If you're looking for unique gifts, you'll love the amazing Christmas Markets in New York City! These seasonal holiday fairs are the perfect place to discover one-of-a-kind treasures and enjoy a little Christmas cheer, and this guide covers all the must-see markets!
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There is absolutely nothing better than spending Christmas in New York. The lights, the windows, the food ... it's all truly magical!
And then there's the shopping! While there are many fun places to go Christmas shopping in NYC, the Holiday Markets are my favorite.
There are so many wonderful Christmas Markets in New York City, from classic European style markets that return every year to unique pop-up spots that you won't find anywhere else. And this guide covers them all!
These festive holiday fairs can be found throughout the city, and each one is a little different. Whether you visit one or stop by a few, you're sure to find gifts for everyone on your list ... and maybe even a little something for yourself!
Ready to start shopping? You'll find all details below, plus a helpful map and other Christmastime activities ... keep scrolling to read it all.
Tips for the Best Experience
Before you head out, check out these helpful tips to ensure you have a pleasant visit:
- Dress warmly. Most of the traditional markets are outdoors, and it can get really chilly. Bundle up! If the weather is looking grey, you may also want to carry an umbrella and / or wear your boots.
- Grab a drink or a bite to eat. The best way to soak in the holiday cheer is to stay a while! You'll find food and drinks at most of these spots, so grab a cup of cocoa or a snack to enjoy while you shop.
- Expect crowds. The markets tend to be very busy. Visit during the week for lighter crowds or just plan on being patient as you shop.
- Bring a reusable bag. If you have a long gift list, bring a tote bag. That way you're not carrying around lots of little bags all day.
- Check out the surrounding neighborhoods. Most of the markets are located in popular parts of the city with many things to see and do nearby. Give yourself time to explore the neighborhoods ... you'll find lots of tips below!
- Dates + times are subject to change. Make sure to check the websites I've linked to verify dates and times before you head out.
- Plan you day before heading out. If you want to hit more than one market, check out the map at the end of this article. That way, you can easily find the events which are closest together.
Best NYC Christmas Markets
The best place to go Christmas shopping in New York City is at one of its European-style, outdoor markets. You'll find these charming markets throughout the city, and they're the perfect place to find unique gifts at a wide range of prices.
I've listed the daily markets found in Manhattan first, followed by the weekend markets and pop-ups founds throughout the city second.
Manhattan Christmas Markets
Most of the traditional markets in Manhattan are open daily, which makes holiday shopping so convenient! And even if you don't buy anything, it's fun to window shop, grab a cocoa or bite to eat, and soak up the cheery holiday atmosphere!
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
When I lived on the Upper West side, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market was a favorite! With over 130 booths, you'll find a wide variety of gifts, jewelry, home goods, and art created by artisans and designers to peruse here, plus lots of delicious food.
Tip: This market is conveniently located right by the entrance to Central Park, so you can take a stroll through the park before or after your visit. It's also within walking distance of Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and more!
Where: Columbus Circle, which is located at the southwest corner of Central Park on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
When: November 28 to December 31, 2023 (Closed Christmas Day)
Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday and 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sunday. Closes at 4:00 PM on Christmas Eve, and closed Christmas Day.
Bryant Park Winter Village
The Bryant Park Winter Village is a perennial favorite! You'll discover over 170 artisans from New York and around the world selling crafts, food, and other goods in the charming glass cottages found throughout the park.
After you're done shopping, lace up your skates to go ice skating (it's free if you bring your own skates) or just watch the skaters fly by from the sidelines. You can also warm up in The Lodge Bar + Food Hall or even chill out in your own igloo!
Tip: After visiting the Winter Village, head to the front of the Library to get a festive photo with the wreath-decorated lions, then walk up Sixth Avenue to check out all the best NYC Christmas windows!
Where: Bryant Park, which is located between West 40th and 42nd Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues (behind the New York Public Library) in Midtown, Manhattan.
When: October 27, 2023 to January 2, 2024
Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday and 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Saturday and Sunday.
Union Square Holiday Market
Don't miss the Union Square Holiday Market, which has been voted one of the best in the US! This popular destination is always hopping and features beautiful gifts and wares from over 150 local craftspeople and artists.
Tip: There's so much to do in the area after you're done shopping! Check out the iconic Strand Bookstore, explore Washington Square Park, get a photo of the Flatiron Building, visit Eataly, and more.
Where: Union Square Park, which is located between East 14th Street and East 17th Street, between Broadway and University Place, in Gramercy / Union Square, Manhattan.
When: November 16 to December 24, 2023 (Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sunday. Closing at 4:00 PM on Christmas Eve.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
For the longest running indoor Christmas Market in NYC, head to the Grand Central Holiday Fair, which is held in a beautiful beaux-arts hall at Grand Central Terminal. The Fair is home to dozens of vendors and small business selling everything from original art to clothing, holiday keepsakes, jewelry, decor, and more ... all made in New York and the US!
