Christkindlmarkt 2026

Sweet Mylo are a husband and wife indie pop duo based in Nashville, TN. Their timeless style and melodically retro approach have created a dedicated audience and millions of streams online.

Indy Polkamtion, led by Bob Klemen, affectionately known as “Polka Bob,” is a lively polka band with 30 years of experience igniting festive spirits with classic polka tunes. Rooted in Slovenian and Macedonian heritage, Polka Bob’s journey began at age six, studying accordion under 1950s TV musician Walter Brown. The band’s polished performances have graced prestigious events, including Indiana’s Bicentennial Celebration and gatherings for state dignitaries. Known for their upbeat renditions and joyful energy, Indy Polkamotion is dedicated to the timeless tradition of polka music, ensuring every performance is a celebration that gets the crowd moving.

Hot Horns is an award-winning, internationally acclaimed muscial ensemble know for its energetic performances and distinctive blend of brass, woodwinds, and percussion. Founded in 1995 and led by trumpeter Glen Johnson, this talent group brings a fresh, dynamic sound to a wide variety of musical genres.

Indianapolis Liederkranz German Band is a volunteer musical ensemble dedicated to celebrating Indianapolis’ rich German-American heritage through lively performances of traditional and contemporary German music. Founded in 2014 as the Liederkranz Brass Band, the groups performs holiday favorites and modern German tunes at festivals and community events throughout central Indiana. The band brings authentic German traditions, music and Gemutlichkeit (cheerful camaraderie) to every event. 

Fort Wayne Tanzer is a lively German folk dance troupe dedicated to preserving and sharing German heritage through traditional dance and cultural performances. Founded in 2012 by director Patrice Fox, the group showcases traditional German dances, including the energetic Schuhplattler, featuring rhythmic clapping and lively footwork. 

Jay Fox & the Jammin’ Germans are a high-energy German entertainment band based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, bringing authentic German spirit and lively musical performances to festivals and events throughout the United States and Europe since 1978. Led by award-winning accordionist Jay Fox, the talented groups features accordion, vocals, yodeling, percussion, and plentry of traditional GErman flair, including cowbells and Schuhplatter dancing. Their diverse repertoire creats an entertaining, interactive experience for audiences of all ages.

Brett Hardin and Faith Marie are The 78’s! Using acoustic instruments and loop technology to present a wide variety of covers and original music, The 78’s pack small but play big! Featuring acoustic guitar,  bass, melodica, ukulele, kazoos and even a Fisher Price xylophone, these multi-instrumentalists use both vocal and instrument looping to fill the room with sound.  Drawing on the latest pedals and equipment available, their sound continues to evolve.

Brett and Faith met in the spring of 2013 and quickly discovered their mutual love of songwriting. After penning more than 30 songs together in their first year, they segued into performing live. Their desire to be more than a traditional acoustic duo propelled them head first into live looping performance. From their choice of songs to the quirky way they deliver them, The 78’s are a unique musical experience. Upbeat, full of smiles and melody, they will capture your ear and your heart.

Franklin Central High School’s Handbell Choir is back for it’s second year at the market. Led by Choir Director, Jared Yoder, these talented students bring the spirit of the season to life through the beautiful sounds of handbell music.

Ballet INitiative is a project-based dance collective founded in 2020, bringing fresh, modern takes on ballet to Indianapolis. Known for performances like their feminist 1920s Nutcracker and Happy Hour series, they blend classic ballet with contemporary themes. At the Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt, catch vignettes from their upcoming Nutcracker with a Twist. Ballet INitiative fosters a positive, artist-driven environment where local dancers, musicians, and artists collaborate to create inclusive, vibrant performances. Don’t miss this festive preview of their reimagined holiday classic!

Since 2005, Charlie’s Pocket has been performing a mix of the best cover tunes from the 70’s to today’s current hits, including rock, pop, blues, disco, funk, country, and jazz.  Throughout Central Indiana and beyond, the band has performed for weddings, nightclubs & bars, private parties, corporate functions, dinner dances, conventions, country clubs, community events, and festivals.   The band features seasoned musicians including female and male vocalists, guitars, bass, keyboards, horns, violin, and drums.

Rock Garage is an Indianapolis-based music learning center and community launched in 2020 that brings musicians together to form bands, develop their skills, and experience the excitement of performing live. Their talented youth and adult bands are bringing great energy to the holiday season as they take the stage at Christkindlmarkt.

Circle City Stompers is a vibrant blend of different musical styles and genres, with each member adding their own flavor to the mix. From funky basslines to soaring trombone solos, we create music that gets your feet moving and your heart pumping. Based in Indianapolis, our live shows are an experience like no other, filled with surprises and audience interaction. As a high-energy strolling jazz band, we thrive on connecting with audiences and sharing our passion for music!

