Best Child Care in Chicago, IL
From preschool through kindergarten, we make early education and daycare joyful, engaging, and fun so children are happy to learn, play and grow. For nearly 40 years, The Learning Experience® has been...
Infants
Our infant curriculum starts with regular playtime including belly and music time, exploration, stimulation, as well as nap and feeding times that we keep consistent with your baby’s individual schedule.
Twaddlers
Our curriculum helps twaddlers explore, and it nurtures their increasing need to communicate. By this point in their early childhood development, twaddlers have expanded their language skills, and our curriculum helps to enhance their ability to communicate verbally.
Also offers: Toddlers, Preppers, Preschoolers
Responds quickly
Home based program that provides care for children from infancy through school age. Located near Jesse Owens Park and Caldwell Elementary Academy of Math & Science. Accessible by the bus stop at East...
Child Care Program
Infant Care Program
Also offers: Toddler Care Program, Preschool Program
Responds quickly
KiddoZone is a licensed home daycare that provides childcare in a safe, structured, and welcoming environment. Children receive personalized care, balanced meals, and Spanish-language activities to...
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Montessori school program offering care and educational experiences for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarten-aged children. Children are encouraged to progress at their own pace, explore...
Montessori Infant Care
Babies are viewed and spoken to in ways that allow them to be active participants in their daily lives. The deep respect this approach engenders is the start of self-love and self-esteem.
Montessori Toddler Program
Your child explores a world of expression and creativity as they choose colors and textures to explore. Art practice also improves fine motor skills, making things like gripping a pencil easier.
Also offers: Montessori Preschool
Responds quickly
At Stepping Stones Nursery School, your child's confidence grows through play in our home-like Lincoln Square classrooms. From our indoor gross motor room to our sensory-rich mud and art room,...
Infant Care
Our Infant Care Program is committed to making the first transition away from home natural and easy for both you and your child.
Toddler Program
Our Toddler Program is specifically tailored to the needs of your busy toddler. We lovingly nurture your child through important early milestones, from “self-help” learning skills such as hand washing and putting away their toys, to socializing and forming first friendships.
Also offers: Preschool
Responds quickly
Rayito de Sol is a 100% Spanish immersion early learning center offering programs for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years. Our curriculum integrates language immersion with cultural awareness, fostering...
Infant Program
Our infant program is thoughtfully designed with their care as our top priority, providing a nurturing and loving foundation for their educational journey.
Toddler Program
At Rayito de Sol, we believe in nurturing your child's independence, fostering their self-esteem, and encouraging their spirit of exploration as they transition into the exciting toddler years. Our environment is carefully crafted to support their growth and development in various domains.
Also offers: Preschool Program, Summer Camp Program
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Rayito de Sol is a 100% Spanish immersion early learning center offering programs for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years. Our curriculum integrates language immersion with cultural awareness, fostering...
Infant Program
Our infant program is thoughtfully designed with their care as our top priority, providing a nurturing and loving foundation for their educational journey.
Toddler Program
At Rayito de Sol, we believe in nurturing your child's independence, fostering their self-esteem, and encouraging their spirit of exploration as they transition into the exciting toddler years. Our environment is carefully crafted to support their growth and development in various domains.
Also offers: Preschool Program, Summer Camp Program
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Licensed school daycare center located in the heart of Chicago's Streeterville neighborhood. The center provides care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Caterpillar Care offers a variety of...
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Children's nursery and daycare in an experiential environment. Early learning program is designed to encourage independence and age-appropriate development through exploration and play. Collaborative...
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Children's nursery and daycare in an experiential environment. Early learning program is designed to encourage independence and age-appropriate development through exploration and play. Collaborative...
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Childcare center offering early education and enrichment with a focus on literacy, art, early academics, physical education, and social skills. Site utilizes a play-based curriculum designed to...
