If your annual Christmas list reads something like, Dad: tie from generic department store, Mom: platter from generic dish store, Grandma, gift card from generic mega-store, then we hate to break it to you, but you are just straight-up boring. –And if you want us to be completely honest, we think you might even be a little bit inconsiderate. Yeah, we said it. If you're not willing to put some time, thought and love into your gift choices, why even bother?
This year, spend your lunch hour wandering through Daley Plaza's Christkindlmarket. You'll feel transported in time and place, wondering if you've stumbled into a quaint German market place. Peruse eclectic hand-blown and painted ornaments not found anywhere besides the market, German products like cuckoo clocks, beer steins and Hummel figurines, as well as toys, jewelry, clothing, home décor and wooden crafts. The gifts are unique, and you're likely to find something perfect for just about everyone on your list. You can also purchase a lot of edible treats for yours truly like hot pretzels, Austrian strudel and assorted roasted nuts and candy.
The market opens Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is open each subsequent day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays until Christmas Eve, when it's open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Daley Plaza is located between Washington, Clark and Dearborn Streets, and admission to the Christkindlmarket is free. Check the official web site for information about live entertainment on various days of the market.