The return and future of Carmel Christkindlmarkt
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It's time for Carter Green in Carmel to transform into a winter wonderland. Photo: Justin L. Mack/Axios
Carmel's Christkindlmarkt is back to close out the year with some German-inspired food, drinks and holiday shopping.
Why it matters: The annual celebration at Carter Green is one of Central Indiana's biggest and most beloved seasonal attractions.
The intrigue: The lead up to Christkindlmarkt 2024 has been surrounded by drama.
- Last month, the board of Carmel Christkindlmarkt Inc. — the nonprofit organization that operates the market — was reorganized by the city without warning amid declarations from Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam to curtail spending related to the event.
- While the nonprofit runs the market, Carmel covers the bill for things like security and setup.
- The mayor said in early October that "a reprioritization of city spending" and an establishment of some new guidelines would be necessary for the market's future success.
By the numbers: According to Finkam, the city has spent more than $8 million in support of the event since 2017.
- In 2024, the city's Christkindlmarkt costs are expected to eclipse $1.5 million.
- A report released in June found the 2023 market drew 475,000 visitors and had an economic impact of more than $23 million.
Catch up quick: The shakeup led to questions about Christkindlmarkt ownership, as well as concerns that the mayor's cost-focused approach would stamp out some of the magic that has made the market an award-winning attraction since its inception.
The latest: On Monday, the Carmel City Council took a step toward answering some of those questions by unanimously approving a proposal sponsored by Councilor Jeff Worrell to establish an affiliate review committee.
- The committee will focus on the city's relationship with Carmel Christkindlmarkt Inc., Promote Carmel Inc., Carmel Midtown Community Development and Carmel City Center Community Development Corporation.
- The six-person entity will include three council members, the mayor and two people appointed by the mayor.
- The committee will create a report that summarizes each organization's purpose, governance structure, risks to the city and more.
What they're saying: "This initiative will establish a new level of transparency and accountability in our government. And I want to be clear that this is not an effort to investigate or impugn any current or former city official or employee," Worrell said.
- "While some may feel concerned about the committee's findings … our sole agenda … is to work diligently within our government framework to support and establish precedents that will help Carmel be the very best city it can be."
What's next: The committee is targeting a February launch.
If you go: Carmel Christkindlmarkt opens Saturday and runs through Dec. 24.
- Open 4-9pm Wednesday-Thursday; 12-9pm Friday-Saturday; and 12-8pm Sunday, with extended hours in late December.
- Don't forget to check in on the Holiday Adventure Pass to earn points for swag.
Yes, but: If you can't wait for the weekend, get a taste of the magic early — on Wednesday night from 6-9pm at Wundernacht.
- The ticketed event is an adults-only evening with food and drink samples, photo ops, ice skating and live entertainment.
- Tickets start at $150.