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Follow us @christmasdesmoines on Instagram and @christmasdsm on Twitter for all of the fun photos and up-to-date news on Christkindlmarket Des Moines.
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
Christkindlmarket DSM Beer Release!
Join us as we debut Confluence Brewing Company’s special Christkindlmarket spiced beer just in time for Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017.
$1 of every pint purchased will be donated to Des Moines European Heritage Association, the 501c3 non-profit that produces Christkindlmarket Des Moines. $2 off growler refills!
Make a donation of $25 on site to reserve your Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017 commemorative mug.
Date: Friday, November 24, 2017
Time: 5pm-11pm
Location: Confluence Brewing Company, 1235 Thomas Beck Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
Amana Woolen Mill | #CDM2017 Vendor
Tell us about your business
Amana Woolen Mill, built in 1857, is the oldest business in the Colony and the only remaining Woolen Mill in the state of Iowa. Our textiles express the heritage, value and essence of the originating Amana community with timeless quality design and craftsmanship. We weave beautiful wool, cotton and recycled yarn products on our Sulzer looms in an array of widths ranging from crib-sized baby blankets to king-sized bed blankets. The weaving mill produces cloth for Amana Woolen Mill’s accessory department, where our talented seamstresses develop and hand-sew elegant home goods including table runners, placemats, napkins and pillows. Our line of personal items, consisting of large and small totes, cosmetic bags, wine totes and aprons, have received rave reviews for their beauty and quality craftsmanship.
What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017?
Christkindlmarket Des Moines would be a perfect fit for Amana Woolen Mill’s textiles. German culture and heritage is woven into everything we do. Our community was founded in 1855 by a small group of German immigrants seeking religious freedom. Its members lived simply, without vanity, and dedicated themselves to living sustainably. Through dedication to hard work, progress, and innovation, our businesses have operated continuously for more than 160 years. It may be a struggle to adapt our historic buildings in order to work efficiently, but we believe it’s the right thing to do. We’re constantly working to preserve the methods, talents and ideals passed down by our German forefathers and continue to produce a wide variety of heritage inspired, hand-crafted goods. We are thankful for the opportunity and excited to share these products with you.
What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017 and why did you choose them?
The Amana Woolen Mill will be bringing a variety of wool and cotton blankets a long with an array of accessories perfect for holiday gift giving.
Our Wool Tartans, Houndstooth, Civil War Stripe and Alpine Blanket collections are classic patterns that fit and flow with the atmosphere of Christkindlmarket Des Moines. The Herringbone and Lily cotton throws are some of our most sought-after weaves. We plan on bringing our top selling colors to share.
From the Accessories Department, the ever popular Doliver tote, made from recycled cotton and yarn with stunning leather handles and superb durability. Our small cosmetic/utility bags are always a hit. With a zipper closure to store smaller items and beautiful assortment of colors and weaves, these cute little bags won’t last long.
We’ll be bringing a variety of 4-pack coaster sets (they make perfect stocking stuffers) and wine totes that pair perfectly with a couple bottles of vino and make a thoughtful gift for the host and hostess at holiday gatherings.
Our cotton chef aprons are large enough to shield your holiday apparel from harm, yet stylish enough that you may not want to take it off before the festivities begin! With a generous front pocket and sturdy hand-sewn construction, these aprons make the perfect gift for anyone who loves to cook.
Amana scarves are a practical and thoughtful gift for both men and women. Our line features a stunning assortment of colors and patterns sure to please even your most particular loved one. The scarves are weaved on our looms in both Merino wool and cotton yarns, then hand finished by our talented seamstresses.
We have hand-selected beautiful wood cutting boards in a variety of species and shapes, classic rolling pins, and our ever-popular noodle cutters from The Amana Furniture Shop to round out our Christkindlemarket Des Moines collection. These products are well known for their superior quality and finish. Amana Furniture Craftsmen are both designers and builders, and put experience, passion and know-how into every piece they create.
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
Silent Auction Tree Blog Feature: Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa
The Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa provides meaningful help to Iowan’s impacted with seizure disorders and epilepsy. The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation is to stop seizures and SUDEP, find a cure and overcome the challenges created by epilepsy through efforts including education, advocacy and research to accelerate ideas into therapies.
According to the Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa’s representative, Jessica Hunnell, “We can help families when a loved one is newly diagnosed with epilepsy and guide them to resources to help overcome challenges often associated with epilepsy to improve quality of life. We provide education folders, as well as epilepsy medical ID necklaces/bracelets and epilepsy empowerment groups are held across the state.”
