Author Archive Suzanne Hull

BySuzanne Hull

#CDM2021 Gift Guide | Steinbach Nutcrackers

Use this guide to find gift ideas from “an der Weihnachtsecke”, our store at Christkindlmarket Des Moines.

According to German folklore, Steinbach Nutcrackers were given as keepsakes to bring good luck to your family and protect your home. The legend says that a nutcracker represents power and strength and serves as a trusty watchdog guarding your family from evil spirits and danger. A fierce protector, the nutcracker bares its teeth to the evil spirits and serves as the traditional messenger of good luck and goodwill.

For almost two centuries the Steinbach Nutcracker family has been producing fine wooden products. Today, Herr Christian Steinbach heads the family operation carrying on the tradition with his daughter Karla. Karla Steinbach, who is Vice President is being groomed to become the sixth generation to head the company. Together, they oversee product development and quality control at the factory now located in Hohenhameln, in the northern region of Germany.


Chubby Bavarian Santa, $138

This Chubby Bavarian Santa is a symbol of festive gifts. Packed full of gifts in his blue Christmas bag, he presents all of Bavaria with great gifts for young and old. With his dark red reindeer pullover, his pointed-large hat and his long white beard, he brings not only gifts but also the Bavarian costumes into people’s homes – and of course with handmade precision by Steinbach.


BBQ Bill, $138

Nothing beats a cozy barbecue with family and friends in the summertime. This BBQ Bill is the image of the grill master, who delivers freshly grilled sausages, a juicy steak or delicious grilled vegetables for everyone. Equipped with spicy sauce and barbecue tongs in his hand, he makes sure there’s happy faces at the dining table. The apron and the hat complete his look perfectly. A real hero over the hot coals!


Beefeater, $138

Supreme guardians of the London Tower: For the first time in history, a German Nutcracker heads the Beefeater. He is the head of the Order of the Tower of London and the bodyguard of the English Royal House and today as a tour guide to the world on the go. With a size of 12″ and his red and black uniform, he attracts special attention from collectors. Royal handicraft from Steinbach.


Birdy Snowman, $340

This friendly snowman offers the birds food and offers protection in his specially made birdhouse. In the arctic winter, he is the bird’s best friend. A romantic winter wonderland relationship for every living room. Handcrafted with great attention to detail – by Steinbach!

Limited 2000 pieces


Black Forester, $138

This nutcracker shows a traditional German forester. You can recognize him by his red black robe and the typical hat. He carries a detailed cuckoo clock and a decorated bar with him. The bearded forester is hand-made in the Erzgebirge.


Chubby Fisher, $138

Cod, salmon or walleye – no matter what fish lands on the plate at Christmas, this Chubby Fisher is well-prepared to catch his dinner with his net. Handcrafted with love and care in detail – “Made by Steinbach”


Chubby Oktoberfest, $138

O’zapft is! (Bavarian for “It’s tapped!”). A keg tapping is a common ceremony for the opening of a folk festival. The art of barrel tapping is to carry out this action in such a way that little beer is sprayed and the tap is driven into the barrel with as few hits as possible. The first barrel tapping may be performed according to old nutcracker tradition with this 31 cm high staff Oktoberfest nutcracker. Made in Germany with much love and care by hand.


Cozy Santa with Music, $360

This Cozy Santa is a carbon copy of his role model from the North Pole and walks through the snow with his big golden staff. Lovingly hand-crafted, and every little detail was taken care of in the production: from the embroidered hat to the high-quality clothes to the gift-filled bag at his feet. The typical, dark red clothing is complemented by the golden details and fits perfectly with his white hair and beard. In the gift bag, which our Santa has worn through the snowy landscape, all kinds of presents for the children are hidden: In addition to a teddy bear, a ball, a doll and a candy cane, is the matching Christmas music, which comes from the built-in jukebox playing “12 days of Christmas”. Simply perfect and 100% “Made in Germany”.

Limited 2000 pieces!


Gnome Skier, $138

This Gnome Skier is a true adventurer on skis. Surrounded by the magnificent mountains and ski trails of the Ore Mountains, it is perfectly equipped to discover the many facets of the wintry mountain landscape. With his self-knitted ski cap, he braves the cold winter excursions and retires in the evening to his cozy warm mountain hut, which looks like a Gnome out of the snow. Gnome-tastic and “Handmade in Germany!”


Goose Boy with Music, $278

Our Goose Boy is on a hike through the fields with two of his goslings. He wears a big hat and a cozy sheepskin vest. Equipped with his shepherd’s staff and light luggage he is on the way to a new adventure. Maybe the destination is your living room? He also brings along a music box from which “Ein Tag so wunderschön wie heute” sounds.