Tip: The Fair is located indoors, so it's a great place to shop on a cold day. Make sure to check out the magnificent Main Hall while you're there (it's worth taking a tour if you have time), and don't forget to stop by the New York Transit Museum and Store to see the holiday model train display!
Where: Grand Central Terminal (Vanderbilt Hall), which is located at 87 East 42nd Street in Midtown, Manhattan.
When: November 13 through December 24, 2023 (Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sundays, and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Christmas Eve.
Winter Whirl Holiday Market at the Oculus
The Holiday Market at the Oculus is petite, but charming! You'll can browse about 20 hand-picked specialty shops offering limited-edition gifts, treats, and souvenirs here. You'll love the roller rink (purchase tickets here), adorable family photo opps, and the sweeping ceiling is a photographer's dream! Plus, it's located in a shopping center, so there are lots of other shops to check out, too.
Tip: There's tons to see nearby, including The National September 11 Memorial & Museum. You could also go ice skating at Brookfield Place, check out Wall Street, visit Federal Hall (Washington was inaugurated here), or if it's warm enough, you could even walk over the Brooklyn Bridge.
Where: The Oculus Center, which is located at 185 Greenwich Street in Manhattan's Financial District.
When: November 24, 2023 to January 21, 2024 (Closed Christmas Day)
Hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Sunday. Rink is open Wednesday through Sunday (last admission 9:00 PM). On December 24 and 31, rink closes at 6:00 PM (last admission 5:00 PM).
Weekend Markets, Pop-Ups + More
Not surprisingly, NYC is also home to numerous holiday pop-ups and weekend markets. You'll find these markets throughout the festive season. Check out my faves below, which I've separated by borough.
Manhattan Weekend Markets + Pop-Ups
You'll find a variety of weekend markets and pop-ups in Manhattan throughout the holiday season.
Grand Holiday Bazaar
The Grand Holiday Bazaar is another Upper West Side market worth visiting. This popular market boasts over 150 hand-picked local artisans and dealers selling everything from holiday decorations to candles, skincare, jewelry, antiques, chocolates, and more. Best of all, profits benefit four local schools!
Tip: When you're finished at the market, continue shopping (or grab lunch / dinner) on Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues. Levain Bakery (which has amazing cookies) and the Museum of Natural History are both right around the corner, too!
Where: Located at 100 West 77th Street at Columbus Avenue on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
When: Open Sundays. November 26 and December 3, 10, and 17, 2023
Crafts at the Cathedral
Celebrate the season at Crafts at the Cathedral, which returns after a few years hiatus, just in time to celebrate its 25th anniversary! This event features a juried fine craft show with over 85 artisans showcasing one-of-a-kind ceramics, jewelry, painting, and more. You'll love the spectacular setting in the center of the nave, and most of the crossing, of the world’s largest gothic cathedral!
Tip: Tickets are required for this event. Purchase them for one day, or for the full weekend, on the Cathedral's website.
Where: Cathedral at St John the Divine, which is located at 1047 Amsterdam Ave at 112th Street on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
When: Friday, December 1 through Sunday, December 3, 2023
Hours: Friday, December 1 from 12:00 to 8:00 PM, Saturday, December 2 from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM, and Sunday, December 3 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM.
Harlem Night Market at La Marqueta
The Harlem Night Market returns on the first three Saturdays in December! This festive event features over 50 Uptown-based small businesses offering foods, gifts, and live music celebrating the best of Harlem, the Bronx, and El Barrio. Check out the booths at the historic La Marqueta, then hop on a trolley to the Urban Garden Center which is hosting a Winter Wonderland with family-friendly craft workshops, Santa Claus, free hot chocolate, and more holiday vendors.
Tip: You can get free tickets here.
Where: La Marqueta, located in Manhattan at 116th and Park Avenue, and also at Urban Garden Center, located at 111th and Park Avenue, with a trolley running between locations.
When: Saturday, December 2, 9, and 16, 2023
Hours: 4:00 to 8:00 PM
The Holiday Market at the Museum of the City of NY
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Museum of the City of New York with this special holiday market! Shop beautiful gifts from 25 artisans, designers, and makers from all five of the city's boroughs, then check out the annual Great Borough Bake-Off Gingerbread House exhibit.
Tip: After you've found all your holiday gifts, make sure to head into the museum to check out the exhibits!
Where: Museum of the City of New York, located at Fifth Avenue and 103rd Street.
When: Saturday, December 16 to Sunday, December 17, 2023
Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
3rd and B'Zaar Holiday Pop-Up Market
3rd and B'Zaar is a pop-up that offers an affordable venue for local artists and makers, which I love, especially in pricey NYC! You'll find all things holiday at this unique space, including gifts, vintage (clothing, art, decor, and more), art, handmade goods, and more!
