Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Belleville Holiday Events
Belleville transforms into a winter wonderland with a packed schedule of holiday events. Explore the authentic German Christkindlmarkt, meet Santa, and enjoy a festive parade. Experience the magic of free horse-drawn trolley rides, a gingerbread 5K, and a charming cookie stroll. Discover unique gifts and seasonal delights throughout the season.
What to Expect
Authentic German Christkindlmarkt and free trolley rides
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $
- Parking: In addition to street parking, downtown Belleville offers several free parking lots. These lots can be found on the Downtown Parking Guide.
- Pets: Service animals welcome
Other Christmas Events Near Belleville
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday shoppers
Vibe
Festive and traditional
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Annual Santa Parade
- Santa on the Square visits
- 12th Annual Belleville Christkindlmarkt
- FREE Horse-drawn Trolley Rides
- Gingerbread 5K Run/Walk & Kids' Dash
- Downtown Cookie Stroll
- 36th Annual Gingerbread Contest
Location
Event Details
Duration
Varies by event
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Belleville
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Belleville
Food & Drink
Food and beverages available at Christkindlmarkt
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the Christkindlmarkt website for specific entertainment schedules, as live performances vary by date.
- Arrive early for the Santa Parade to secure a good viewing spot, as it's the largest in Southern Illinois.
- The horse-drawn trolley is free and a wonderful way to see the decorated Public Square and market; check the schedule for weekend hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the Christkindlmarkt and downtown area, especially if participating in the Cookie Stroll.
- Visit the Belleville Santa House website for the most up-to-date hours for visiting Santa, as they can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main holiday events happening in Belleville?
Key events include the Santa Parade, Santa on the Square visits, the Belleville Christkindlmarkt, free horse-drawn trolley rides, a Gingerbread 5K, and a Downtown Cookie Stroll.
Is there a cost to attend the holiday events?
Many events are free to attend, including the Santa Parade, trolley rides, and browsing the Christkindlmarkt. Some activities like the Cookie Stroll and 5K may have registration fees.
Where can I find the most up-to-date event schedules?
It's recommended to check the specific event websites or the City of Belleville's Holiday Events page closer to the season, as details and hours can be updated.
What kind of vendors can I expect at the Christkindlmarkt?
The Christkindlmarkt features unique vendors offering food, beverages, and a variety of goods, often with a German Christmas market theme.
Is parking available for the holiday events?
Yes, there is street parking and several free parking lots available in the downtown area, as indicated on the Downtown Parking Guide.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.