West Michigan’s Dutch Christmas market makes national destination list

HOLLAND, MI -The European tradition of outdoor Christmas markets selling specialty foods, handmade trinkets and Après-ski-inspired furs have been embraced by Americans in recent years.

Michigan's take on the tradition was acknowledged by Travel + Leisure.

The national magazine rounded up 10 European-style Christmas markets to visit in the U.S., including unique festivities like California's Nordic town Solvang's Julefest and The Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco.

Holland's Dutch traditions have stretch from Tulip Time in the spring to Kerstmarkt in the winter. The annual event got a nod on the magazine's list for its traditional food, and artisan demonstrations.

Holland's Kerstmarkt has become a lovely little holiday tradition along the Lakeshore. Its vendors have expanded in recent years to a few dozen, all of whom carry unique gift items for holiday shoppers.

The weekend markets are loved by locals, but also draw in a good number of visitors who want to do a little treasure-hunting with friends and family.

The Kerstmarkt is located at the corner of Eighth Street and Pine Avenue, where the city's Farmer's Market sets up shop.

A rotating cast of holiday vendors display their wares in little huts. In recent years, the offerings have included woolen goods like handmade mittens and hats, apothecary scents, jewelry, handcrafted wood art and more. There's also usually a spot at the end to get fresh pine boughs and wreaths for decorating.

This year, there is a Kerstmarkt Christmas Card available and a new collectable gluhwein mug.

The market is more than a shopping experience, it's an event.

There will be dog sled demos, handbell concerts, appearances from Santa & Mrs. Claus, Sinterklaas, the Dickens Carolers, and other musical guests.

The Holland market's location at the edge of downtown makes it perfect for strolling to nearby restaurants and coffee shops, too.

The weekend market runs from Nov. 23 to Dec. 21. Go on a Saturday to stop by the farmers market that shares the same space.

Also downtown Holland, Sinterklaas, the Dutch figure based on Saint Nick, will ring in the Christmas season on Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec.7.

At Holland's famous Windmill Island the new Magic at the Mill will return for a second year. The LED tulip light show will dazzle Friday and Saturdays all December this year starting Friday, Dec. 6 running through Saturday, Dec. 21.