King Arthur, $198

Who doesn’t know, the story of Arthur, the great King of Britain, and his sword Excalibur, which he drew from a stone and made him invincible – from Camelot, his magnificent castle, or the mighty wizard Merlin; and, finally, the adventures of the Knights of the Round Table – Gwalchmai, Lancelot, Parzival, Galahad, Tristan, and others – who went in search of the Holy Grail, the chalice that Jesus used at the Last Supper and, according to legend, eternal youth donates. This “King Arthur” Nutcracker is with its 19″ a true legendary giant. With his red golden color combination, his magnificent golden crown and his legendary sword Excalibur, he is a true nutcracker legend. Handcrafted in Germany with love and care in detail – from Steinbach!


Midwest Farmer, $340

Farmers are among America’s greatest innovators and help feed, clothe and fuel a growing world. this new Midwest Farmer Nutcracker also stands for this innovation. He is wearing his big straw hat and dungarees. He holds his freshly harvested carrots in one hand and his rake in the other. At his feet is a wheelbarrow and a cow. Farming for the future. Handcrafted with great attention to detail – by Steinbach!

Limited 2000 pieces


Mountain Climber, $198

Attention: Avalanche! This Mountain Climber is the best alpinist in the world! The Ore Mountain friend is the first nutcracker to climb Mount Steinbach. With his well thought out and professional mountaineering equipment including an ice pick, rope and strong boots, he is prepared for any climb. His goal: to conquer the showcase peaks of this world. A handcrafted wooden art expedition in the high-altitude euphoria – from Steinbach!


Mountain Skier, $340

The Steinbach Mountain Skier is the first nutcracker of the new Steinbach – Mountain Series. It is strictly limited to 2,000 pieces and convinces with its high-quality workmanship and the carefully chosen details such as the leather drinking bottle and the hand-knitted cap.

The Mountain Skier was a pioneer of skiing in North America. After the Norwegian immigrant Martin A. Strand opened the first ski factory in America at the end of the 19th century, the conquest of the American mountains and the world-famous American ski resorts in the Rocky Mountains and Aspen began.

The mountain skier played a key role in this development. He explored the most far away corners of the mountains and has experienced countless adventures, which are still told today in the light of the campfires in the many mountain camps.


NC Guardsman, $299

The German manufacturer, Steinbach, is well-known for its high-quality, the loving details and craftsmanship. This nutcracker is completely made of oak wood and is finished with a steady hand in the Steinbach factory. The long white hair and mustache fits perfectly with the green and red colors. Equipped with lantern, helmet and spear, this nutcracker is well-prepared for his task and will be a nice and useful eye-catcher for you – not only during the Christmas time.


Old Mountain Trapper, $340

There is hardly a trade that has more real dangers than that of the trapper.

The North American trapper is active in the fur trade and on the daily hunt for beaver. He has roamed the most remote corners of the Rocky Mountains for centuries and explores the wild west. In the wilderness he finds his freedom. A piece of American history for every collector.

The Old Mountain Trapper is the third version of the Steinbach Mountain series and includes impressive details and extremely high quality workmanship with carefully selected accessories. After the Yukon Gold Digger, the Old Mountain Trapper takes you on an adventure into your living room.

Limited 2,000 pieces


Santa with Arch, $198

An illuminated arch makes the darker months so much nicer and therefore belongs with every traditional German Christmas decoration. Together with this German Santa you can illuminate the Christmas season. The interplay between these two traditional German Christmas decorations is one of the most beautiful and delightful Christmas decorations – handmade by Steinbach! The arc has mini LEDs and the engraved details with the Steinbach swallows. With its red robe and white wool collar, this German Santa refines the overall picture and is a true work of art for every Steinbach collector.


Soldier, $198

This 17″ tall “Big Soldier” belongs to the Royal Force. In the early 17th century, soldiers preferred a bat sword to stun their enemy quickly and effectively. His uniform includes wide-cut trousers and a jacket-like camisole with wide sleeves. Handcrafted and hand-painted in Germany, this wooden Soldier Nutcracker is a beautiful gift item.


Troll Bavarian Santa, $138

With a fur hat and gift bag, the 10.6″ tall Troll Nutcracker comes from Bavaria. He wears a typical Bavarian Christmas costume, ready to hand over the presents. He was decorated with great attention to detail and worked by hand in the Erzgebirge – “Made in Germany”.