DJ Helicon hails from Indianapolis and has been entertaining crowds of all types since 2001. Over the years he has DJ’d everything from private events to playing in front of large crowds for events such as the Super Bowl and WNBA All-Star game. Known for his eclectic sets, Helicon’s love of a wide variety of genres and artists comes through in his performances. Follow him on Instagram @djhelicon or visit his website for more info.

NoExit Performance — Indy’s most adventurous theatre company — with a tale from two “expert” storytellers uncovering the “truth” behind the myth of the mysterious German goatman.

According to folklore, a mythical demon-goat arrives every year to scare and punish those who find themselves on the naughty list. With its long fangs, menacing horns, and a switch made of birch sticks, Krampus rules the night. Our Krampusnacht (Krampus Night) celebration dates back hundreds of years to the towns and villages of the European Alps, and is traditionally followed by the arrival of a kind-hearted gift giver (Sankt Nikolaus) who arrives the following day to reward those who’ve been good.

Krampusnacht includes family-friendly programming (3-6pm), with a special presentation by NoExit Performance — Indy’s most adventurous theatre company — with a tale from two “expert” storytellers uncovering the “truth” behind the myth of the goatman. The show will be followed by a visit from Krampus himself—from a safe distance of course! After that, stay for our evening programming (6-8pm) — it’s not for the faint of heart!

History & Ways to Celebrate

According to German folklore, Krampus is the opponent of Sankt Nikolaus (also called St. Nicholas, which is how we get the name Santa Claus!)

While Sankt Nikolaus delivers gifts to good children, Krampus delivers punishments to the naughty ones. Those punishments can include “gifts” of switches or coal, a big scare, or worse– in some stories, Krampus has a big bag to carry naughty children away!

Krampus’ frightening appearance is a combination of religious and folk traditions. Many paintings and drawings feature his furry goat legs, monstrous devil-like face, and pointed horns. You can make your own Krampus mask at our Kids & Family Activity area.

DysFUNKtion Brass started in 2015 as a wild idea for a completely unique ensemble to compete in an Indianapolis battle of original bands. The crew progressed pretty well through that experience and penned an incredible collection of original music and brass-line covers. We decided that this ensemble had a message to deliver and we wanted to scratch out our own spot in the Midwest music scene. Since then the band has been performing regularly at bars, restaurants, street festivals, and corporate events around Indiana and Ohio.

The Franklin Central High School Handbell Choir, led by Choir Director Jared Yoder, bring the spirit of the season to life through the beautiful sounds of handbell music. Glad they could join us once again and share their holiday talent with our guests!

Indianapolis Liederkranz German Band is a volunteer musical ensemble dedicated to celebrating Indianapolis’ rich German-American heritage through lively performances of traditional and contemporary German music. Founded in 2014 as the Liederkranz Brass Band, the groups performs holiday favorites and modern German tunes at festivals and community events throughout central Indiana. The band brings authentic German traditions, music and Gemutlichkeit (cheerful camaraderie) to every event.

Adzooks Puppets has been delighting audiences at the Athenaeum’s Sankt Nikolaus Fest for years with their enchanting and imaginative performances. With over 250 shows and workshops annually, Adzooks brings the art of puppetry to life for nearly 20,000 participants across Indiana and beyond. Since 1995, their vibrant and engaging storytelling has captivated audiences of all ages, blending humor, creativity, and heart. Don’t miss this beloved tradition at Sankt Nikolaus Fest, where puppets take center stage to spark joy and wonder! Learn more about Adzooks and their incredible journey on their website.

Join us for the traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony at Sankt Nikolaus Fest! Sing along to festive German carols with Liederkranz Choir and members of the Liederkranz German Band of Indianapolis as we light up the holiday season. This heartwarming celebration brings the community together in the spirit of joy, music, and holiday cheer.

Step into the Court of Sankt Nikolaus, a beloved tradition where children are invited to showcase a small talent—whether it’s singing, reciting a poem, or sharing a joke—for the man himself. If they’ve been good, they might receive a special treat, but beware! Knecht Ruprecht is watching closely and may appear to remind little ones to stay on their best behavior. This magical experience brings laughter, joy, and just a touch of holiday mischief to Sankt Nikolaus Fest, creating memories for the whole family to cherish.

Hot Horns is an award-winning, internationally acclaimed muscial ensemble know for its energetic performances and distinctive blend of brass, woodwinds, and percussion. Founded in 1995 and led by trumpeter Glen Johnson, this talent group brings a fresh, dynamic sound to a wide variety of musical genres.

Jay Fox & the Jammin’ Germans are a high-energy German entertainment band based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, bringing authentic German spirit and lively musical performances to festivals and events throughout the United States and Europe since 1978. Led by award-winning accordionist Jay Fox, the talented groups features accordion, vocals, yodeling, percussion, and plentry of traditional GErman flair, including cowbells and Schuhplatter dancing. Their diverse repertoire creats an entertaining, interactive experience for audiences of all ages.

