Elevate your holiday spirit with a unique wine discovery experience at RiverEdge Park. Delight in the warmth of imported German and Austrian hot and cold wines. Try various Glühwein flavors that are only available at this Christkindlmaret Aurora experience —hot, spiced wines that embody the season's magic.

Exclusive Access to the SkyDeck: Sip curated wines, paired with delightful treats while soaking in stunning views of the enchanting Christkindlmarket and Downtown Aurora. From this picturesque rooftop, marvel at the vibrant red-and-white striped booths and twinkling lights that transform the market into a holiday wonderland.

As a special treat, after your tasting, enjoy a complimentary Glühwein served in the exclusive 2024 Annual Boot Souvenir Mug at any of the bars downstairs! Plus, you can purchase any wines or pairings you love either on the SkyDeck or at the nearby Sweet Castle tent.

This VIP experience is for those 21 and older only—no strollers or guests under 21 allowed on the SkyDeck. Dress warmly for this open-air event, where heaters will keep the atmosphere cozy.

Don't miss your chance to sip, savor, and celebrate the season in style!

This event is 21+ only. No attendees under the age of 21 years or children in strollers are permitted on the SkyDeck.

The events takeplace on an open-air rooftop with ample covering. While heaters will be strategically positioned, we recommend dressing appropriately for the occasion.

Date:

• Saturday, December 7, 2024
• Saturday, December 21, 2024

Time: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM, 1-hour timeslots

Location: On the SkyDeck at the Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEdge Park, 360 North Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505

Age limit: This event is 21+ only. No attendees under the age of 21 years or children in strollers are permitted on the SkyDeck.

Your Premium Access Pass Includes:

• Eight (8) delightful tastings of imported European hot and cold wines, expertly curated by one of our lovely Austrian partners, WeinBauer.

• Enjoy delectable wine pairing from the Austrian Lodge and Sweet Castle, vendors at the Christkindlmarket.

• Receive one (1) boot-shaped 2024 annual souvenir Christkindlmarket mug.

• Redeem one (1) drink coupon after the event for a complimentary Glühwein, poured into your boot-shaped souvenir mug, at any bar within the Christkindlmarket Aurora.

• One-hour exclusive entry during a reserved timeslot.

• Access to the Skydeck rooftop with panoramic views overlooking the Christkindlmarket.

• Tailor your own experience by choosing the wines you wish to sample as you walk through the tasting event.

• Knowledgeable wine experts on hand to provide insight into each wine.

• Capture unique holiday photo opportunities and picturesque views of the Christkindlmarket.

• Participate in the voting process to choose your favorite wine.

• The option to purchase additional wine-pairing snacks to take home from the indoor Sweet Castle tent within the Christkindlmarket, you can also choose mail-order delivery for the wines you tasted.

What you Taste/Experience:

• Select a combination of eight (8) tastings from a variety of German, Austrian, and other European wines, including unique Glühwein flavors.

• Enjoy specialty wine pairings, including Stollen, Lebkuchen, Cheese, and Sausages. Exact pairings may vary.

• Explore featured wines such as Blueberry Glühwein, "Hugo" Elderberry Glühwein, Eiswein and many more!

What is Glühwein? 

Glühwein is a traditional and warming German beverage, often enjoyed during the winter months and at Christmas markets in Europe. The drink is a hot, spiced wine made by heating wine with aromatic spices such as cinnamon and cloves. Sweeteners like sugar are added to taste, and sometimes fruit like oranges or lemons are included for more flavor. Glühwein is cherished for its comforting qualities on cold evenings. 

At the Christkindlmarket Aurora, many guests enjoy a mug of Glühwein as they stroll the outdoor holiday market. 

Get in on the Excitement! 

Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Christkindlmarket Aurora at RiverEgde Park while enjoying specialty wine pairings and a captivating view of the market from above. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to partake in a one-of-a-kind wine tasting experience. Mark your calendars and join us for a charming afternoon of wine exploration!