Infant Daycare
Infant program offering a physically and emotionally safe place for your baby to explore and learn about the world around them. Shoe-free policy ensures that classrooms are clean and safe for little ones to move around. Daily routine includes time outdoors, group time, and discovery baskets for sensory exploration. Trained teachers spend time cuddling, singing, and reading to your child.
Toddler Daycare
Toddlers are on the go, exploring and learning new things throughout each day. Classrooms are kid-size in design, allowing children to do more things independently, building their self-confidence. Photos of the children’s families cover the walls of the classroom, creating a sense of community. Daily routine includes: outdoor play, circle time, dance & movement, reading, art, music, and free play.
Also offers: Preschool Program, Discovery Preschool, Prekindergarten Program
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Childcare center offering early education and enrichment with a focus on literacy, art, early academics, physical education, and social skills. Utilizing a play-based curriculum designed to inspire a...
Infant Daycare
Infant program offering a physically and emotionally safe place for your baby to explore and learn about the world around them. Shoe-free policy ensures that classrooms are clean and safe for little ones to move around. Daily routine includes time outdoors, group time, and discovery baskets for sensory exploration. Trained teachers spend time cuddling, singing, and reading to your child.
Toddler Daycare
Toddlers are on the go, exploring and learning new things throughout each day. Classrooms are kid-size in design, allowing children to do more things independently, building their self-confidence. Photos of the children’s families cover the walls of the classroom, creating a sense of community. Daily routine includes: outdoor play, circle time, dance & movement, reading, art, music, and free play.
Also offers: Preschool Program, Discovery Preschool, Prekindergarten Program
Responds quickly
Brandon's is a warm, nurturing home where children are cared for like family. With over 20 years of childcare experience, Guillermina offers a loving, bilingual environment filled with healthy meals,...
Baby Steps Program
Individualized care for infants ages 4 to 18 months, focused on early development, safe routines, sensory stimulation, and support for physical and emotional growth.
Little Explorers Program
Individualized care for toddlers 18 months to 2 years 11 months, focused on early learning, language development, motor skills, social interaction, and safe, engaging routines.
Also offers: Little Learners Preschool
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
The Gardner School of Chicago Ravenswood is a NAEYC-accredited preschool and child care center located in Chicago, IL at the intersection of Wilson and Ashland. We provide early childhood education...
Infants
The Gardner School’s infant program provides a warm, nurturing environment where babies build trust, confidence, and early learning skills. Guided by The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, and Twos, teachers foster exploration through responsive, individualized care. Nursery suites feature personalized touches like individual cribs and family photos, while small ratios, a shoe-free policy, and flexible feeding and diapering routines ensure a safe, clean, and tailored experience. We maintain strong parent communication through real-time updates, developmental assessments, and shared moments via our app. Teachers use American Sign Language to support early communication and incorporate Itsy Bitsy Yoga to promote sleep, digestion, and well-being. By honoring each infant’s unique schedule, we provide attentive care that supports growth, connection, and development from the start.
Toddlers
The Gardner School’s toddler program nurtures independence, growth, and socialization in a supportive, engaging environment. Using The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, and Twos, teachers encourage exploration through play and responsive interactions. As children transition from American Sign Language to early language, communication is supported through stories, songs, puzzles, and hands-on learning. Group activities build confidence, social skills, and emotional development. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and app notifications. Monthly themes introduce colors, sensory exploration, cooperative play, and self-expression. Itsy Bitsy Yoga supports sleep, digestion, and well-being. By fostering curiosity and creativity, we build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Responds quickly
The Gardner School of Lincoln Park is a NAEYC-accredited preschool and child care center located in Chicago, IL, just north of Diversey Parkway, near Left Coast. We provide early childhood education...
