Category Archive Vendors

BySuzanne Hull

Quilted Gardens Nursery | #CDM2021 Vendor

Tell us about your business

Quilted Gardens Nursery is an independent specialty nursery located south of Indianola, IA. Not only do we carry unique unusual plants and trees, we are also a Christmas tree farm, known for fresh on-site made wreaths and greens and trees. At Christmas time we specialize in glass and Fair-trade ornaments, leather door bells and straps and unique gifts not just for the gardener but everyone on your list.

What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021?

The unique aspect of the European Christmas Market inspired us to want to be a part of it.

What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 and why did you choose them?

We provide fresh made wreaths and bundles of mixed greens grown on our farm, Iowa-made leather sleigh bells and hanging door bells, fine blown glass bird and other ornaments (over 20 different bird ornaments) and Fair-trade Peruvian gourd ornaments.

Anything else you’d like to share?

We really enjoy the festival atmosphere of Christkindlmarket Des Moines. It makes Winter a really awesome time of year.

BySuzanne Hull

TeaGschwendner | #CDM2021 Vendor

Tell us about your business

TeaGschwendner is a world leader in high quality loose leaf teas, based on EU standards, and US location owned and operated by local tea sommelier.

What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021?

We love the Christmas season, and our Christmas collection reflects the family holiday tradition of Christkindlmarkets

What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 and why did you choose them?

Of course the Christmas collection along with the most wanted Tea Advent Calendar

Anything else you’d like to share?

Only .002 % of worldwide tea supply is good enough to be included in our collection

BySuzanne Hull

The Kringle Man | #CDM2021 Vendor

Tell us about your business:

We have been in business since 2015, but have only started Kringle and Danish baking since 2018.  I am a retired school teacher that was looking to fill some time and it has turned into a full time business with the unique Danish Baking products that I have been marketing.  I enjoy the time in the bakery, but really I do this to meet new people and attend shows such as Christkindlemarket Des Moines.  We have attended shows in 6 different states with 2 more new states this year on our schedule.  The recipes are a combination of Danish Grandmothers sharing with me and searching old cook books and the internet to create the product that I market. 

What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021?

We were involved with Christkindlmarket Des Moines in 2019 and it exceeded our wildest expectations.  Des Moines has always been a strong market for us, but this was amazing.  The atmosphere and the different European cultures represented allowed for a great time by all participants, vendor’s and attendees.  It was as the Dane’s say a Hygge time: (pronounced hoo·guh). Hygge is about preserving happiness everyday. It is about slowing down, being humble, expressing gratitude, feeling safe and connecting with loved ones. Who wouldn’t want to spend a weekend with friends at Christkindlmarket Des Moines?

What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 and why did you choose them?

My newest creation is the Danish Pastry made with the puff pastry dough for that light and flaky experience while enjoying a generous serving of fruit sprinkled with baker’s sugar and drizzled with a sweet white and glossy icing.


Hot out of the oven the Danish Letter.  A generous serving of Almond Paste wrapped in the puff pastry dough, topped with baker’s sugar and baked to perfection.  A perfect companion to a great cup of coffee. 


Ready for packaging.  The Cream Horn is filled with my own creation of sweetness to drive any connoisseur of the puff pastry covered in baker’s sugar and baked to a golden color crazy.


The Apple Kringle shows all the lite and flaky layers of goodness surrounded by air pockets of joy.  The generous serving of Almond Paste blended with the fruit and covered with Almond Slivers and baker’s sugar is a treat anytime of the day.


The Kringle comes in two different sizes: Family size of 5 inches by 15 inches or the couple size of 3 3/4 inches by 10 inches. Don’t be afraid to get the bigger size as all my products freeze amazingly so you can enjoy some now and some later with coffee and family or friends.


We also have a topping of cream cheese icing that is out of this world good.

BySuzanne Hull

DamonLayne Woodworking | #CDM2021 Vendor

Tell us about your business:

DamonLayne Woodworking is an Iowa business located in Earlham. For the past 8 years, I have spent my free time working from a renovated Madison County, one-room schoolhouse to create beautifully designed items for your home. My woodworking products include cutting boards, cheese slicers, and amazing cribbage boards.

What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021?

I am excited to be a part of Christkindlmarket Des Moines because it displays the unique European holiday traditions and one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts. Talented artisans will be displaying their creations while families stroll along, listening to music, sampling the food, and sipping warm mulled wine. This is an amazing holiday event to have in Des Moines.

What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 and why did you choose them?

My products for this year’s Christkindlmarket Des Moines include charcuterie boards, cribbage boards, cutting boards, and cheese slicers. These handmade items make a wonderful addition to any holiday baskets.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I am happy to be a part of this magnificent event for a third year. The little vendor huts, the amazing people, the wonderful smell of food, and the lively polka music are sure to make this event a holiday tradition for every family.