Troll Black Forester, $138

A traditional resident of the German Black Forest shows this 9.5″ tall, bearded nutcracker with a thick white mustache. He is recognizable by his dark red robe and black hat. He carries a detailed cuckoo clock in his hands. Handmade with love and care in detail – “Made by Steinbach”


Troll King, $138

The title of the highest, secular ruler of the Steinbach monarchy, this 11.4″ tall “Troll King” is 100% authentic. As an authoritarian but cordial leader he is both feared and respected, by the citizens. He can be recognized in particular by his blue royal robe, the gold-blue crown and the scepter of pure gold. Handcrafted with love and care in detail – “Made by Steinbach”


Troll Oktoberfestler, $138

This 10.6″ tall Oktoberfest Bavarian Man with Beer is a German Nutcracker handcrafted by Steinbach. It is the perfect gift for anyone who loves Oktoberfest and classic German beer. He’s dressed head to toe in festive German garb from his feathered Bavarian hat to his green shirt with gold reindeer print and red Lederhosen. In one hand he’s holding a foamy mug of beer and in the other he’s holding a heart-shaped sign that reads “Oktoberfest”.


Tschaikovsky and his ballet, $258

This Tchaikovsky nutcracker represents the notes and most important characters of his most famous ballet ‘The Nutcracker’. In loving detail, each small figure is recreated in detail to the original. Tchaikovsky himself wears a white shirt and a chic suit made of premium-quality material. On the base next to the opera-figures is a superimposed keyboard. Everything 100% handmade “Made in Germany”.


Uncle Sam, $198

Probably the most famous advertising figure in the United States: Uncle Sam – a man with white hair and a serious facial expression. Like its great role model, this nutcracker “Uncle Sam” wears the typical national colors of the US: a dark blue jacket, a vest decorated with stars, and red and white striped pants. A special eye-catcher is the large US flag, which he proudly holds in his hand and a small Statue of Liberty, which is as detailed as the original. 100% handmade “Made in Germany”.


Yukon Gold Digger, $340

Since the 19th century, adventurers have been searching for gold in various regions. The Yukon River is well-known and popular for prospectors from all around the world. Today, they search with modern machines, but back in a pickax, shovel and gold pan were enough. This nutcracker proudly presents the yield of the last hours: Gold grains in his hand and in the sack behind him. Well-equipped for the adventure, he is dressed warmly in coat and cap with his drinking bottle, pickax and blanket. The dynamite at his feet will help him get to the valuable nuggets faster.

The Yukon Gold Digger is the second figure from the Steinbach Mountain Series impressive with its detail, the extremely high-quality workmanship and carefully selected accessories. After the Mountain Skier from the last collection, the Gold Digger from the American mountains comes to the collector’s home.

Limited 2000 pieces

BySuzanne Hull

FREE Children’s Activity Kit Drive Through Pop-Up at Salisbury House

Hey all you Christmas-loving crafters! CDM Curbside’s Kinderkorner, sponsored by MidAmerican Energy Company, will be hosting a free, drive-through pop-up event at the Salisbury House (4025 Tonawanda Drive, Des Moines, IA 50312), Sunday, November 15th from 9 – 11 am. There will be five different European-inspired Christmas craft kits for children ages 1-12 while supplies last.

Twist together a lucky Ukrainian Christmas Spider; learn about the Italian Christmas witch as you craft her broom; share the love after decorating a Croatian licitar heart; celebrate the season piecing together a Spanish pinata; or fold together a traditional Tyrolean Hat (Alpine Hat).

Don’t forget to shop CDM Curbside presented by Christkindlmarket Des Moines Nov. 9th – 22nd with pick at Principal Park Dec 3rd-6th. The Kinderkorner will have three FREE children’s craft kits exclusive to the online marketplace that you can add to your shopping cart.

Can’t wait to see you!

BySuzanne Hull

Pickle Creek Herbs | #CDMCurbside Vendor

  1. Tell us about your business

Hello from Pickle Creek Herbs! We are a small family farm in SE Iowa. We grow herbs, garlic, peppers, and fruits that we then use to create artisan infused olive oils and vinegars, soaps, salves, and balms. We take the process from seed to store and make everything ourselves using our own original recipes. We want to show how amazing herbs can be when they’re grown by passionate farmers who love their plants, their community, and their Iowa soil.

  1. What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at CDM Curbside?

We first heard about Christkindlmarket Des Moines in 2016, and the uniqueness of it jumped out and grabbed our imagination—we hadn’t seen anything like it in Iowa before, and we just knew we had to be a part of it. And then we had such a great time with the visitors, volunteers, and vendors that we kept coming back year after year. Every year was better! So of course we had to come back again this year. It won’t be the same as seeing everyone in person (which we love and will miss!), but if anyone can capture Christmas cheer and bring it to you online and curbside, it’s Christkindlmarket Des Moines.