Infants
The Gardner School’s infant program provides a warm, nurturing environment where babies build trust, confidence, and early learning skills. Guided by The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, and Twos, teachers foster exploration through responsive, individualized care. Nursery suites feature personalized touches like individual cribs and family photos, while small ratios, a shoe-free policy, and flexible feeding and diapering routines ensure a safe, clean, and tailored experience. We maintain strong parent communication through real-time updates, developmental assessments, and shared moments via our app. Teachers use American Sign Language to support early communication and incorporate Itsy Bitsy Yoga to promote sleep, digestion, and well-being. By honoring each infant’s unique schedule, we provide attentive care that supports growth, connection, and development from the start.
Two's
The Gardner School’s two-year-old program supports rapid physical, cognitive, and social growth through play and exploration. Using The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, and Twos, teachers foster autonomy, confidence, and early learning. Interactive centers focus on language, math, science, fine motor skills, and dramatic play, while group activities and circle time build socialization and self-help skills like feeding, hand-washing, and sharing. Teachers partner with families to support potty training when children are ready. Parents stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Children can also explore enrichment classes such as music, dance, language, and sports. Through engaging, individualized experiences, we build confidence, independence, and a love for learning.
Responds quickly
Kids’ Work offers quality childcare programming in our beautifully newly renovated center featuring indoor & outdoor play spaces. Programs range from infancy through Jr.K/Kindergarten classrooms, as...
Half-Day Child Care
We offer limited spots for Half Day Care!
Infants
Our infant classrooms provide a safe, clean, organized, and intimate learning setting for your baby (ages 6 weeks to 15 months old). Teachers work with parents to create consistent daily care routines, and implement curriculum activities to create a stimulating environment. We also incorporate infant sign language and babies partake in weekly Spanish and music classes! Diapers & wipes provided.
Also offers: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Jr. Kindergarten, and more
Responds quickly
*CAMP DATES: June 15 - July 24* Get a taste of collegiate life this summer at Loyola University Chicago! Our Chicago STEM camps strike the perfect balance between skill development and summer fun,...
Responds quickly
Childcare center and preschool program for infants through Pre-Kindergarten. Utilizes a play-based curriculum focused on inspiring a love of learning through a combination of early academics and...
Infant Daycare
Infant program offering a physically and emotionally safe place for your baby to explore and learn about the world around them. Shoe-free policy ensures that classrooms are clean and safe for little ones to move around. Daily routine includes time outdoors, group time, and discovery baskets for sensory exploration. Trained teachers spend time cuddling, singing, and reading to your child.
Toddler Daycare
Toddlers are on the go, exploring and learning new things throughout each day. Classrooms are kid-size in design, allowing children to do more things independently, building their self-confidence. Photos of the children’s families cover the walls of the classroom, creating a sense of community. Daily routine includes: outdoor play, circle time, dance & movement, reading, art, music, and free play.
Also offers: Preschool Program, Discovery Preschool, Prekindergarten Program
Responds quickly
Early education and childcare center serving infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Play-based curriculum focuses on early academics, literacy, science, social-emotional development and creativity....
Discovery Preschool
Preschool program designed to create a strong academic and social foundation. Teachers introduce math, literacy, and science. Activities also include music, movement, art, pretend play, and group games. Children become an active part of their classroom community.
Preschool Program
Hands-on preschool program with a strong focus on school readiness. Children are encouraged to think independently and express their individuality. Your child’s day is filled with creating, experimenting, and imaginary play. Curriculum includes: math, science, language, and spanish. Children begin to expand social skills and build friendships.
Responds quickly
Childcare center offering early education and enrichment with a focus on literacy, art, early academics, physical education, and social skills. Site utilizes a play-based curriculum designed to...
Infant Daycare
Infant program offering a physically and emotionally safe place for your baby to explore and learn about the world around them. Shoe-free policy ensures that classrooms are clean and safe for little ones to move around. Daily routine includes time outdoors, group time, and discovery baskets for sensory exploration. Trained teachers spend time cuddling, singing, and reading to your child.
