The Carmel Christkindlmarkt reopened for the 2021 holiday season Saturday. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the 2021 Glühwein mugs were not in stock in time for opening day. The mugs have been delayed due to lags at the port where the mugs arrived from Germany. This is a global issue, due in part to supply chain issues brought on by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Market officials hope to have the mugs ready to sell by Thanksgiving weekend.
“We are disappointed the mugs won’t be here in time for our opening weekend, but we know that our vendors are working hard to get them to the market as quickly as possible,” said Maria Murphy, CEO and Market Master of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.
The iconic boot mugs are a collector’s item for many, with each year’s edition featuring a new color. This year, the mugs will be a light blue color with a dove on the handle, to honor and recognize the healthcare and frontline workers working tirelessly to bring the country through the pandemic.
Mugs from 2017 and 2018 can still be purchased at the market. 2019 mugs are currently sold out. Glühwein will still be available to all who wish to purchase the drink even though the mugs have not yet arrived.
“We know so many of our visitors look forward to adding each year’s mug to their collections,” Murphy said. “We are hopeful they will be able to add the 2021 mug very soon, and we appreciate everyone’s patience until that time.”
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt will let visitors know as soon as the mugs are ready for sale by posting on social media pages and at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com.