16 of the Best Christmas Markets in New York City to Visit in 2026
Wandering which Christmas Markets to visit during your trip to New York? As Christmas Market experts, we have got you covered!
Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year. And heading out to a Christmas Market is something I look forward to every year, no matter where we happen to be travelling.
From the amazing decorations to the delicious aromas wafting through the air, the music, the lights, and of course, the wonderful treasures you can find, it’s impossible not to get into the holiday spirit when you’re standing in the middle of a Christmas Market!
And NYC definitely one city that knows how to do a holiday market!
We have put together a list of the best Christmas Markets in New York City that you need to visit.
Our Favorite Christmas Markets in NYC
I’m not gonna lie, it was difficult to decide which Christmas Markets were our favourites during our last visit to New York City.
But at the end of the day, the Manhattan Markets won hands down.
The first 4 on our list below were the easiest for us to access (since we were staying in Manhattan).
And for the most part, they were also the largest with the most variety.
We did enjoy some of the smaller markets as well, so definitely don’t shy away from visiting those!
In fact, we encourage you to visit each of the NYC Christmas Markets and make an informed decision as to which are your favourites!
Of course, there are actually several guided tours available that will take you around the city.
Take a guided Christmas Market and Lights walking tour to visit the best Holiday Markets in New York.
You could even try a Dyker Heights Christmas Lights & Bryant Winter Village walking tour which will focus on one area in New York specifically.
🎄 Check out all festive guided tours available in New York City here.
Manhattan Christmas Markets
The following markets are located in Manhattan, with several being within walking distance or a short train ride of one another.
1. Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is not only the first Christmas Market to kick off the season, but it also has the distinction of being the longest-running holiday market in NYC.
Opening from late October until New Year’s Day, Bryant Park is also considered one of the most festive Christmas Markets in the city.
Debuting in 2002, the Winter Village in Bryant Park not only has a ton of seasonal ambiance, but is also home to an ice skating rink with free admission, a huge Christmas tree, holiday stands offering seasonal bites and beverages, local crafts, jewelry, clothes, and of course, every kind of Christmas decor you can imagine.
2. Union Square Holiday Market
As one of the largest Christmas Markets in New York City, Union Square Holiday Market boasts more than 150 registered vendors, both local and international, occupying a total of 100 red-and-white-striped stalls.
The market has actually been running for over 25 years and was initially modelled after traditional European Christmas Markets in its layout and style.
From incredible food to Christmas decor, housewares, handcrafted items, clothing and so much more, you will surely find the perfect holiday gifts for everyone on your list.
In fact, Union Square Holiday Market has grown quite a bit over the years and now also features a kid’s art studio and a warming station for when the New York chilly weather sets in.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Columbus Circle Holiday Market is not only one of the best but also the largest holiday markets in NYC, with approximately 100 decorated stalls.
Located at Central Park’s southwest corner, pretty close to the iconic Wollmann ice skating rink, in fact, this outdoor Christmas Market is pretty reminiscent of the markets you would find all over Germany.
And what better way to end a perfect wintery stroll through Central Park than to enjoy all this amazing holiday market has to offer!
From hot mulled wine to handmade crafts, delicious food, and one-of-a-kind ornaments, you are sure to find that unique gift for someone special on your holiday list.
4. Grand Central Holiday Fair
The Grand Central Holiday Fair is arguably one of the busiest Christmas Markets in New York City.
With more than one million shoppers passing through the holiday fair each day, it’s hard to deny its popularity.
Located in the iconic Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Station, one of the reasons this month-long holiday market is so popular, is that it is indoors.
Many people prefer to stay warm and cozy when they shop, rather than be exposed to the plunging temperatures of a New York winter.
Of course, the fact that the vendors are carefully selected to guarantee only the best experience for their visitors is also a definite plus.
With a wide selection of one-of-a-kind items, delicious treats, Christmas decor, clothing, and handcrafted items by local vendors, shopping at this Christmas market will definitely get you into the holiday spirit.
🚕 Need a way to get into the city? Book your Airport to Manhattan Shuttle.
5. Artists and Fleas at Chelsea Market
Held on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year, the Chelsea Flea is particularly popular around the holidays.
With up to 100 vendors set up along a stretch of West 25th Street, there are countless treasures to uncover.
The items here are definitely ‘funkier’ than you find at some of the other holiday markets.
But that is because they are all made by independent designers, emerging artists, and vintage collectors.
Like any good flea market, it’s all in the digging—and with up to 100 vendors set up along this stretch of West 25th Street, there are countless treasures to uncover every Saturday and Sunday.
From clothing to jewelry, vintage furniture and more, it’s all in the digging! You just don’t know what unique or hard-to-find item you may discover.
When you’re shopped out, head across the street to the French bakery Maman.
There, you can browse their incredible pastries or treat yourself to a seasonal gingerbread latte or hot chocolate!
6. Holiday Market at the Oculus at Westfield World Trade Center
Located right next to the One World Trade Center, the Oculus Mall is not only one of the most unique architectural features in the city, but also one of the most popular attractions in NYC.
What many people may not be aware of is that every year, the main concourse of the mall transforms into one of the nicest little pop-up Christmas Markets in New York City.
The market consists of a path that leads you through a little winter village featuring over 20 specialty shops filled with limited-edition gifts, snacks and souvenirs.
But what really sets the Oculus apart from other New York City Christmas Markets is the beautiful and festive decorations on display.
As if the Oculus wasn’t already one of the most beautiful photo ops in the city already!
