The holiday season is here and there is no better way to celebrate its magical charm than heading to a Christmas market. With one of the most vibrant cities in the world, not surprisingly, New York City offers various cheerful Christmas markets to take in all the magical elements of the holiday season. So, if you are looking for a memorable and delightful experience, here is a list of some of NYC’s top Christmas markets.
Union Square Holiday Market
The Union Square Holiday Market is a holiday rendezvous for shoppers and holiday revelers alike. Launched in 1995, it is the largest and most renowned holiday market in all of NYC. Spanning the length of Union Square Park, the market features over 150 vendors offering everything from handmade apparel to jewelry, and holiday decorations to handmade toys.
The atmosphere is as merry and bright as one could imagine. There are unique gifts and holiday décor to peruse and take home, as well as live performances at the main stage all day. On top of that, gourmet snacks, hot and cold drinks, and festive holiday treats are available to snack on while enjoying the holiday cheer.
Open from the end of November to Christmas, the Union Square Holiday Market is an ideal way to get into the spirit of the season.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Step into a unique festive experience at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Located in Central Park along 58th Street and Central Park West, it is one of the most charming Christmas markets you can find in New York City.
Boasting over 100+ specialty food vendors and handicraft suppliers, you can take home handcrafted gifts, jewelry pieces, holiday décor, and more. Plus, you will find local Christmas specialties and beverages, including homemade sweets, roasted chestnuts, and hot-cider.
At the festive main stage, live concerts and performances will raise your holiday spirit even higher. And kids-at-heart can join special art and craft workshops for some DIY fun.
Open from late November to Christmas, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is the perfect place to find unique and delightful gifts for your loved ones.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Market
Popularly known as the “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Market is one of the most renowned Christmas markets in New York City. Situated in the center of the iconic Rockefeller Plaza, it offers a great blend of past and present, featuring over 130 vendors and live music performances to keep you entertained.
You can find everything from handcrafted clothing and jewelry pieces to one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Plus, outdoor eats and drinks like hot cocoa, roasted chestnuts and other warm snacks, along with gourmet sweet treats, are available all day.
The market runs from early November to Christmas, with the iconic Christmas tree lighting taking place mid-November.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
Qan inviting experience awaits you at the Grand Central Holiday Fair. Located inside the iconic Grand Central Station, it is the largest indoor holiday market in existence.
It offers a unique shopping experience, featuring handmade jewelry and apparel as well as one-of-a-kind souvenirs from local artisans. Plus, you can find delicious winter bites from an array of food vendors, including artisanal chocolates, gourmet cheeses and homemade soups.
A festive atmosphere awaits you—from the live acapella performances to the 20-foot tall Christmas tree. Open from late November to Christmas, the Grand Central Holiday Fair is an unparalleled festive atmosphere that captivates holiday shoppers.
Brookfield Place Holiday Market
A perennial favorite, the Brookfield Place Holiday Market is nestled in the heart of the Battery Park City. Offering over 50 vendors and artisans, you can take home unique holiday gifts, handicrafts, home décor, and more.
You will also find festive eats and drinks, ranging from warm roasted chestnuts to cocoa. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than to sip on a hot cocoa and listen to the harmonious carollers that the Brooklyn Place Holiday Market has to offer.
The market runs from late November to Christmas Eve. So grab a warm beverage, listen to a carol, and shop for some unique gifts. You won’t be disappointed!
New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
One of the most charming holiday attractions in New York City is the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show. More than 120 replicas of the city landmarks, such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, made exclusively from plant materials will take your breath away.
On top of this, you can also find an exquisite model of the Amtrak Empire Service Train chugging through the Botanical Garden in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. This captivating show runs through the end of January, with performances and live music taking place on weekends.
Finding the right gift for your loved ones is an important part of the holiday season and what better way to check out some of the best Christmas markets in New York City than to go on a heart-filled search. From the iconic Union Square Holiday Market to the charming New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show, New York City offers a variety of cheerful places to capture the true spirit of the holiday season.
Whether you are just starting your holiday shopping for gifts or you are already looking for New Year’s Eve revelries, New York City is the place to be—merry, cheery and full of holiday spirit.