Vibrant and inclusive nonprofit, volunteer-driven, community based arts organization with the mission of enriching great Indianapolis by advancing access to live orchestral music.

The 65th Street Klezmorim is a traditional klezmer ensemble and the house band of the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. Under the direction of Dr. Shawn O’Connor, the ensemble brings audiences a spirited blend of traditional Eastern European klezmer melodies and musical interpretations from around the world.

Led by Dr. Shawn O’Connor, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Music and Theatre, this ensemble showcases the student’s energy, creativity and improvisational spirit of jazz while sharing their passion for live performance both on campus and the greater Indianapolis community.

The Shawn O’Connor Quartet is based in Indianapolis and is comprised of professional jazz musicians. Dr. Shawn O’Connor is a Yamaha Performing Artist and Vandoren Artist Clinician who plays clarinet, saxophone and flute. Dr. O’Connor is also Chair, Music and Theatre and Associate Professor of Music at Marian University.

Veterans of the Indianapolis music scene, Dianna Davis and Mario Joven perform Christmas music, traditional folk, jazz, and more all across the Indianapolis area. They love performing music out in the community, playing for festivals, schools, leading jams, and having fun sharing their love of music with audiences of all ages.

Geeks & Grooves is a community sadophone choir and performing ensemble of the Pride of Indy Bands, Indiana’s first LGBTQIA+ and ally instrumental ensemble. Co-founded in 2019 by Brian Gibson, the group specializes in geek culture and pop-inspired soundtracks

Rock Garage is an Indianapolis-based music learning center and community launched in 2020 that brings musicians together to form bands, develop their skills, and experience the excitement of performing live. Their talented youth and adult bands are bringing great energy to the holiday season as they take the stage at Christkindlmarkt.

Indy Polkamtion, led by Bob Klemen, affectionately known as “Polka Bob,” is a lively polka band with 30 years of experience igniting festive spirits with classic polka tunes. Rooted in Slovenian and Macedonian heritage, Polka Bob’s journey began at age six, studying accordion under 1950s TV musician Walter Brown. The band’s polished performances have graced prestigious events, including Indiana’s Bicentennial Celebration and gatherings for state dignitaries. Known for their upbeat renditions and joyful energy, Indy Polkamtion is dedicated to the timeless tradition of polka music, ensuring every performance is a celebration that gets the crowd moving.

A veteran of the Indianapolis music scene, Dianna performs her accordion in Indianapolis, the midwest, and beyond. A 2017 Creative Renewal Fellow and a five time Indiana Arts Commission Grant winner, she loves performing European folk music out in the community, sharing her love of traditional folk music.

Grupo Folclórico Macehuani is a dynamic Mexican folkloric dance group based in Indianapolis, dedicated to celebrating and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. Featuring both adult and children’s ensembles, the group brings the vibrant traditions of Mexican dance to life through colorful costumes, lively music, and captivating choreography. With a passion for creativity and community, Grupo Macehuani shares the joy of Mexican culture while creating an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.

Mariachi Sol Jalisciense is a dynamic mariachi band that brings the vibrant traditions of Mexican music to life. With powerful vocals, lively rhythms, and skilled musicianship, they capture the heart of mariachi, performing classic songs that celebrate Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Perfect for festive gatherings, their performances are filled with energy, passion, and the authentic spirit of Jalisco.

Since 2005, Charlie’s Pocket has been performing a mix of the best cover tunes from the 70’s to today’s current hits, including rock, pop, blues, disco, funk, country, and jazz.  Throughout Central Indiana and beyond, the band has performed for weddings, nightclubs & bars, private parties, corporate functions, dinner dances, conventions, country clubs, community events, and festivals.   The band features seasoned musicians including female and male vocalists, guitars, bass, keyboards, horns, violin, and drums.

We welcome the talented performers of Asante Art Institute to share in our celebration of Kwanzaa. The organization uses theater, music, dance and storytelling to celebrate African and African American heritage. Through its diverse programs, the Institute provides opportunitites for young artists to discover their voices and make a meaningful impact in their community.

Rob Dixon, a dynamic jazz musician and educator, brings his impressive talents to the Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt. Originally from Baltimore, MD, and raised in Atlanta, Dixon honed his skills under the mentorship of Atlanta Symphony clarinetist Charles Bradley. A graduate of Hampton University and an alumnus of the Jacobs School of Music, Dixon studied with the legendary David Baker.

Dixon’s career flourished in New York City, where he collaborated with jazz icons like the Count Basie Big Band, Tony Bennett, and Dakota Staton. Since moving to Indianapolis in 2003, he has performed with the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and The Headhunters, among others. Dixon leads the Indianapolis Jazz Collective and serves as Artistic Director for Indy Jazz Fest. He’s a dedicated educator, mentoring young talent through the Jazz Futures program and teaching at IUPUI and Earlham College. Audiences can find Dixon regularly performing across Indianapolis.