The boot is back, baby! At least, that's what we imagine Christkindlmarket organizers are shouting from the rooftops today. Hosted in Daley Plaza, Gallagher Way and Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, the beloved annual holiday market doesn't open until later this month, but earlier today attendees got a sneak peek of the coveted Christkindlmarket mugs.
RECOMMENDED: Everything you need to know about Christkindlmarket 2019
What's the big deal? Well, real Chicagoans know that Christkindlmarket has been producing keepsake mugs since 1996. Every year, the design changes, and the iconic boot shape was briefly retired in 2013 before making a quick comeback in 2015, much to the delight of diehard fans. Last year's heart-shaped vessels were cute, but they were no match for the classic boot.
This year's ceramic trio represents the market's three locations in Chicago (Daley Plaza), Wrigleyville and Milwaukee. Each is decorated according to its surroundings: The Wrigleyville boot showcases Gallagher Way and a street sign at the intersection of Clark and Addison, while the Chicago mug offers views of Willis Tower and the Picasso sculpture. In an effort to highlight the bazaar's roots, the vessels' interiors are painted red, black and yellow—the colors of the German flag.
When Christkindlmarket opens later this month (November 15 in the Loop and Milwaukee, November 22 in Wrigleyville), attendees can purchase a bundle of all three mugs for $20 or individual mugs at their respective locations. You know the drill: Collect 'em all, fill them with glühwein and be merry!