Tip: After you're done shopping, you'll love exploring the East Village, visiting the Tenement Museum, catching "A Christmas Carol" at the Merchant's House Museum, or taking a walk to Chinatown.
Where: 3rd and B'Zaar, which is located at 191 East 3rd Street between Avenue A and Avenue B in the East Village, Manhattan.
When: Wednesday through Sunday (Open Year Round)
Hours: 1:00 to 7:00 PM, Wednesday to Friday, and 12:00 to 6:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.
Artists & Fleas at Chelsea Market
Located at Chelsea Market, Artists & Fleas is a year round marketplace with over 30 makers. You'll find everything from vintage clothing to art, records, candles, jewelry, beauty products, and more. They have a rotating selection of vendors, and there's always something new to discover here!
Tip: Chelsea Market is also worth visiting (and festively decorated for holidays), and there's lots of other shopping in the neighborhood, too. Artists & Fleas is located right under the High Line, which is always enjoyable to explore.
Where: Artists & Fleas, which is located at 88 10th Avenue at West 15th Street in Chelsea, Manhattan.
When: Open Daily, Year Round
Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Brooklyn Weekend Markets + Pop-Ups
Kick off your holiday festivities at these weekend markets and pop-ups in Brooklyn.
The Makers Show at City Point
Head to City Point this holiday season for The Markers Show! You'll find a variety of beautiful and highly giftable artisan goods here from a curated group of local makers and artists. I also love The Makers Show's mission to amplify businesses owned by BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, women, and other underrepresented groups!
Tip: When you're finished shopping, head into City Point's lower level to check out the Dekalb Market Hall. Everything I've tried there, from pierogies to sweet treats, has been super tasty.
Where: City Point, which is located at 445 Albee Square West in Downtown Brooklyn.
When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, November 24 to December 17, 2023
Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Dumbo x Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market
The popular Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market in Dumbo features over 40 local artisans and designers selling furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, plus handmade jewelry, art, and crafts from local artisans and designers, plus fresh food.
By the way, the iconic Chelsea Flea in Manhattan, a year round destination for antiques and vintage shopping, is also run by the same group!
Tip: When you're done shopping, check out these other Dumbo holiday events, or head to the waterfront to visit Brooklyn Bridge Park, which has great Manhattan skyline and bridge views. You could also walk over the Manhattan Bridge or the Brooklyn Bridge.
Where: Dumbo Archway, which is located at 80 Pearl Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn.
When: Saturdays and Sundays, from November 25 to December 23, 2023
Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Fort Hamilton Tree Lighting & Holiday Market Spectacular
Grab your holiday cheer and head to Fort Hamilton for their annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Market Spectacular. You'll enjoy shopping for unique gifts, plus a tree lighting, music, food, and Santa ... make sure to bring the kids! Note: This event is free and open to the public, but you must register in advance.
Tip: After enjoying the festivities, you simply MUST head to nearby Dyker Heights for the amazing Christmas lights! It's one of the best things to do during Christmas in New York.
Where: Fort Hamilton, which is located at 101st Street & Fort Hamilton Parkway in Brooklyn.
When: Friday, December 1, 2023
Hours: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Wallabout Wonderland Holiday Market at the Brooklyn Navy Yard
Head to the Brooklyn Navy Yard for their annual Wallabout Wonderlond event, where the festivities features over 200 vendors, community partners, and beloved Brooklyn-based businesses. While there, you can shop locally for gifts, enjoy family activities, listen to live music, enjoy delicious food, and more.
Tip: The event is free, but you can get free tickets here!
Where: Brooklyn Museum, which is located at 200 Eastern Parkway in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.
When: Saturday, December 2 to Sunday, December 3, 2023
Hours: 12:00 to 5:00 PM
The Holiday Market at the Brooklyn Museum
Another event you won't want to miss is The Holiday Market at the Brooklyn Museum. This one of a kind holiday event features over 35 hand picked businesses and artisans, and it's located inside the museum's beautiful lobby atrium.
Tip: Wrap up your shopping, then head into the museum to check out the exhibits! With everything from history to modern art, there's something for everyone in your group. Bonus: if you're a health care worker or active-duty military, you and your family will receive free general admission (bring your ID).
Where: Brooklyn Museum, which is located at 200 Eastern Parkway in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.
When: Two Weekends, December 2 to 3 and December 9 to 10, 2023.
Hours: 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Fort Greene Park Holiday Artisans Bazaar
This new pop-up market is part of Fort Greene Park's annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration! You'll find over 20 vendors here for all your holiday shopping, plus live music and a DJ, free hot chocolate, Santa letter writing, and other kid friendly events.