BySuzanne Hull

Ruhland’s Strudel Haus | #CDM2021 Vendor

Tell us about your business

Founded in 2002, Ruhland’s Strudel Haus is a maker of fabulous sweet and savory strudel. We are inspired by the belief that food is one of life’s celebrations and is integrated into our relationship with the Earth and one another. Our mission is to provide a unique experience of common union. Our hope is that what we make will gather people around the table to celebrate the love and community found in family and friends. Our goal is to create food that brings joy and delight.

What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021?

We found out about this event a few years back and thought we would fit well into Christkindlmarket Des Moines as we have participated in a similar event in Excelsior, MN for the past 18 years. We were accepted into CDM in 2018 and 2019 and we were thrilled by the reaction of the public to our product and service. Love this event.

What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 and why did you choose them?

We will be serving our spinach feta artichoke strudel as well as our reuben strudel for savory offerings. Also, we will be preparing our Rindergulash hoagies. Our sweet strudels will include apple and strawberry rhubarb as they are our most popular strudels.

BySuzanne Hull

Christkindlmarket DSM Mug Unveiling and Open House

Be one of the first to view Christkindlmarket Des Moines’ 2021 Glühwein mug design at Jasper Winery on Sunday, August 22 from 2 – 4pm. The mug design will be revealed at 3pm, following a special announcement from Des Moines European Heritage Association Board President, Suzanne Hull.

Shop a mini market featuring foods and handcrafted items from Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 vendors. Jasper wines and Madhouse beer will be available for purchase.

A limited quantity of commemorative mugs are ordered each year, the first 25 attendees to donate $25 (or more) to guarantee their 2021 mug will receive a goody bag.

Learn more about Des Moines European Heritage Association (DMEHA), the non-profit that produces Christkindlmarket Des Moines. Find out about what we do and how to get involved.

Admission is free; donations accepted.

BySuzanne Hull

#CDM2021 Vendor Announcement

Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 Food & Beverage Vendors


An der Weihnachtsecke, Des Moines, IA

Shop the Christkindlmarket Des Moines store for your favorite European treats.

Offering: Advent calendars, truffles, Irish whisky fudge, Mozart kugeln, marzipan, liquor-filled chocolate, assorted holiday cookies, limited-edition Toblerone, Lebkuchen, stollen, stroopwafeln, clotted cream, shortbread, tea, Swedish lingonberry jam, German mustard and German honey

Price Range: $3 – $38

Pre-Sale: Bottles of Glühwein, 2021 Glühwein commemorative mugs, select food items. URL to our online store will be provided as we get closer to the event.


Glühwein and Kinderpunsch, Des Moines, IA

Support Des Moines European Heritage Association, the non-profit that produces Christkindlmarket Des Moines, with the purchase of warm traditional Christkindlmarket beverages:

Glühwein (“glow-wine”, from the hot irons once used for mulling) is prepared from red wine, heated and spiced with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star aniseed, citrus, sugar and at times vanilla pods.

Kinderpunsch is a warm beverage made from cranberry juice, apple cider, brown sugar and mulling spices.

Offering: Glühwein, Kinderpunsch, various liquor add-ins

Price Range: $2 – $6

Pre-Sale: Bottles of Glühwein, 2021 Glühwein commemorative mugs, select food items. URL to our online store will be provided as we get closer to the event.


European Imports and Iowa Craft Beer, Des Moines, IA

Support Des Moines European Heritage Association, the non-profit that produces Christkindlmarket Des Moines, with the purchase of various European Imports and Iowa Craft Beers. MENU CHANGES DAILY!

Offering: European imports and Iowa Craft Beers

Price Range: $6 – $7


Bratwurst Imbiss am Markt, Des Moines, IA

Support Des Moines European Heritage Association, the non-profit that produces Christkindlmarket Des Moines, with the purchase of a German-style Usinger Brat.

Offering: Usinger brats

Price Range: $5


The Kringle Man, Elk Horn, IA

The Kringle Man creates a light and flaky Danish Kringle using a puff pastry dough that is folded and buttered 81 times to give you a mouth watering experience. We add Almond Paste sweetly prepared and different fruits blended together to create an flavor explosion of sweet and flaky. A must have for coffee or ice cream or anytime.

Offering: Danish Kringle (2 sizes), Danish Letter, Cream Horns, Krispies, Danish Pastry

Price Range: $6 – $15


Sugarplums Cakes and Confections, Altoona, IA

During the holiday season, Sugarplums specializes in made from scratch, traditional, German cookies and baked goods. Try our Lebkuchen, Pfeffernuss, Springerle, Stollen, Spritz, Sentiment Hearts, Sugar Cookies and Cupcakes.