3. What products will you be selling at CDM Curbside and why did you choose them?

To stay in the spirit of Christkindlmarket Des Moines as much as possible, we’ll be selling only our handmade artisanal products that we create using our own herbs and recipes, including infused olive oils and vinegars and herbal soaps and balms. We’ll especially be featuring holiday gift boxes and bags in traditional holiday colors.

4. Anything else you’d like to share?

Be sure to check out our Apple Strudel Balsamic, which we created especially for Christkindlmarket Des Moines!

BySuzanne Hull

#CDM2021 Gift Guide | Steins and Glassware

Use this guide to find gift ideas from “an der Weihnachtsecke”, our store at Christkindlmarket Des Moines.

Peruse our offering of authentic beer steins and glassware, guaranteed to “wow” the aficionado on your holiday gift giving list.


200th Anniversary Silent Night Chapel, $250

This hand-painted, relief decorated beer stein was created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Silent Night Christmas Carol first sung on December 24th, 1818 in a chapel in the alpine village of Oberndorf near Salzburg, Austria. The chapel is dusted by a fresh snowfall and is framed by bouquets of alpine Edelweiss flowers on either side.

On the morning of December 24th in 1818, assistant priest Joseph Mohr asked Franz Xaver Gruber to compose a suitable melody for his “Silent Night” poem.

He wrote the melody that very same day.  It was at the Christmas memorial mass in the year 1818 in the chapel of St. Nicolas where locals first sang the Christmas Carol “Silent Night, Holy Night” (German: “Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht”). Every year on December 24th by 5pm a tranquil mass is held at the chapel, where the Silent Night Carol is sung in many languages. 

Lyrics of the Silent Night Christmas Carol in German:

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht! – Alles schläft; einsam wacht

Nur das traute hoch heilige Paar. – Holder Knab’ im lockigen Haar

Schlafe in himmlischer Ruh – Schlafe in himmlischer Ruh

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht – Hirten erst kundgemacht

Durch der Engel Halleluja – Tönt es laut von fern und nah:

Christ, der Retter ist da – Christ, der Retter ist da

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht – Gottes Sohn, oh, wie lacht

Lieb’ aus deinem göttlichen Mund – Da uns schlägt die rettende Stund

Christ, in deiner Geburt – Christ, in deiner Geburt

Banner on top reads “Silent Night Chapel 200 Years Stille-Nacht-Kapelle”. The base and rim are bordered by edelweiss, Christmas bells & sheet music.  Relief pewter conical lid and cobalt blue background.

Limited Edition of only 5,000 individually numbered beer steins Worldwide!

Volume: 1/2 Liter
Height: approx. 10.25″


Alphorn Blowers, $85

Relief stein, 0.5 l, “Alphorn blowers”, colored, with pewter lid, stoneware, Manufacturer: Zoeller & Born, Germany


Bayern Horn, $70

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9-1/4 in.


Beer Brewers Pewter Pilsner, $150

This exquisitely detailed, solid pewter beer cup or pilsner tulip (pilstulpe) with footed base has three panels with relief decorated scenes; beer being brewed, a horse drawn beer wagon delivering kegs of beer and patrons of a biergarten enjoying the finished brew.

Part of Artina’s Gambrinus – patron saint of brewers – collection.

Volume: approx. 8oz to fill line (top border), 9oz to rim Height: approx. 6.25″


Bier Tent, $50

Painted in 1935 by Ernst Schlemo, this image provides a festive actual view of the inside of the Munich Oktoberfest Schottenhamel Bier Tent. The Schottenhamels are the oldest innkeeper family, attending the Oktoberfest since 1867. This is the tent where the Oktoberfest officially starts each year, when the Mayor of Munich taps the first barrel.

Material: Porcelain
Origin: Germany
Volume: 1.0 L
Dimensions: 9-1/2 in.


Bierwagon, $50

The image that appears on this stein was painted in 1910 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Munich Oktoberfest. Decorated bierwagons were used originally to transport 100-litre barrels to the Oktoberfest. The powerful teams of four horses wore decorated harnesses and the coachmen were highly respected. Today, the high consumption of beer (5,000,000 litres in 1995) at the Oktoberfest makes bierwagon deliveries impractical. However, they do continue as a demonstration of the old tradition.

Material: Porcelain
Origin: Germany
Volume: 1.0 L
Dimensions: 9-1/2 in.


Bremen, $85

City relief stein, 0.5 l, “Bremen”, colored, with pewter lid, stoneware, Manufacturer: Zoeller & Born, Germany


Castle Gate, $250

This tower stein is decorated as a castle tower. On the front of the stein, opposite the handle, two doors open on the side of the stein to show you a scene inside with a man valiantly waving a flag with a castle in the background. The doors are sealed with a pewter German eagle crest that snaps the doors closed. A conical pewter lid completes the piece.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 11-1/4 in. Limited edition.