Toddler Daycare
Toddlers are on the go, exploring and learning new things throughout each day. Classrooms are kid-size in design, allowing children to do more things independently, building their self-confidence. Photos of the children’s families cover the walls of the classroom, creating a sense of community. Daily routine includes: outdoor play, circle time, dance & movement, reading, art, music, and free play.
Also offers: Discovery Preschool, Preschool Program, Prekindergarten Program
Responds quickly
Early education and childcare center serving infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Play-based curriculum focuses on early academics, literacy, science, social-emotional development and creativity....
Infant Daycare
Infant program offering a physically and emotionally safe place for your baby to explore and learn about the world around them. Shoe-free policy ensures that classrooms are clean and safe for little ones to move around. Daily routine includes time outdoors, group time, and discovery baskets for sensory exploration. Trained teachers spend time cuddling, singing, and reading to your child.
Toddler Daycare
Toddlers are on the go, exploring and learning new things throughout each day. Classrooms are kid-size in design, allowing children to do more things independently, building their self-confidence. Photos of the children’s families cover the walls of the classroom, creating a sense of community. Daily routine includes: outdoor play, circle time, dance & movement, reading, art, music, and free play.
Also offers: Discovery Preschool, Preschool Program, Prekindergarten Program
Responds quickly
We provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children learn, grow, and thrive through play, exploration, and meaningful experiences. Owned and operated by a developmental therapist,...
Responds quickly
At Little House Daycare, we're all about creating a cozy and nurturing environment for your little ones right in the heart of Chicago. With a focus on personalized care, our small team ensures each...
Responds quickly
Speaks Spanish
Home based center provides care for children of all ages with night hours available. Program is located near Meyering Park.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
We combine the proven Montessori methodology with full Spanish immersion to create an exceptional educational experience. Children in our care grow into confident, independent, bilingual learners —...
Speaks Spanish
Children in Learning Home Daycare offers a bilingual curriculum. Provider has over 20 years experience in Early Childhood. She's currently enrolled in college to enhance her knowledge. Provider...
Speaks Spanish
Based in West Ridge, this home-based program provides childcare services for families in the northern Chicago area. The provider offers over twenty-four years of experience within a smoke-free and...
Getting Ready Care
A headstrong program designed to teach young children the building block fundamentals that will help ease their transition into preschool. Alphabet, numbers to 100, simple math, and flash card learning. Potty training assisted when the child begins to show interest and recognition of the need to go.
Early-On Care
A startup, basic care, and observation of the child. Routine feedings, naps, diaper changes, and nurturing to address the budding needs of the newborn.
Also offers: Toddler Tutelage
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
At Kemit Academy, learning is vibrant, creative, & fun! We believe in child-centered and play-based learning, and that each child is important, as well as their interests. Children explore and...
Child Care Program
Infant Care Program
Also offers: Toddler Care Program, Preschool Program
Speaks Spanish
Early learning program offering childcare services to infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children. Environment promotes optimal learning, growth, and development through a holistic approach to...
Speaks Spanish
Sher Bear Home Daycare is a loving, Christian-based, all-inclusive childcare program dedicated to providing a warm, safe, and nurturing environment for children. I have been a licensed childcare...
Daycare
Sher Bear Home Daycare is a loving, Christian-based childcare program. Licensed since 2007, I hold degrees in Early Childhood Education and Criminal Justice and am Illinois Gateway Certified. CPR/First Aid certified. We provide a safe, nurturing environment and teach children important safety basics
Infant Care
Sher Bear Home Daycare provides loving infant care in a safe, nurturing, Christian-based environment. Licensed since 2007, CPR/First Aid certified. We focus on gentle care, developmental support, and a warm routine where babies feel safe, loved, and supported as they grow.
Also offers: Summer Camp, Drop-In Care Program
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
BrightPath Child Care Center in West Loop, Chicago is now open. We are dedicated to providing high-quality child care, pre-k, daycare, and preschool for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Our center is...
