Christkindlmarkt

The Christmas Pyramid

Experience the life-size celebration of German tradition and Christmas magic.

Ferdinand, Indiana

A hand-carved Christmas Pyramid with candle-lit tiers

German History & Tradition

Weihnachtspyramide

The Christmas Pyramid (Weihnachtspyramide) originated in the Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains) region of Germany in the 16th century, where miners would bring candles into the mines to symbolize the star of Bethlehem. Over time, the pyramid evolved into a beloved centerpiece on the tables of many during the holidays - a rotating tower of tiers, powered by the gentle heat of candles.

Each tabletop pyramid typically features hand-carved figurines depicting nativity scenes, village life and miners - a nod to the region's heritage. As the candles warm the air, the fan blades spin, creating a mesmerizing, peaceful motion that fills homes and markets with warmth and light.

Although these masterpieces started out small, life-size versions have been created to be displayed at Christmas markts around the world, making the festivities even more special!

In 2025, the small town of Ferdinand, Indiana, lit its 34-foot-tall Christmas pyramid built and shipped over from Erzebirge, Germany, for the first time in a breathtaking display of light, craftmanship and heritage! Continue below for more details.

Erzgebirge, Germany

Christmas Tradition

Our Markt's multi-tiered Christmas Pyramid glowing against a blue sky

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Ferdinand Christmas Pyramid

A Multi-Tiered Masterpiece

Standing proudly at the Wollenmann House, the Ferdinand Christmas Pyramid is a 34-foot-tall display of the town's history - from the arrival of Father Joseph Kundek and the early German settlers to the enduring faith and community spirit that built Ferdinand. Visitors can listen to an audio narration onsite, available through a QR code, or click the link below. The narration brings these stories of our founding to life. This stunning structure serves as a year-end symbol of Ferdinand’s strong German roots and festive spirit.

The pyramid shines nightly throughout November and December, filling downtown Ferdinand with warmth and wonder. The annual lighting of the pyramid takes place the first Sunday of November and is a ceremony that you must see! The town's German heritage is on full display during the evening festivities! More information on the annual lighting ceremony can be found on Ferdinand's Christkindlmarkt Facebook page as the event nears.

It also serves as a featured stop on the Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt route, where the sales hut at its base is used by local vendors during the markt weekend. Throughout the year, the sales hut is used for other vendors as part of town events at the Wollenmann House to foster community engagement with live music, food and more.

The Ferdinand Christmas Pyramid was made possible through the generosity of many sponsors, including a major gift from Mary C. Lange in honor of her late husband, Clem Lange, founder of Best Home Furnishings. A handcrafted replica of a Best Chairs armchair on the second tier serves as a lasting tribute to their legacy of giving. A plaque is displayed by the pyramid year-round thanking the many sponsors. Click on the link to the left to see a full listing of sponsors.

We invite you to experience the beauty, story and spirit of the Ferdinand Weihnachtspyramide — where the light of Christmas and the heart of the town's German heritage shine brightly for all to see!