“Advocacy is a large part of what we do, and we are always advocating to improve access for all potential treatment options for seizure management and physician access. Other advocacy efforts include helping navigate the IEP process in the school setting or collaborating with an employment counselor to help obtain and maintain employment with accommodations in place. We organize & host an annual Iowa Seizure Smart Conference which brings in experts to educate families & caregivers on seizure treatment, management & social services and includes a community resource fair and an education program for children.”
The Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa will be using shades of purple, the Epilepsy Foundation’s color of epilepsy awareness, to trim their tree at the upcoming Christkindlmarket Des Moines’ 2nd annual Silent Tree Auction. If you are interested in bidding on this tree and supporting this organization, come to Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017, December 1st-3rd.
Click here for more information on the Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa.
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
A Passport to Christkindlmarket Des Moines
Creativity and exploration! It’s what being a kid is all about. If you didn’t make it to the Christkindlemarket Des Moines (CDM) KinderKorner last year, you might not have noticed the many free activities we provided to those willing to spare a few minutes. There was activity in particular that we offered all weekend to encourage kids and their families to experience the event.
Anyone that stopped by the KinderKorner was offered a CDM Passport. Though nowhere near as official as one you would use for international travel, it served to document young visitors’ progress in exploring the market.
The passport outlined four tasks and upon completion of each, participants received a stamp. A completed passport earned them a prize from the Information Table. The first task was to add a link to our holiday paper chain, a tradition dating back to the 1900s. Next, our market explorers received a stamp for participating in a KinderKorner lead activity, like marking a felt ornament, coloring a picture or learning a seasonal song. The third task required venturing to the hand painted wooden Christkind and St. Nicholas photo cutout to have a picture taken with friends or family. The final stamp was awarded once our brave explorers gathered the courage to ask a question at the Information Table.
Over the course of the event we had over 200 children take part, resulting in lots of smiles, loads of crafts and some legitimately interesting questions asked at the Information Table. For example, can YOU say “Happy Holidays” in six languages?
If you are considering coming to Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017, bring the kids! With all of our free performances and activities we are sure to keep you all entertained!
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
Silent Auction Tree Blog Feature: A Home for EveryBunny
A Home for EveryBunny is Iowa’s only rabbit-specific rescue. Though rabbits are the third most popular pet in the US, they don’t typically get the unique care that their species requires. The goal of this organization is to provide the specific care required for rabbits, as well as to raise awareness of how amazing house rabbits are.
The rabbit rescue has only been in operation since May, but in those few short months, they have been able to rescue about 10 rabbits, and have many more on a waiting list for when foster homes open up. Some of these rabbits have come from absolute deplorable conditions, others were dumped to fend for themselves, and others were simply not wanted anymore.
According to Rachel McCarl, who works with the rescue, “Rabbits are not simply an animal to leave in a hutch. When brought into the home and socialized, these animals have similar personalities to cats. They are playful, loving, and can be very sassy! Rabbits are fantastic pets that are often overlooked, so we want to give them a spotlight.”
“Our tree’s theme will be ‘Snow Bunny’. It will be delicately decorated in snow white with hidden white rabbits throughout the tree. Adopted and adoptable rabbits with be subtly featured as well, making this tree even more meaningful, while also being a great pick for those who are and who are not as bunny crazy as we are.”
Christkindlmarket Des Moines is proud to support A Home for EveryBunny during our 2nd annual Silent Tree Auction. If you are interested in bidding on this tree and supporting this organization, come to Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017 December 1st-3rd.
For more information on A Home for EveryBunny, please visit their website or Facebook page.
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
Vendor Demonstration Schedule Announced!
With the production of Christkindlmarket Des Moines, we hope to show attendees how the items they purchase are made. To that end, we have five vendors who will also be demonstrating their craft. We hope you’re inspired!
Andy Klindt – Chainsaw Carvings, Des Moines, IA | DEMONSTRATION
Andy Klindt is an Iowa artisan specializing in chainsaw sculpture and metal design. Fanciful, functional, or a fusion of each…watching Andy craft original pieces is sure to delight people of all ages!
Offering: Chainsaw carvings, hand-forged metal items, and mixed metal and wood items
Price Range: $20 – $2000
Times:
Friday, December 1: 11:30am, 2:30pm, 4:30pm, 7:30pm
Saturday, December 2: 11:30am, 2:30pm, 4:30pm, 7:30pm
Sunday, December 3: 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm
Indianola Glass Creations, Indianola, IA | DEMONSTRATION
Come in and enjoy the world of glass. Indianola Glass Creations designs and creates colorful Stained and Fused Glass ornaments, suncatchers, jewelry and home decor. They will be demonstrating blown glass ornaments.