Infants
BeeCurious experiences are tailored to each infant's developmental stage and individual schedule. Educators observe and intentionally plan for each child's physical, social-emotional, and cognitive growth. The program immerses infants in a language-rich environment, with American Sign Language introduced through twenty core signs to support early communication, reduce frustration, and strengthen the bond between children and caregivers. Sensory exploration and daily outdoor experiences extend learning beyond the classroom.
Toddlers
The BeeCurious Curriculum supports active toddlers as they develop increased mobility and begin exploring the world around them. Children engage in hands-on learning centers - dramatic play, blocks, table toys, art, and a cozy area - with toys and props that change regularly to reflect current curriculum studies. Language development is central, with children immersed in daily communication and supported by American Sign Language using twenty core signs, plus additional signs tied to each theme of study. Music, movement, peer interactions, and group projects are woven throughout the day, with outdoor play twice daily extending curriculum experiences into well-equipped play spaces. Process-oriented art and sensory experiences encourage creativity and self-expression.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
We assist busy families with safe childcare, innovative, explorative, and developmentally designed for each individual child. This is a place where kids learn, go out on regular trips and outings, and...
Children Count II Childcare
Infant Care Program
Also offers: Preschool Program, Drop-In Care Program
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Home based center provides care for infants and toddlers. Program offers small group care with a focus on sensory play. Activities include dramatic play, blocks, books, fine and large motor skills,...
Home Sweet Home Childcare
Home Sweet Home Childcare
play-based learning in a warm nurturing environment where little ones feel loved safe and free to explore. I believe play is a natural way for young children to develop important early skills. Children enjoy music art sensory play hand on activities that support development skills across all areas.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Facility offers daycare and early education services to children. Story-telling and dramatic play stimulate creativity and imagination. Circle time allows opportunity for peer interactions and...
Speaks Spanish
Program that focuses on academic development. Activities include art, reading, math, Spanish, technology, crafts, and field trips. Academic concepts are introduced through a structured curriculum that...
Speaks Spanish
Taylor Services Youth Organization provides quality after-school programs, tutoring, and summer camps for youth on Chicago’s South Side. We offer safe, engaging spaces for students in grades K–8. Our...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
In-home daycare cares for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. The curriculum focuses on children's educational growth to boost confidence and independence levels. The Center is...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Child care center offers educational programs for infants, toddlers, and pre-kindergarten children. Program provides developmentally appropriate curriculum and enrichment opportunities to support...
Speaks Spanish
Today Scholars Tomorrow Leaders Daycare is open Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–11:00 PM where we provide quality care for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Our program offers a safe, nurturing, and...
Today Scholars Tomorrow Leaders Daycare
Provide quality care for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Our program offers a safe, nurturing, and structured environment where children learn, grow, and thrive. We provide healthy meals and snacks, rest time, creative play, STEM activities, handwriting practice, and preschool-readiness skills.
Drop-In Care Program
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Play-based preschool designed to create lifelong learners. Program offers part time and full time schedule options. Child-centered curriculum includes reading, math, science, and art, with learning...
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Give your child an excellent start at Guidepost Montessori at Magnificent Mile. Our accredited programs for Infant, Toddler, Preschool & Kindergarten age children offer a safe, inspiring space to...
Nido
Our Nido program offers a nurturing, home-like environment where infants are cared for with warmth, attentiveness, and respect. Montessori-trained guides support each child’s natural development - encouraging movement, communication, and exploration at their own pace. With individualized routines and responsive caregiving, even the youngest children begin building independence and trust in their surroundings. Light-filled classrooms feature thoughtfully chosen materials that foster early cognitive, social, and motor development - laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Full-Time tuition listed. Part-time and flexible scheduling options are also available. Contact this location for more details.
