I love New York during the holidays, and if you happen to be visiting in December, I know you will, too! As a local, it is my duty to give you the low down on all the spectacular Christmas Markets in New York City you should visit!
And while they are not as done up as European Christmas markets, NYC does a really great job getting into the holiday spirit and making you feel all the Christmas vibes.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (Bryant Park Christmas Market)
One of my hands-down favorite Christmas markets in NYC is Bryant Park Winter Village. Not only do they have European-inspired open-air markets to shop, but they also have dozens of pop-up food stalls, an ice skating rink, and one of the best Christmas Trees.
The ice skating rink opens during the Fall, and the Christmas market shops all start opening up as well. Oh, after you’re done shopping, you can even rent a “Cozy Igloo,” for some food! I would recommend reserving the igloos in advance if it is something you want to do.
Or you can warm up at The Lodge Bar + Food Hall. It is both indoors and outdoors and gives off all the holiday vibes. I highly recommend getting hot chocolate over here! Plus, Byrant Park itself is such an iconic place. It is located right next to the New York Public Library, the Empire State Building, and even Grand Central!
Tip: This is probably the most crowded market. Come early or late at night if you want to avoid crowds.
Union Square Christmas Market
Another great Christmas market is the Union Square Holiday Market, presented by Urbanspace. In fact, this market has been voted one of the best in the USA.
With around 185 vendors, you will find artisans, local businesses, and holiday food to enjoy! This is also a European-style open-air market, and it is very easy to get to since Union Square is a major subway stop.
It will be open until Christmas Eve, and Rolf’s, the famous German restaurant decked in Christmas decorations, is pretty close by.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
When visiting the city during the holidays, there is no way you should miss a stroll through Central Park or even ice skating at Wollman Rink. And while you’re in the area, I highly recommend stopping by the Columbus Circle Holiday Market!
Again, you will find European-style green booths with local goods, Christmas ornaments, Christmas-like food, custom goods, and more! There are over 100 booths to stroll through. Plus, you will also be right in the area of some major museums like the MET and Rockefeller Center, the holy grail of Christmas in New York.
Holiday Market at the Oculus at Westfield World Trade Center
If the weather is really cold or just lousy, consider visiting the Westfield World Trade Center Holiday Market, which is located right inside the Oculus! I love the Oculus any time of the year, but the holidays are really nice here since it is warm!
They do a really lovely Christmas display, making for great photo-ops, along with having a handful of Christmas goodies to go shopping for!
What is really cool about this Christmas Market is that it’s located in an already iconic landmark. On top of that, inside is a whole shopping mall, so there are dozens of shops and even places to grab food. Additionally, it is a transport hub, so getting here is really easy!
Grand Central Terminal 2024 Holiday Fair
Aside from being the second most visited place in New York City after Times Square, Grand Central Terminal is the perfect Christmas Market to visit during your trip!
The Grand Central Holiday Fair is actually the city’s longest-running indoor fair event. With 40 local vendors with a variety of goodies, you can enjoy browsing, shopping, and even tasting your way through this iconic landmark.
The fair event runs for 6 weeks and is also the perfect escape from the cold weather! While you’re in the area, consider heading to the top of the Summit One Vanderbilt, one of the best observation decks in the city!
This market will start on November 11th and run until December 24th (closed on Thanksgiving).
Chelsea Market During the Holidays
So, technically, the Chelsea Market is not a Christmas Market, but they put up some really nice Christmas displays. While browsing this indoor market, you will find local artisan stores and food vendors that scream Christmas cheer.
I believe it is worth a visit on any New York itinerary if you’re interested in doing something a little less touristy, as this market is beloved by locals.
Hudson Yards Holiday Shops
Similar to the Chelsea Markets, the Hudson Yards do not have annual Christmas markets, but they have some of the best Christmas light decorations in all of Manhattan. Oh, and the Hudson Yards is indeed a shopping mall with tons of Christmas shopping to be had.
This is also where you can visit the famous Edge observation deck!
Furthermore, the shops often have events going on during the holidays, including cookie decorations and dancing (usually Saturday).
Tips to Know Before Visiting
Now that you know some of the best Christmas Markets to visit, here are some travel tips to keep in mind while browsing and shopping around!
- If you know you want to buy a handful of things, bring your own cloth bag/backpack to hold your items. It will be annoying having a bunch of little bags while touring around the city.
- Most of the Christmas Markets are outside, so make sure to dress in layers!
- Some shops hold the same items, but at different prices, so shop around a little if you’re on a budget.
- Make sure to enjoy other nearby attractions while you’re in the area!
- While most shops will accept credit cards, it is not a bad idea to have some cash. Go to official bank ATMs for this.
- I have never had a problem with pickpocketing in the city, but always be careful!
- Don’t forget to try some hot chocolate! Seriously!
Wrap-up
This concludes some of the best Christmas Markets to enjoy in the Big Apple! I hope you have the best time exploring New York’s version of holiday shops and get some great deals for the holiday season!
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