Frigid temperatures are ushering in some changes at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt this weekend. Officials have made the call to adjust operational hours for the beloved winter market. Yesterday, they announced the market will close at 7 p.m. tomorrow, and remain closed throughout Sunday, FOX59 reported.
According to a new policy adapted by the organizers, operations cease whenever temperatures dip below 20 degrees. It was noted by officials that the policy is to protect the "vendors, volunteers, guests and staff" who might be put at risk due to the extreme conditions. In a statement obtained by FOX59, officials shared, "We understand and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause."
Visitors eager to experience the holiday charm and shop for unique gifts will have another chance come Monday, as the market anticipates reopening from 4 to 9 p.m. the evening next Monday. Following their temporary closure, the market officials commented, "We’re hopeful this will be the end of the cold snap, and we look forward to bringing holiday magic to visitors in the coming week," according to the announcement on FOX59.
In light of this seasonal interruption, Carmel's Christkindlmarkt has been having to juggle the joy of seasonal festivities with the realities of Indiana weather. So far this season, half a million people have visited the market, buoyed by a mix of over 60 huts offering special gifts and the soulful sound of holiday music. "We’ve had a lot of big crowds, which is what we wanted to see," Michael Nahmias, vice president of operations for Carmel Chriskindlmarkt, Inc., told WISH-TV. Despite the current closure, the market is expected to run through Dec. 24.
For those looking to keep updated on the status of the market, organizers recommend following the event on social media. Waiting to enjoy or work at the market who are freezing temperatures was cited as risky for both guests and equipment. "We know this is disappointing, and we don’t make these decisions lightly," the organizers expressed in a post relayed by WRTV.
