The Market at WinterFest Named Best Christmas Market in the U.S. for 2026
The Market at WinterFest has been awarded the title of Best Christmas Market in the United States for 2026 by Newsweek, securing first place in the publication’s Reader’s Choice Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores the event’s popular offerings and the high-quality experience it has developed over the years.
The accolade comes as the market is also competing in another national contest: USA Today’s 10Best Christmas Markets ranking, for which public voting is currently underway.
Coinciding with the holiday season, the city has invited the community to celebrate National Small Business Saturday. The event will be held on Main Street, between La Nube and the El Paso Museum of Art, and aims to promote local shopping. Attendees can find handmade items, prepared foods, and seasonal gifts from local artisans, producers, and entrepreneurs.
The Market at WinterFest operates every Friday and Saturday as a central feature of WinterFest, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. Organized by the Department of Parks and Recreation, the larger festival includes an ice rink, family attractions, live shows, and community activities that draw thousands of visitors annually. This latest honor builds on its previous national success, after being ranked the second-best Christmas market in the nation on the USA Today 10Best list in 2023.
Established in 2011 by the Department of Museums and Cultural Affairs, The Market provides a platform for local artisans, farmers, and artists to showcase a variety of goods and live performances throughout the holiday season.