Offering: Gingerbread: Sentiment Hearts, Lebkuchen, Pfeffernuss, Springerle, Stollen, Scotch-a-roo Santa’s, cupcakes, Spritz, decorated sugar cookies, decorated Gingerbread houses, possibly some gingerbread themed Christmas ornaments.

Price Range: $4 – $30


Pickle Creek Herbs, Fairfield, IA

At Pickle Creek, we use the herbs we grow on our sustainable Iowa farm to handcraft artisanal olive oils and vinegars, soaps, salves, and balms using our own original recipes.

Offering: Herb-infused olive oils and vinegars (including the Apple Strudel White Balsamic we created especially for this event and the Prairie Fire olive oil that earned the 2019 1st Place Scovie Award for a Chile Oil), soaps, salves, salts, and balms that we handcraft ourselves using original recipes and the herbs and other produce we grow in our garden.

Price Range: $3.25 -$25

Pre-Sale: www.picklecreek.com/shop


Danish Windmill, Elk Horn, IA

Step back in time to our little Danish Christmas Market booth that will feature “Keepsakes for a Lifetime”. Experience a piece of Denmark close to home.

Offering: Scandinavia, Nordic and made in Denmark Christmas gift items such as Gnomes, Nisse, Elves, straw Ornaments, Cookware and prepackaged foods and glogg.

Price Range: $1 – $350

Pre-Sale: www.Danishwindmill.com, 712-764-7472, [email protected]


L&L European Delight, Chariton, IA

Ukrainian style food and gifts

Offering: Perogies, Pelmenie, cabbage Rools,Chebureckie, candys, honey, poppyseed/sweet rolls,gift items.

Price Range: $4 – $20


Ruhland’s Strudel Haus, St. Paul, MN

Handmade, sweet and savory strudel

Offering: Sweet Strudel: Apple, Strawberry Rhubarb, Tart Cherry, Raspberry Almond Cream Cheese, Blueberry Lemon. SAVORY STRUDEL: Spinach Feta Artichoke Heart, Reuben, Chicken Pot Pie, Mushroom Medley with Goat Cheese, Italian Stallion.

Price Range: $3 – $9

Pre-Sale: [email protected]


Top of the Hill Nuts, Grinnell, IA

Roasting on sight almonds, cashews, and pecans with cinnamon or maple flavoring.

Offering: Cinnamon roasted nuts

Price Range: Small $5, large $8

Pre-Sale: 641-990-2005, [email protected]


Fritz Toffee Company, Ames, IA

Handcrafted Gourmet Toffee

Offering: Toffee, Toffee Popcorn, Toffee Coated Carmel Apples

Price Range: $4 – $75


Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2021 Gift and Specialty Item Vendors


An der Weihnachtsecke, Des Moines, IA

Shop the Christkindlmarket Des Moines store for your favorite European treasures.

Offering: Steinbach nutcrackers, INGE ornaments, beer steins and glassware, Herrnhuter Moravian stars, commemorative Glühwein mugs, Christkindlmarket Des Moines merchandise,

Price Range: $5 – $350

Pre-Sale: Bottles of Glühwein, 2021 Glühwein commemorative mugs, select food items. URL to our online store will be provided as we get closer to the event.


Dakota Tinworks, Estelline, SD

Dakota Tinworks is a family-owned business dedicated to making and selling traditional tinware, ornaments, and other Christmas-themed decorations in tin and copper, hand-made exclusively by tinsmith Karl-Josef Schmidt, using primarily antique, 19th century tinsmith’s tools and techniques.

Offering: Handmade tinware and copperware of various kinds: tin and copper Christmas ornaments, tin and copper tree tinsel, tin tree toppers, tin cookie cutters, tin biscuit cutters, tin candle holders, pierced tin candle covers, tin candle sconces, tin cups, earrings using tinplate and copper, and tin candle lanterns. Also tin photo frames. Selected ornaments made from brushed aluminum (similar to the ones from from tinplate, but in sheet aluminum).

Price Range: $6 – $450

Pre-Sale: [email protected] (Pre-sale customers can contact me about products they wish to buy, I can send them a PayPal invoice to pay online, and then they can pick up their pre-paid order at CDM 2021 in person. Customers who do not pick up their orders at CDM 2021 will be billed for shipping and their order will be sent via USPS once shipping payment has been received).


DamonLayne Woodworking, Earlham, IA

DamonLayne Woodworking provides beautiful, handmade woodworking for your home or kitchen. Each item is eye-catching and will be a unique focal point in your home.

Offering: Woodworking: including cutting boards, Springerle molds, charcuterie boards, cribbage boards, lazy susans

Price Range: $35 – $225


The Permanent Collection Letterpress, Des Moines, IA

Artisan Hand-printed letterpress products made in Des Moines, Iowa.