City Pilsner – Berlin, $20

Gold-leaf crown on top rim. Spiral faceted glass body.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.


City Pilsner – Düsseldorf, $20

Gold-leaf crown on top rim. Spiral faceted glass body.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.


City Pilsner – Frankfurt, $20

Gold-leaf crown on top rim. Spiral faceted glass body.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.


City Pilsner – Heidelberg, $20

Gold-leaf crown on top rim. Spiral faceted glass body.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.


City Pilsner – München, $20

Gold-leaf crown on top rim. Spiral faceted glass body.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.


City Pilsner – Rothenburg, $20

Gold-leaf crown on top rim. Spiral faceted glass body.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.


Crests Stein, $120

Stoneware, hand-painted raised relief decoration with gold relief accents. This stein prominently features the German Eagle against a midnight blue background with white snow-like highlights. All 16 Regional Coats of Arms are displayed below, to the left and to the right of the eagle. Deutschland is etched into a raised ribbon near the bottom. The unusual pear-shaped stein body and the pedestal base combine to create a very attractive body design. An ornamental pewter lid completes the piece.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 10 in.


Dancers, $200

This stein was made from molds acquired from the original factory of Paul Werner Corzelius (some of which are over 100 years old!). This stein was made just a few kilometers from the original Gerz Sessenbach and Corzelius Hoehr Grenzhausen factory sites.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 3.0L
Dimensions: 17-1/2 in.


Deutschland, $115

Stoneware, raised-relief decoration. The northern coast, the Rhein River valleys, the mountains and the Black Forest are the major regions and geography of Germany and are represented by this stein. The Imperial Eagle is the main motif with antiqued gold crown above it and a banner with the word DEUTSCHLAND below it. Very attractive subtle barrel shape and muted coloring.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.75 L
Dimensions: 10-1/2 in.
Limited edition of 5,000 pieces


Equestrian, $179

Stoneware, hand-painted raised relief decoration. This barrel-shaped stein features a portrait of a horse opposite the handle encircled in gold, a rider jumping a fence to the left, and a horse frolicking in a field to the right. The stein is hand-painted with bold colors and gold-leaf accents. An antiqued conical pewter lid completes the piece.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.50 L
Dimensions: 9 in.
Limited edition of 10,000 pieces


Europe Souvenir, $225

This hand-painted relief beer stein shows a panorama of famous European cities & their skylines/notable monuments including Paris, Rome, Florence, Munich, Vienna, Amsterdam, Venice, London & Lucerne. The upper rim is decorated with a clog, a bakers hat, a bunch of grapes, a beer mug and more. The lower rim has the country flags of France, Great Britain, Italy, Germany, Austria & Switzerland each separated by a golden star. The front features a banner reading “Europa – Europe”, a map of Europe circled by gold leaf decoration & two crossed European Union flags. Pewter conical lid.

Limited edition of 10,000 individually numbered beer steins Worldwide!

Height: 11″ Volume: 0.75 Liter


Fixierkrug (puzzle mug), $65

Beer stein, “Fixierkrug”, 0.5 l, “German flags”, fun article, (you need to keep a special hole shut in order to drink), porcelain, Manufacturer: Domex, Germany


German-American History, $75

The body of this stein is a smooth, white and blue glazed, high quality stoneware decorated with a gold wrap around design.  Along the top border of the stein are the words, “GERMAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE.” The left side of the gold design features a timeline detailing significant events in the history and accomplishments of German-Americans, beginning with the year 1608 when Germans arrive in the English settlement of Jamestown, VA. Images of popular American traditions adopted from their German heritage and famous German-Americans adorn the left side as well.

The right side of the stein features additional images of famous German-Americans and aspects of American culture adopted from its German heritage. The timeline from the left side continues on the right, beginning with events in 1856 and ending with the 2000 census results revealing that 15% of the American population are of German descent.

At the center of the decoration is a German Eagle crest design against a U.S. Flag background. Encircling the design are the words, “GERMANY” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and above and below are maps of both countries. Rows of raised stars decorate the ornamental pewter lid.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.75 L
Dimensions: 9-3/4 in.


Hopfenschild – 0.125L, $65

Pewter relief stein, 0.125 l, “Heidelberg” & “Munich”, black with pewter lid, stoneware, Manufacturer: Zoeller & Born, Germany


Hopfenschild – 1.0L, $90

Souvenir stein “Hopfenschild”, 1.0 l, “German cities”, black with pewter lid, stoneware, Manufacturer: Domex, Germany


Hunter’s Kiss, $150

This large, traditional stein features a hunter embracing a woman for a kiss. The full color, raised relief stoneware stein is 18″ high, hold 2.0 liters, and is finished with an ornamental pewter lid. 