Toddler
Our mixed-age Toddler program nurtures your child’s natural curiosity and growing independence. In a carefully prepared Montessori environment, toddlers engage in hands-on activities that build confidence, coordination, and a sense of belonging. Each day includes joyful movement, music, storytelling, and purposeful work—from watering plants to brushing their hair—that helps children develop practical life skills and contribute meaningfully to their classroom community. Along the way, they form friendships, strengthen communication, and learn to navigate the world with confidence. Full-Time tuition listed. Part-time and flexible scheduling options are also available. Contact this location for more details.
Also offers: Children's House Preschool, Spanish Immersion
Speaks Spanish
St. Paul Lutheran School, located at 7621 S Dorchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60619, offers a faith-based education combined with a rigorous curriculum for grades PK-3 & 4 through K-8. Known for small class...
Early Childhood
St. Paul offers early childcare programs for children aged 3 to 5 years, creating a nurturing environment that supports their developmental needs and prepares them for future education.
St. Paul Lutheran School Summer Camp
Our Summer Boost program is for five weeks with structured STEM learning, fun activities, and exciting trips and more!
Also offers: Camp Program
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Home based facility provides daycare and early learning services to children. Age-appropriate puzzles, books and games nurture enhancement of social, emotional and intellectual growth. Creativity...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Home-based daycare providing services for young children. Location is near O'Toole Elementary School and Ogden Park.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
For over 60 years, NPCCP has provided exceptional preschool programming that focuses on the whole child, fostering emotional, social, and intellectual growth through authentic learning experiences....
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We have been in business for over 25 years serving ages 6 weeks to 12 years. We use the Redleaf Curriculum and guidelines by The State of Illinois and ages and stages for assessments. Our locations...
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Early learning program offering childcare services to infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children. Environment promotes optimal learning, growth, and development through a holistic approach to...
Speaks Spanish
Cuppycakes is a preschool for 2-6 year olds. Our center is built on the idea of inclusion, representation, and celebration of diversity. Each child will receive individual and small group...
Speaks Spanish
St. James Lutheran School, serving Preschool through 8th Grade students, exists to educate, equip and encourage students in the light of Christ to love compassionately, learn confidently, and lead...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
A full-time home daycare center for infants, toddlers, preschool-age, and school-age children located on the Northwest side of Chicago (Brickyard area). Activities and curricula provide an educational...
Speaks Spanish
Guides
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How Much Does Childcare Cost in Illinois?
Curious how much daycare or preschool really costs in Illinois? We break down average childcare rates by city, age, and program type—based on real data from local providers.
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How to Find and Apply for Childcare Assistance in Illinois
Explore financial assistance programs available in Illinois, including childcare subsidies, tax credits, and free preschool options for eligible families.
FAQs About Chicago Child Care
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How many child care providers are in Chicago?
- Based on Winnie data collection, there are 3284 child care providers in Chicago and 290 of these child care providers offer part time care.
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How much does child care cost in Chicago?
- According to provider data, $1701 is the average monthly price for full time child care in Chicago.
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Do child care providers in Chicago speak multiple languages?
- Yes, there are approximately 205 child care providers in Chicago that are multilingual, offering care in at least two different languages.
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What are the most common languages offered by Chicago childcare providers?
- The 9 most common languages spoken by child care providers in Chicago are Spanish, American Sign Language, Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese), Polish, French, Ukrainian, Russian, Serbian and German.
More About Chicago, IL
Families will have no shortage of activities in Chicago, a city that prides itself on the many cultural attractions it offers. Families can explore the mixed outdoor and indoor space at Navy Pier or take a trip to the nearby museum campus to explore the exhibits at Museum of Science and Industry, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and the Field Museum. The Lincoln Park Zoo is free year-round including during the winter months and the annual ZooLights attraction. During the summer months, festival-going becomes a major attraction with music lovers flocking to Lollapalooza and city residents attending popular neighborhood festivals including Old Town Art Fair or the free festival Taste of Chicago. During winter, Christkindlmarkt is a recreation of the popular Munich festival and a must-see.