It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially if you love to shop till you drop (and love a great bargain). There is nowhere on earth quite like the Big Apple and there’s no better place than to hit up the wonderful Christmas markets in NYC. Plan your year-end visit to NYC and be sure to hit these up. Dozens of pop-ups arise in neighborhoods everywhere, giving you plenty to see as you make your way to Rockefeller Square to see the huge lit up Christmas tree. You’ll delight those you love with the perfect gift while enjoying a one-of-a-kind experience. You can find something for everyone on your list even those impossible-to-please peeps. For example, that budding Martha Stewart will flip for the rare caviar that lets her boost her TikTok channel by getting in on the latest trend. You might even pick up a little something for yourself, like a new travel journal to record your experiences. The secret is knowing the best ones to hit. So we’ve got you guide to all things Christmas markets in the biggest Christmas area of the world – NYC.
Empire Stores – Brooklyn
Location: Empire Stores, 53-83 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY
WINTER by Empire Stores is a first of its kind pop-up and holiday experience along Brooklyn Bridge Park in Dumbo. It is a custom built outdoor, holiday shopping and dining experience in the Empire Stores courtyard with unique offerings and delicious treats from New York City-based vendors. Stop by to shop for fun, creative, bespoke holiday gifts. So if you’re arpund Brooklyn this time of year be sure to stop by. They are open through December 22nd.
Bryant Park’s Winter Village
Location: Between 40th & 42nd St. and 5th & 6th Ave.
If you only have time to hit one Christmas market in NYC, make it Bryant Park’s Winter Village, sponsored by Bank of America. The European inspired open-air market features artisans from New York City and around the world. Located along Bryant Park’s allées, plazas, and terraces, the Shops are housed in custom-designed, “jewel box” kiosks. Enjoy local crafts, artisan provisions, and exquisite gifts from around the world. While you’re there, also hit up the 17,000-square-foot skating rink. The shops are open through January 2nd.
Astoria Holiday Market
Location: 29-19 24th Ave. Astoria, NY 11102 ( at the Main Hall in Bohemian Hall, Next to Beer Garden)
The Astoria Market is one of the biggest year-round events in NYC, but it sparkles during the holidays. It takes place in Queens, not Manhattan, so use the city’s multiple public transportation systems to reach your destination. This market brings together artists, bakers & designers to showcase the creativity & talent in Queens & throughout NYC. Admission is FREE and they are open on December 10th and December 17th.
Union Square Holiday Market
Location: Union Square, E 14th St, New York, NY 10011
This Christmas market in NYC is well worth a trip, even if you call LA home. It features over 150 vendors with gifts to delight everyone on your list. Even folks who don’t want to visit one of the many vendors can fulfill their shopping urges. You’ll find scores of traditional storefronts, such as Petco, Whole Foods, Reebok and Scoth& Soda. The best part is getting there. It’s easy from wherever you stay in the Big Apple. Take the MTA Subway, 14th Street to Union Square, the MTA NYC Bus, PATH trains or Citi Bike. The market is open through December 24th,.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
If the cold bothers you, escape it with this indoor Christmas market in NYC, held inside the Grand Central Terminal, called the Grand Central Holiday Fair. It is one of New York’s most extraordinary shopping events and they have artisan merchants to local businesses. This year’s event features 36 vendors with giftable item offerings like homemade bath products, knitwear, jewelry and art prints, gender-neutral accessories, ornaments, and homeware. The Holiday Fair takes place in the stunning beaux-arts Vanderbilt Hall for a truly curated shopping experience. This place draws a crowd but you’ll have plenty of time to hit this holiday bazaar. The fair runs through Christmas Eve, giving you ample time to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
Edible Manhattan’s Food + Design Fair
Location: 145 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Foodies take note: here’s your chance to find rarities you won’t discover elsewhere. The Food and Design market features over 50 vendors with expertise in food, drinks, home goods, and design. This market promises abundant shopping opportunities perfectly timed for the gift-giving season. Come hungry and delight your taste buds with samples galore too. The market takes place Saturday December 9th.
FAD Pop-Up Markets
Location: The Invisible Dog Art Center, 51 Bergen Street Brooklyn, NY 11201
FAD (aka Food, Art Design) pop-up market is a must-see. They actually have two locations -one in Dumbo and Boerum Hill. But we suggest going to Boerum Hill which is open during the three weekends in December, with. the last on the 17th. Each weekend, the holiday market will feature a rotating roster of over 50 of the region’s most talented makers, designers and artisanal food brands offering a highly curated selection of impeccably crafted jewelry, apparel, bath and body care, tableware, handmade food items, home furnishings and more. Come discover unique gifts for everyone on your holiday list. These vendors specialize in fashion, art and design, making these events perfect for those buying or redecorating their home or prepping for a spring wedding.
Crafts at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Location: 1047 Amsterdam Ave. at 112th St, New York, NY 10025
If you like to keep the reason for the season in mind, spend your Christmas market dollars at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral. The space combines soaring architecture with intimate spaces that inspire awe and reflection. The market, is a fine juried crafts show that benefits the work of the Cathedral and its programs. Over 85 artisans will offer handcrafted, one-of-a-kind items in ceramic, glass, wood, fabric and jewelry. All the proceeds from this event benefit St. John the Divine. While you’ll find plenty of vendors at this event, the founders strive to avoid duplication and similarity of style, so you’ll be able to shop for truly one of a kind gifts. The market takes place the first weekend in December.
Uptown Night Market in Harlem
Location: W 133rd St & 12th Ave – Under the Arches.
If it’s culture and entertainment you seek, you must visit the Uptown Night Market. This celebration evokes the days of yesteryear when entertainers supported local businesses by playing for folks as they mix and mingle. You can dance the night away without spending a dime, as the event is FREE. This is also a popular food festival that spotlights local artisans, chefs, and entrepreneurs. This is a big market with over 80 vendors and 15,000 people in attendance. This market happens every 2nd Thursday of the month.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Location: 59 St, Columbus Circle
This Holiday market is a true favorite among locals! It is located near Central Park and has a European flair with over 100 artisans and designers selling their own unique wares, like special foods, handmade jewelry, art, home goods, and much more. Come hungry, because you’ll want to snack on the yummy food featured like tacos to fancy doughnuts and bratwurst. There’s also bathrooms nearby too. Plus, you can spend that sweet Christmas cash you received. It runs through Dec. 31, giving you ample time to go crazy with the green that came tucked in your cards.
Need more help figuring out what to get everyone on your list? Check out the Holiday Gift Guide for Every LA Girl!
