Arlington Hts., Schaumburg hold their own versions of ChristkindlMarkt

Black Friday saw the beginning of hardcore Christmas shopping.

But for those who prefer to usher in the Christmas season in softer fashion, nothing could top ChristkindlMarkt.

Originating in Germany and Austria, ChristkindlMarkt is a street market held during the four weeks preceding Christmas. Two villages in the Northwest suburbs, Arlington Heights and Schaumburg, presented their versions of the tradition this weekend.

As Buffalo Grove resident Karl Hoegen, who hails from Germany, pointed out, the German celebrations are generally held "outside in the cold." But Hoegen wasn't one to complain about the heated tents at the Arlington Heights celebration.

"It's a little bit more convenient here," he said.

Visitors in Arlington Heights donned Alpine hats and listened to German bands in the Musikplatz while munching on bratwurst and gingerbread biscuits straight from Stuttgart.

Among those enjoying themselves were John and Bonnie Nelligan of Mount Prospect. This was a return trip for the couple, John said, adding, "I never met a brat I didn't like, (and) I love the German bands."

In the craft tent, Jan Tossman of Arlington Heights was hawking candles made by her son Kevin Lemel. She said he specializes in candles with fragrances that appeal to both men and women, including one combining Nigerian tobacco and sandalwood.

The Schaumburg celebration also was held in tents but had the feeling of an open-air market. That's because the wind was free to enter.

Still, the celebration had a warm feeling, with a caricature artist, a face painter and wood carvers among the artists offering their talents.

In the craft tent, June Anderson was selling products from a variety of countries, including lacquer boxes made in Russia. Another toy sold by Anderson allowed the user to make the heads of a group of wooden hens start "pecking" by manipulating a ball and strings.

"The reason I like shopping here is because they have more unique items, not just what the department stores have," said Wheeling resident Mickey Benvenuti, who found inspiration for a future gift in a mother-of-pearl watch.