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 2.0L
Dimensions: 18 in.


Kannenbaecker – Braukindl, $25

Kannenbaecker stein, 0.5 l, “Braukindl”, Greetings from Munich w/6 brewery logos, stoneware, Manufacturer: Domex, Germany


Kannenbaecker – City Motif, $25

Kannenbaecker stein, 0.5 l, stoneware, Manufacturer: Domex, Germany


Kannenbaecker – Stammtisch, $25

Kannenbaecker stein, 0.5 l, “Stammtisch”, stoneware, Manufacturer: Domex, Germany


Kannenbaecker – Denmark, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a Denmark banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Kannenbaecker – England, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a England banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Kannenbaecker – Finland, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a FInland banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Kannenbaecker – Germany, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a Germany banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Kannenbaecker – Ireland, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a Ireland banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Kannenbaecker – Italy, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a Italy banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Kannenbaecker – Scotland, $20

This half-liter, classic gray stoneware kannenbaecker mug is decorated with a pewter embossed appliqué depicting an eagle with crown above a Scotland banner.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: China
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.


Lovers Stein, $100

Meticulously hand-painted with precise detail, this stein features a romantic couple on a balcony standing amidst roses, doves and angels. Castles decorate the background. The German phrase on the side states, O schoene Zeit Du Zeit der Liebe, which means, Oh what a wonderful time of love. With a flared base, this stein is a classic Thewalt stein and is one of his all time best selling items. A roseten pewter lid rests on top. Made in Germany.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.5 L
Dimensions: 7-3/4 in.


Nürnberg – uncolored, $155

City relief stein, 0.5 l, “Nuernberg”, uncolored, with pewter lid stoneware, Manufacturer: Zoeller & Born, Germany


Oktoberfest, $210

Relief beer stein, 1.0 l, “panorama Oktoberfest 2010”, rustic, with pewter lid, stoneware, Manufacturer: Zoeller & Born, Germany


Romantische Franken, $150

Panorama relief stein, 0.5 l, “romantic Franken”, rustic, with pewter lid, stoneware, Würzburg – Nürnberg – Bamberg, Manufacturer: Zoeller & Born, Germany


Stoneware Boot, $150

This is a unique stoneware boot with traditional stein styling.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 2.0 L
Dimensions: 14 in.


Trumpeter, $150

This traditional stein has a classic antiqued green and cream decoration. Opposite the handle is a design with a trumpeter and his horse with a castle in the background bordered by an ornate frame. A conical pewter lid completes the stein.

Material: Stoneware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 1.50 L
Dimensions: 13-1/2 in.


Wine Goblet, $25

Glass, hand-cut grape and leaf pattern. Green colored foot.

Material: Glassware
Origin: Germany
Volume: 0.20 L
Dimensions: 5-1/4 in.

BySuzanne Hull

#CDMCurbside Gift Guide | Christkindlmarket Des Moines Glühwein Mug Collection

Use this guide to find gift ideas from “an der Weihnachtsecke”, our CDM Curbside online store within the CDM Curbside online marketplace of vendors.

Complete your collection, or that of a friend, with EVERY Glühwein mug from the past FIVE years of Christkindlmarket Des Moines: 2016-2020! Each one decorated with iconic scenes of Des Moines and the holiday season. *VERY limited quantities on 2016- 2019 mugs*


Christkindlmarket Des Moines Glüwein Mug Collection, $62
A complete set of commemorative Christkindlmarket Des Moines Glühwein mugs: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020






BySuzanne Hull

Free Children’s Craft Sponsored by MidAmerican Energy

Pick up a free Halloween inspired Christmas craft kit from CDM Curbside presented by Christkindlmarket Des Moines and sponsored by MidAmerican Energy at the Drive-Through Bite-Size Market on October 31st.

Learn about the Italian Christmas witch as you craft her broom and wrap it around a sweet treat or discover the wonder of the Ukrainian Christmas Spider and it’s tree decorating skills.

Kits will be available at the entry to the market while supplies last. If you are interested in more cultural Christmas crafts, visit our Kinderkorner pop up on November 15th at the Salisbury House and don’t forget to add a kit as you shop the CDM Curbside online marketplace November 9 – 23 with Curbside Pickup at Principal Park December 3 – 6.

BySuzanne Hull

#CDM2021 Gift Guide | Cozy Logo Wear

Use this guide to find gift ideas from “an der Weihnachtsecke”, our store at Christkindlmarket Des Moines.

Is there an outdoor-lover on your gift list? How about a set of cozy convertible mitten/gloves, a scarf, or a hat all with the Christkindlmarket Des Moines logo? Think of how they’ll enjoy staying toasty and warm on a winter walk or while creating that epic snowman?