Where: Fort Greene Park (Market is located Myrtle Avenue and St. Edwards entrances.)
When: Sunday, December 3, 2023
Hours: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Old Stone House Holiday Bazaar
The Old Stone House Holiday Bazaar is an outdoor artisans market located in the heart of Park Slope. You'll find over 40 hand picked local artists, makers, and small businesses at this fair, and the festivities will also include arts and crafts (ornament making), music, and delicious mulled wine and cider.
Tip: Spend the rest of your day shopping and eating your way through lovely Park Slope, take the kids to Superhero Supply Co., walk to Prospect Park, or wander over to nearby Gowanus or Carroll Gardens.
Where: Old Stone House, located at 336 Third Street, between 4th and 5th Avenues and 3rd and 4th Streets in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
When: Saturday, December 9, 2023
Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Queens Weekend Markets + Pop-Ups
Queens is also home to many popular holiday events! Here are a few you'll love:
Queens Craft Brigade Holiday Market
Discover the best makers in Queens at the Queens Craft Brigade Holiday Market! You'll find everything from artwork to jewelry, fashion, crafts, food, and more at this highly curated event.
Tip: After your visit, stick around and hang out in Astoria. There's so much to do in this vibrant neighborhood, including the Museum of the Moving Image, which is one of my favorite NYC museums!
Where: Katch Astoria, which is located at 31-19 Newtown Avenue in Astoria, Queens.
When: Saturday, November 25 and Saturday, December 9, 2023
Hours: 12:00 to 5:00 PM
Astoria Holiday Market
The Astoria Holiday Market has a little something for everyone. You'll find everything from art to jewelry, toys, chocolates, body care, handbags, clothing, stationery, accessories, pottery, and more at this merry event ... all from Queens-based artisans and businesses!
Tip: After you've cleared your holiday shopping list, grab a drink or bite to eat at the Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, NYC's oldest beer garden! When you've had your fill of beer, treat yourself to dinner at one of the neighborhood's amazing Greek restaurants.
Where: Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden (Main Hall), located at 29-19 24th Avenue in Astoria, Queens.
When: Sunday, December 10 and Sunday, December 17, 2023
Hours: 12:00 to 6:00 PM
Holidays Lights + Shopping Tours
If you'd prefer to have someone guide you around (navigating NYC can be confusing), you'll love this Christmas Lights & Markets Walking Tour! You'll visit four different markets, plus see other popular holiday sights. And check out these other holiday tours, too:
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour - The lights in this remote Brooklyn neighborhood are amazing. Some of the houses are truly over the top ... in the best way possible!
- Christmas Statue & Skyline Cocoa Cruise - This fun tour aboard a 1920s yacht takes you past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge. You'll love the wonderful skyline views and holiday music!
- Private Christmas Walking Tour - Enjoy a private nighttime tour of some of the most popular Christmas sights in the city, including Rockefeller Center, Macy's, and Radio City Music Hall. This is a great way to get oriented to the city!
NYC Holiday Markets Map
Before you head out, make sure to bookmark this Holiday Markets Map! I've added everything mentioned here, and you can open it on your phone to help you get around.
More NYC Activities You'll Love
If you'll be in the city during December, make sure to check out my guide to Christmas in New York City! You'll find tons of fun tips and helpful info that will make planning the perfect trip a snap ... from holiday activities to trees, Santa, hotels, and so much more!
And don't miss my NYC Christmas Windows Walking Tour. You'll love these creative holiday window displays!
Looking for more things to do during your visit? I've got you covered:
- Brooklyn Parks – Looking for things to do in Brooklyn? Then, don't miss my guide to the Best Brooklyn Parks ... there are so many awesome ones! If you’ll be in Williamsburg, make sure to visit one of my faves, Domino Park. This unique park was built on the site of an old Domino Sugar factory and features lots of industrial remnants.
- Central Park – No visit to NYC is complete with a stroll through this world-renowned park! My favorite time to visit is in fall, but it’s stunning anytime of year ... especially after a holiday snow (cross your fingers!).
- High Line – A visit to the High Line, an elevated park that was built on a deserted train track is never a bad idea. You’ll be treated to public art, great NYC views, yummy food, and more.
- Returning in spring? Here’s where to find the best Cherry Blossoms in NYC.
- Governors Island – If you're looking for a city escape, head to Governors Island. This unique park / National Monument is only a 10 minute ferry ride from Manhattan and Brooklyn. It's now open year round, and the Winter Village makes a fun holiday trip!
- Want more ideas? Check out my A to Z guide to visiting (or living in) New York, as well as my list of NYC favorites after living there for my first eight months!
P.S. Dreaming of Christmas in Germany? Check out my guide to the Best Christmas Markets in Munich!