Offering: Stained Glass, Fused Glass & Blown Glass ornaments and suncatchers. Fused glass and china jewelry. Fused & Stained Glass clocks and home decor art pieces. Wine bottle tealights.
Price Range: $12 – $150
Times:
Friday, December 1: 3:30pm, 6pm
Saturday, December 2: 11:45am, 3pm, 6pm
Sunday, December 3: 12:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:15pm
Dakota Tinworks, Estelline, SD | DEMONSTRATION
Dakota Tinworks is a family-owned business dedicated to making and selling traditional tinwares and ornaments, hand-made exclusively by tinsmith Karl-Josef Schmidt, using primarily antique, 19th century tinsmith’s tools.
Offering: Handmade tinware of all kinds: tin Christmas ornaments, tin tree tinsel, tin tree toppers, tin cookie cutters, tin biscuit cutters, tin candle holders, tin candle sconces, tin cups, and tin candle lanterns.
Price Range: $5 – $150
Times:
Friday, December 1: 12:30pm (Making tinsel), 1:45pm (Making tin ornaments), 3pm (Making a small candle holder), 4:15pm (Making tinsel), 5:30pm (Making tin ornaments), 6:45pm (Making a small candle holder), 8pm (Making tinsel)
Saturday, December 2: 12pm (Making tinsel), 1:15pm (Making tin ornaments), 2:30pm (Making a small candle holder), 3:45pm (Making tinsel), 5pm (Making tin ornaments), 6:15pm (Making a small candle holder), 7:30pm (Making tinsel)
Sunday, December 3: 12pm (Making tinsel), 1pm (Making tin ornaments), 2pm (Making a small candle holder), 3pm (Making tinsel), 4pm (Making tin ornaments)
Quilted Gardens & Nursery, Des Moines, IA | DEMONSTRATION
Quilted Gardens & Nursery is an independent nursery specializing in unusual and collector perennials, hostas, trees, shrubs and conifers.
Offering: Hand made wreaths, swags, kissing balls and wood, straw and glass ornaments, table top trees, garland holiday optical glasses.
Price Range: $5 – $150
Times:
Friday, December 1: 1pm, 6:15pm
Saturday, December 2: 1pm, 4pm
Sunday, December 3: 1pm
Wild Cherry Spoon Co, Rock Island, IL | DEMONSTRATION
Wild Cherry Spoon Co. handcarves unique, one of a kind, pieces of wooden kitchenware along the banks of the Mississippi, in Rock Island, IL.
Offering: Handcarved wooden: spoons, spatulas, kitchen utensils, rice paddles, chopsticks, cutting/cheese boards, baby spoons, cheese spreaders, pizza paddles and pizza cutters, coffee and ice cream scoops.
Price Range: $5 – $75
Times: To Be Determined
Silent Auction Tree Participants Announced!
As a part of Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017, we’ve invited non-profit organizations to decorate a Christmas tree that will be offered during a silent auction at the event.
The following organizations will be decorating 6′-8′ trees on site that will be sold during the market and via a silent auction. The organization that decorates the tree will receive 100% of the funds earned from the auction from Des Moines European Heritage Association following the event, and minimum bids will start at $50. All items used on the tree (including the tree) will be given to the winning bidder.
Please plan to support your favorite local non-profit by visiting the Information Area at Christkindlmarket Des Moines and placing the winning bid!
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.
Volunteer at Christkindlmarket Des Moines
Des Moines European Heritage Association (DMEHA) invites you to be a part of something great: 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’re looking for just yourself or a group. Be sure to include family members, friends and others who could join you to make it more fun!
No-shows can cause great difficulties for the planning and production of Christkindlmarket Des Moines. 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. Those dealing with alcohol must be at least 21 years old when they report for their volunteer shift.
Sign Up Here!