CDM Gloves – size large, $20

Christkindlmarket Des Moines mitten/glove combo – size large


CDM Gloves – size extra-large, $20

Christkindlmarket Des Moines mitten/glove combo – size XL


CDM Scarf, $15

Soccer/Football style Christkindlmarket Des Moines scarf


CDM Knit Hat with Cuff, $11

Christkindlmarket Des Moines knit hat with cuff and pom-pom


CDM Beanie, $12

Christkindlmarket Des Moines blue beanie

BySuzanne Hull

#CDMCurbside Gift Guide | Scottish Tea Time

Use this guide to find gift ideas from “an der Weihnachtsecke”, our CDM Curbside online store within the CDM Curbside online marketplace of vendors.

Experience the best of the afternoon tea traditions with Shortbread Biscuits from Shortbread House of Edinburgh and carefully crafted tea from The Edinburgh Tea & Coffee Company. 

Hazelnut & White Chocolate Shortbread, $12.50

Truly handmade all butter shortbread biscuits made by Shortbread House of Edinburgh with crunchy pieces of roasted hazelnut and white chocolate chunks. An all butter shortbread recipe using only the finest ingredients.

Salted Caramel Shortbread, $12.50

Truly handmade all butter shortbread biscuits made by Shortbread House of Edinburgh with the classic combination of sweet caramel blending perfectly with the salt and buttery shortbread biscuit. An all butter shortbread recipe using only the finest ingredients.


Clotted Cream Shortbread, $12.50

Truly handmade all butter shortbread biscuits made by Shortbread House of Edinburgh made even more indulgent with the addition of Clotted Cream. An all butter shortbread recipe using only the finest ingredients.


Shortbread Fingers with Dark Chocolate, $8.00

Made by Shortbread House of Edinburgh each box contains a sealed tray of eight shortbread fingers with chocolate chips. These biscuits are irresistible with satisfyingly rich dark chocolate chunks, a treat for everyone.


Edinburgh Tea & Coffee Companies’ Tartan Trio, $20.00

This modern gift pack combines the best of premium Whisky flavored tea, coffee and fudge.


Edinburgh Tea & Coffee Companies’ Scottish Collection, $12.50

A selection of traditional Scottish brews, featuring: Thistle, Scottish Breakfast, Heather and Whisky flavored tea. Each teabag comes with string & tag design and is individually wrapped to keep the high quality leaf teas fresh.

BySuzanne Hull

#CDMCurbside Gift Guide | Traditional Christmas Stollen

Use this guide to find gift ideas from “an der Weihnachtsecke”, our CDM Curbside online store within the CDM Curbside online marketplace of vendors.

Originally from Saxony, Germany this Christmas specialty is a long, shallow, yeasted cake packed with spices, dried fruit and nuts with a thick roll of marzipan in the middle. Discover these delicious stollen which are perfect for sharing.

Kuchenmeister’s Butter Almond Stollen, $13

Finest ingredients like butter, almonds, raisins and candied fruit give this stollen its typical Christmas flavor.


Kuchenmeister’s Christollen, $10

Kuchenmeister Christmas tollen is a specialty and is baked for generations based on a traditional recipe. Popular in this classical way it is filled with raisins and candied fruit.


Kuchenmeister’s Luxury Marzipan Stollen, $11

Based on a traditional recipe and filled with moist marzipan. Raisins and candied fruit add the finishing touch to this classic stollen.


Kuchenmeister’s Orange Stollen, $8

Baked with a scrumptious sprinkling of raisins, candied orange and lemon peels and marzipan filling infused into rich bread and covered in powdered sugar.


Kuchenmeister’s Rum Stollen, $11

Kuchenmeister’s ready made cakes are a delight for the afternoon or as after-dinner dessert. Made with the finest ingredients and over 100 years of baking experience, this rum cake is destined to please your palate.


Kuchenmeister’s Black Forest Cherry Brandy Stollen, $17

The Black Forest Stollen features cherries and other authentic ingredients destined to please your palate.

BySuzanne Hull

Volunteer at #CDMCurbside

Christkindlmarket Des Moines

CDM Curbside presented by Christkindlmarket Des Moines

November 29th – December 6th, 2020
Principal Park

Des Moines European Heritage Association (DMEHA) invites you to be a part of something great: CDM Curbside presented by Christkindlmarket Des Moines. Volunteers are integral to a successful community event. We need your help and we have several volunteer opportunities to choose from whether you are looking for just yourself or a group, indoors or outdoors. Be sure to include family members, friends and others who could join you to make it more fun!

Click here to sign up!

