Events
Ascension’s Christkindl Fest—December 7, 3:30pm–6pm
Posted on September 25, 2024 | Posted by Mary Stoneback
RSVP is OPEN for this year’s Christkindl Fest, Saturday December 7, 3:30pm–6pm
EVENT ADMISSION IS FREE!
Christkindl Fest RSVP
RSVP for Ascension's 5th Annual Christkindl Fest, Saturday December 7, 3:30pm-6:00pm. Come and enjoy a festive evening of lights, fire, food, music, crafts and fun for all ages, including even a petting zoo. Peruse market vendors for unique gifts for friends and loved ones. All donations collected will support the KPC Respite Center and Nursery, a non–profit that offers respite care for children and families in Colorado Springs.Volunteer Sign–up Opportunities!
From set-up, making candied almonds and welcoming guests, to serving food and drink to tear down at the completion of the night. There are plenty of ways to get involved! Because of your help we can offer this festive German–style Christmas Market to our local community!
Sign–up Here
Fest Photo Highlights
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WHAT TO EXPECT?
- Friendly people
- German food, drink and treats
- Cocoa the Cupcake Truck
- Warm fires
- Christmas market vendors
- Christmas caroling by candlelight
- Crafts & Fun–tivities
- Something for all ages!
Check out the 2023 Virtual Booklet! (The 2024 Virtual Booklet will be posted soon)
What is a Christkindl Fest?
Christmas markets have been a German tradition since at least the mid 1500s. Seasonal markets were held in Germany year around. Christmas markets were an especially joyous, anticipated event, as they brought light and and laughter to a cold, dark season. Christmas markets, known as Christkindlmarkts, were a festive meeting place for people. Villagers bought and sold homemade Christmas ornaments, decorations, and gifts.
Martin Luther’s Role in Christmas Customs
Religious Reformer Martin Luther played a major role in our current Christmas customs. Luther instituted new Christmas gift giving traditions. Before Luther, the exchange of Christmas presents took place on the Saint Days of St.. Nicholas (December 6) or St. Martin (November 11). The tradition of giving gifts to children on Christmas became a boon to the Markets. Luther suggested that children receive presents from “The Christ Child”, Christkindl. Christkindl is a romantic, fairy like being, dressed in white and gold, with golden hair topped by a golden crown. Christkindl is the German equivalent of Santa Claus.
In the spirit of the season, we will receive donations at the event for The KPC Respite Center.
This coming Advent season, Ascension looks forward to welcoming all. The gathering will be full of delicious food, gifts, and fellowship. You will also experience sounds of the season and more. Bring your family, invite your friends and share the gift and love of the Christ child.