- Christkindlmarket Des Moines Setup: If you’ve ever wanted to see how a Christkindlmarket comes together, now’s your chance! As a volunteer on the setup team, you will work on a variety of tasks from installing Christmas trees to assembling signage. From hanging stringed lights to decorating wooden vendor stalls. **Some lifting may be required**
- Vendor Stall Setup: Christmas markets wouldn’t be the same without traditional, wooden vendor stalls! We’ve teamed up with Waukee High School and Johnston High School Industrial Arts students who have pre-fabricated 15 wooden vendor stalls. As a volunteer on the vendor stall set up team, you will construct these pre-fabricated stalls for our vendors. **Heavy lifting definitely required**
- Vendor Assistant: Vendors will be on site all weekend long selling their products. As a vendor assistant, you will help them unload their merchandise, as well as with setup and teardown. You may also be asked to assist in other volunteer areas as needed. **Some heavy lifting may be required**
- Vendor Relations: Vendors may need to take a break during the long, 3-day event. As a vendor relations volunteer, you will provide our vendors with breaks upon request. You may also be asked to assist in other volunteer areas as needed.
- Non-Profit Tree Setup: Help non-profits unload and transport their supplies to decorate their trees.
- Waste Removal Elves: Help keep the Christkindlmarket Des Moines venue as clean as possible by ensuring garbage is placed in receptacles around the event site. As a waste removal elf, you will empty the bag receptacles into a large roll-off bin as needed.
- DMEHA KinderKorner Booth: Do you enjoy interacting with children and families? If so, this is the perfect opportunity for you! As a DMEHA KinderKorner booth volunteer, you’ll provide an European-centric activity for children of all ages. All supplies will be provided.
- DMEHA Information Area: Do you enjoy interacting with people? Why not volunteer at the DMEHA information area located in the KinderKorner. Help answer attendee’s questions, provide information on DMEHA, hand out site maps and entertainment schedules, etc. You’ll also be provided the cell phone number of a site leader should you receive a difficult-to-answer question. You’ll also be in charge of taking silent auction bids on clipboards for the decorated Christmas trees.
- Programming Stage Volunteer: One of the features of Christkindlmarket Des Moines is our entertainment stage. If you’re interested in music, performances and artistry, this is the place for you. As a programming stage volunteer, you will assist the Programming site leaders to ensure that performers have arrived, are prepared to take the stage and have what they need to perform.
- Beer Pourers: These volunteers will work with the Iowa Beer Bus team to serve beer to attendees. You will need to go through I-PACT (Iowa – Program for Alcohol Compliance) Training. After successfully passing the final test, you will receive a printable certificate of completion. The certificate is valid for a period of two years. I-PACT is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.I-PACT.com. The test takes 45 – 60 minutes to complete and can be completed online at http://iowaabd.com/education/resources as well. Please email your certificate to [email protected] or bring it with you when you begin your volunteer shift.
- Glühwein & Kinderpunsch Sales: There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to serve warm, mulled wine from a wooden vendor stall to eager attendees. This holiday tradition is a Christkindlmarket staple. You will need to go through I-PACT (Iowa – Program for Alcohol Compliance) Training. After successfully passing the final test, you will receive a printable certificate of completion. The certificate is valid for a period of two years. I-PACT is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.I-PACT.com. The test takes 45 – 60 minutes to complete and can be completed online at http://iowaabd.com/education/resources as well. Please email your certificate to [email protected] or bring it with you when you begin your volunteer shift.
- Christkindlmarket Des Moines Tear Down: As the market winds to a close on Sunday evening, we’ll have two short hours to make the magic of the Christkindlmarket Des Moines weekend disappear. Would you like to be a part of the magic? **Some lifting may be required**
- Vendor Stall Tear Down: As soon as the vendors have vacated their vendor stall that has kept them warm all weekend, they will need to be torn down, stacked and loaded by hand cart into a straight truck. Timing is critical. You will be led by a volunteer that has experience tearing down these vendor stalls. **Heavy lifting definitely required**
- Volunteer Relations: You will be part of the initial contact for incoming volunteers in Volunteer Headquarters. You’ll help greet and check-in volunteers, direct volunteers to assigned areas, and keep Volunteer Headquarters organized. You may also be asked to assist in other volunteer areas as needed.
- Non-Profit Tree Tear Down: Remove ornaments and lights from non-profit trees and help silent auction winners transport these items and possibly the tree to their vehicles.
Sign Up Here!
Afternoon Tea Along the River Wrapup!
We had so much fun taking afternoon tea like a Londoner here in Des Moines on Sunday, September 17 from 2 – 4 pm!
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
-Loose-leaf British teas provided by Gong Fu Tea
-Finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and petite desserts by Trellis Catering
-Live music
-Presentation on traditional British tea culture
-Contest for the best hat or fascinator (decorative headpiece commonly worn by Brits)
-Silent auction
SPONSORS
Des Moines European Heritage Association connects Iowans with European traditions, language, education and cultural experiences; and it provides resources and tools to other cultural heritage organizations.