attendance grew 9% last year, as well, according to ArtsQuest.
“We are thrilled."ArtsQuest Chief Executive Officer Kassie Hilgert in a release
“We are thrilled," Hilgert said in a news release.
She said Christkindlmarkt is vital to ArtsQuest's "mission of engaging and revitalizing communities through the arts."
It also "plays an important role in allowing us to offer nearly 50 percent of programming free to the public," she said.
"We look forward to this festive event each year and welcoming families to all of the holiday programming and events taking place throughout the campus.”
Christkindlmarkt also "supports so many small businesses, area restaurants and hotels throughout Christmas City and the entire Lehigh Valley," Hilgert said.
This year, Christkindlmarkt added an extra weekend to shop, running Nov. 15-Dec. 22.
New vendors, Sip n' Shop are hits
This year had nearly 180 vendors, crafters and artisans representing 12 states and one country, Scotland.
It also offered the second year of Free Fridays, from 5 to 8 p.m., which drew 17,501 visitors, according to ArtsQuest.
Artisans and crafters offered holiday-themed and handmade ornaments, clothing and outerwear, jewelry, candles, artwork, woodwork, pet products, fine foods and more.
Christkindlmarkt welcomed 15 new vendors this year and a dozen food vendors offered food options including traditional German fare, soups, burgers, sandwiches and more. Several food trucks remained outside the tents to help alleviate longer food lines and give additional menu options.
Bars were located throughout the market, including one with Levy Restaurant, ArtsQuest’s food and beverage partner, who offered festive holiday drinks.
New this year, 147 people participated in the first-ever Christkindlmarkt Sip n’ Shop, where they could indulge in festive holiday shopping with six seasonal cocktail samples: Gingerbread Cookie, Deck the Halls, Cranberry Bramble, Snowstorm, Hot Apple Totty and Peanut Butter Cup.
'The spirit of the season'
Also this year, the ArtsQuest Glass Studio sold out its Glass Blowing Experience for the entirety of the weekends early on with 396 tickets sold.
Breakfast with St. Nick also was a hit, with 445 children and adults enjoying their time with the big guy.
“We hope to see everyone next year.”ArtsQuest Director of Event Operations Eric Bauder, in a release
Live music returned at the Christmas tree on PNC Plaza, with 18 performance groups from local school choirs, instrument ensembles and carolers who entertained visitors for a total of 23 performances.
Personal igloos and fire pits were also added to the festive atmosphere, keeping folks warm. Also, new ADA-compliant ramps helped welcome shoppers into the outdoor huts with ease.
“We want to thank all of our visitors, vendors, sponsors and volunteers for making this year's Christkindlmarkt truly unforgettable,” ArtsQuest Director of Event Operations Eric Bauder said.
“We hope the spirit of the season continues to inspire joy, kindness and togetherness in days ahead. We hope to see everyone next year.”
ArtsQuest Ice Rink at SteelStacks will continue to be open daily, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, until Jan. 5.