For 2020, DMEHA has announced that it will change its annual in-person holiday experience to “CDM Curbside”. CDM Curbside will feature an online marketplace open Nov. 9 to 22, hosting several vendor online stores featuring unique holiday wares and edibles. After purchasing, customers can choose various drive-thru pickup times at Principal Park’s Main Lot from Dec. 3 to 6.

CDM Curbside will allow customers to pick up their purchases from multiple vendors at one place and time from the comfort and safety of their vehicles. Prior to pick up, vendors will deliver the customers’ orders to one location allowing volunteers to then group the orders together by customer. Vendors will not be on site for curbside pickup.

Shop the Virtual Marketplace: Nov 9, 12:01am – Nov 22, 11:59pm

CDM Curbside pickup day and time:
Thursday, December 3: 5pm – 8pm
Friday, December 4: 11am – 8pm
Saturday, December 5: 9am – 6pm
Sunday, December 6: 12pm – 5pm

Volunteer no-shows can cause great difficulties for the planning and production of CDM Curbside. We ask that you report on time and remain on task for the duration of your shift(s). All volunteers must be at least 16 years old when they report for their volunteer shift.

YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST: We will be following the CDC’s latest COVID-19 guidance. Face coverings are required, social distancing is encouraged as much as possible and volunteer managers will wipe down high-touch areas between shifts. Should you forget your face covering, a limited number will be available.

Click here to sign up!

Redeem your volunteer points for a small token of our appreciation (1 Shift volunteered per day = 1 Point):

White – 1 Point
2020 commemorative pin
Mini Rittersport (chocolate)
Blue – 2 Points
Spray hand sanitizer
Full size candy bar
Gold – 3 Points
CDM branded pint glass
2020 commemorative ornament

Order Fulfillment – Sorter – Indoors: Vendors will ship or deliver customer orders to Principal Park’s Cub Club. Sorters will unpack the customer orders and place them on individual vendor tables alphabetically by last name. Each volunteer will be assigned to one vendor table to allow for social distancing.

Order Fulfillment – Picker – Indoors: Attention to detail is a must! Pickers will be provided a customer order pick sheet and assemble the customer orders from various vendors. The customer orders will be organized by customer last name on individual vendor tables.

Order Fulfillment – Checker – Indoors: Attention to detail is a must! The Checker works with the Bagger to confirm the customer orders picked by the Picker. The Checker writes the customer name on each bag and adds a few stickers. The Checker also identifies orders that are incomplete and escalates any issues to a Manager.

Order Fulfillment – Bagger – Indoors: The Bagger works with the Checker to confirm the customer orders picked by the Picker. The Bagger adds printed materials and ribbon to the bag and transports the orders to a holding area adjacent to the fulfillment area while organizing the orders alphabetically by last name by pickup day.

Transporter – Indoors/Outside: Transports fulfilled customer orders from Principal Park’s Cub Club Suites to Principal Park’s Main Lot using a hand cart and Caryall Utility Cart while keeping the orders organized alphabetically.

Production Set Up – Outside: Do you have an eye for detail? Work with a team to set up Christmas trees, assemble signage, hang stringed lights, decorate wooden vendor stalls, etc. **Some heavy lifting required**

Curbside Pickup – Traffic Controller – Outside: Stationed at the entrance to Principal Park’s Main Lot, the Traffic Controller will make sure people pulling into the Main Lot are CDM Curbside customers. If not, send them off with a friendly smile and a flyer for Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021.

Curbside Pickup – Greeter – Outside: Checks in customers driving through the Principal Park Main Lot to pick up their online orders. Customers will be instructed to write their name and where they want their order placed (back seat or trunk) on a piece of paper in their windshield for contactless delivery. The Greeter will direct the customer to the shortest pickup lane and call ahead via walkie talkie to a Manager with the customer name and pickup lane.

Curbside Pickup – Stager – Outside: Collates customer orders and delivers to assigned pickup lane.

Curbside Pickup – Checker – Outside: This volunteer role needs to complete online I-PACT (Iowa – Program for Alcohol Compliance) Training. Attention to detail is a must! Once the customer’s vehicle pulls up to the loading area, the Checker will confirm the customer’s identity and tell the Runner which name to grab. If the customer ordered alcohol, the Checker will need to check an ID. The Checker will verify the order one final time and mark it as “Delivered”.

Curbside Pickup – Runner – Outside: The Runner brings the customer order from the staging area (adjacent hut) to the Checker for final verification and then places the order in the vehicle’s back seat or trunk.

Production Tear Down – Outside: Remove Christmas trees, disassemble signage, remove stringed lights, remove decorations from wooden vendor stalls. **Some heavy lifting required**