Offering: Letterpress cards, art prints, cut-out paper prints of holiday trees, holiday cards, holiday paper letterpress coasters, holiday stationery, tote bags with holiday themes

Price Range: $5-50

Pre-Sale: www.thepermanentcollection.net


DSM Foundry, Des Moines, IA

DSM Foundry offers traditional German, art deco, and other styles of holiday decor made with modern technology.

Offering: Ornaments, Schwiboogen, decorative lanterns, wooden maps and Iowa themed small decor

Price Range: $2 – $100

Pre-Sale: https://www.dsmfoundry.com/


Three In One Artworks, Urbandale, IA

Three In One Artworks offers unique handcrafted, ceramic mugs, trays and ornaments featuring Iowa agriculture, Iowa history and Celtic themes, all perfect for gift giving!

Offering: Christmas ornaments, mugs, plates and trays, vases and bowls.

Price Range: $10 – $125

Pre-Sale: www.threeinoneartworks.com. [email protected]. text: 515-979-0238


Nymph In The Woods, Boone, IA

Wearable art to help you show off your style! Handmade from fused glass and wire wrapping, each piece is unique. Perfect as a gift to a loved one or yourself!

Offering: Wearable art made from fused glass and wire wrapping – Necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, and circlets.

Price Range: $15 – 300+

Pre-Sale: www.nymphglassjewelry.com


Quilted Gardens Nursery, Des Moines, IA

Specializing in fresh made wreaths and greens bundles, seasonal decor, Iowa made leather bells and straps, glass bird and Fair trade gourd ornaments.

Offering: Fresh made wreaths and Bundles of greens, Glass Christmas Ornaments, Iowa-made leather sleigh and Door Bells, Fair trade gourd ornaments and boxes, Straw ornaments, Ice Globe kits, Holiday optic Specs, Table top Christmas trees

Price Range: $2 – 75

Pre-Sale: www.quiltedgardens.com


Danish Windmill, Elk Horn, IA

Step back in time to our little Danish Christmas Market booth that will feature “Keepsakes for a Lifetime”. Experience a piece of Denmark close to home.

Offering: Scandinavia, Nordic and made in Denmark Christmas gift items such as Gnomes, Nisse, Elves, straw Ornaments, Cookware and prepackaged foods and glogg.

Price Range: $1 – $350

Pre-Sale: www.anishwindmill.com, 712-764-7472, [email protected]


Schanz Furniture, South Amana, IA

Schanz Furniture is a family owned business that has been making hand-made furniture and gift items for over 50 years. We are located in South Amana, Iowa.

Offering: Hand-made (Set of 3) Spalted Maple Christmas Trees & our Hand-made Multi-wood Christmas Trees in various sizes.

Price Range: $20 -$150

Pre-Sale: www.schanzfurniture.com 319-622-3529 [email protected]


TeaGschwendner, Chicago, IL

Explore the world of tea with TeaGschwendner. A local retailer locally owned and operated by Tea Sommelier. With over 300 teas to offer you will find your favorite holiday tea. A Christmas tea is a must to try.

Offering: Loose leaf tea and tea ware, German honey

Price Range: $5 – 100

Pre-Sale: www.tgtea.com


Winterborn Alpaca, High River, AB, Canada

Winterborn Alpaca designs winter wear derived from premium alpaca fleece.

Offering: Hand-woven alpaca scarves, socks, mittens, beanies, and alpaca stuffies.

Price Range: $20 – $85

Pre-Sale: www.winterbornalpaca.com


Pickle Creek Herbs, Fairfield, IA

At Pickle Creek, we use the herbs we grow on our sustainable Iowa farm to handcraft artisanal olive oils and vinegars, soaps, salves, and balms using our own original recipes.

Offering: Herb-infused olive oils and vinegars (including the Apple Strudel White Balsamic we created especially for this event and the Prairie Fire olive oil that earned the 2019 1st Place Scovie Award for a Chile Oil), soaps, salves, salts, and balms that we handcraft ourselves using original recipes and the herbs and other produce we grow in our garden.

Price Range: $3.25 – $25

Pre-Sale: www.picklecreek.com/shop


Pam Hyde Pottery, Des Moines, IA

Handmade pottery for everyday use. Thrown, glazed and fired in my home studio. Mugs, bowls, plates, spoon rests, utensil holders, vases, butter keepers, pour overs, votive candle holders, and, of course, ornaments!

Offering: Mugs, bowls, yarn bowls, butter keepers, spoon rests, utensil holders, garlic grater plates, vases, ornaments, votive candle holders, coffee pour overs.

Price Range: $8 – $80


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

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.