From a clock tower to a chrome snowman, giant ornaments, Christmas trees, lights, and a lush winter landscape, the photo opportunities are endless.
Trust us, you will NOT have a problem getting that perfect Instagrammable shot here!
7. Turnstyle Holiday Market
Featuring 39 eateries and several pop-ups, the Underground market named “Turnstyle” is definitely a unique place to shop.
For the holiday season, you will find several seasonal shops that will help you check off your Christmas list.
Although this market is perfect for those who want to stay indoors, compared to other holiday markets in New York, this one is not as festive.
On a positive note, you won’t need to swipe your MetroCard to visit the Turnstyle Holiday Market in NYC.
8. Grand Holiday Bazaar
During the holiday season, Grand Bazaar is home to a seasonal version of its iconic flea market.
The holiday market can be found on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and takes place on Sundays throughout the year.
However, during the holiday season, the market pulls out all the stops.
From furniture to vintage clothing, jewelry, crafts, antiques and delicious local cuisine, visitors will enjoy the Yuletide spirit as they shop a variety of merchants that are on rotation.
🏩 Looking for a hotel in Manhattan? Find the best deals here.
Brooklyn & Queens Christmas Markets
The following markets are located in Brooklyn or Queens.
Some of these smaller markets are only open for a couple of weekends or even just one or two days.
9. Brooklyn Borough Hall Holiday Market
New for 2022, and featuring over 100 vendors, the Borough Hall Holiday Market, located in Brooklyn Heights, will showcase Brooklyn-based minority-owned businesses.
The aim of this Urbanspace Market is to reflect the diversity of Brooklyn’s neighbourhoods and its entrepreneurs by having a vibrant cross-section of vendors that represent the borough’s creativity.
You can expect lots of local artisan crafts, vintage clothing and antique sellers, as well as hot drinks to enjoy and a variety of delicious food vendors.
10. Bust Magazine Craftacular and Food Fair Holiday
Stop by this two-day holiday shopping extravaganza in the Sunset Park area of Brooklyn, to check out over 200 vendors showcasing local handmade, vintage, and craft items.
Located right off the East River Ferry, this Holiday Market also offers plenty of sweet and savoury treats to keep your tummy full while you shop ’til you drop.
11. Astoria Holiday Market
The Astoria Holiday Market is like no other market you will find in NYC.
Located in the Main Hall of the famous Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, this market tends to be a little more about food and drink than shopping.
Although you will still find an artisan market filled with handmade items, vintage goods, and other locally made treasures, don’t be too surprised when you get distracted by all the delicious-smelling goodies.
So if the holidays are more about food to you, then be sure to stop by Astoria Market, where you are guaranteed to find something holiday-related to tantalize your taste buds.
12. Holiday Handmade Cavalcade
The NY Handmade Collective is a group that showcases local makers at a variety of pop-up markets throughout the city.
This nonprofit is dedicated to developing a local artisan community and fostering small businesses through mentoring and resources.
During the festive season, you can find a fantastic Holiday Handmade Cavalcade set up at the Brooklyn Historical Society.
This holiday market is an excellent way to support the NY Handmade Collective.
Not only can you shop for hand-crafted jewelry, home goods, pottery, and specialty soaps at one of the best Christmas markets in New York City, but you can also meet the artisans behind the incredible wares.
You can also find the Holiday Handmade Cavalcade at an outpost in Manhattan’s Chelsea Market, located at 14th Street and 9th Avenue!
🚕 Need a way to get into the city? Book your Airport to Brooklyn Shuttle.
13. Christmas Market at Amaze Light Festival
The Amaze Light Festival is the largest festival of lights in the country.
Taking place at Citi Field (the New York Mets’ stadium) in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, this incredible light show boasts a total of five themed worlds with millions of twinkling lights, 3D light decorations and a small forest with lanterns and frost-covered trees.
But what makes the display even more magical is that every 30 minutes, the trees seemingly come to life through animations and begin to dance to Christmas music.
It really is a sight to behold!
The Amaze Light Festival is also home to a wonderful Christmas Market nestled amongst the incredibly impressive Christmas lights.
The market offers traditional booths filled with festive food, crafts, and Christmas decor for your holiday shopping pleasure.
14. Holiday Makers Show
The Makers Show (TMS) is a market founded to provide minority-owned businesses with a place to sell their goods.
It also provides a means for locals to help support these small businesses.
Every year in Brooklyn, you can find a Holiday version of the Maker’s Show.
The vendors stock their most festive products, and you can shop for unique gifts all while supporting the surrounding community.
From amazing jewelry to beauty products, art, as well as delicious food from all over the world, you are sure to find something that catches your eye (or your taste buds!).
15. Fort Hamilton Holiday Market
At the intersection of Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge in the southwest corner of Brooklyn, you’ll find this one-night-only event at the Fort Hamilton military base.
Featuring a tree lighting ceremony, carousel rides and a holiday market, the Fort Hamilton Holiday Market is where you will also find local artists and artisans showcasing their creations, as well as a decent selection of yummy treats on offer.
The entire evening is family-friendly, including the opportunity to take pictures with Santa.
The event is free to enter, but registration is required.
🏩 Looking for a hotel in Brooklyn? Find the best deals here.
Staten Island Christmas Markets
This Christmas Market, located on Staten Island, is a little off the beaten path if you are based in Manhattan for your stay in NYC.
16. Pop-Up Holiday Market at Empire Outlets
Conveniently located right off the Staten Island Ferry, it is one of New York City’s most festive holiday markets.
The Pop-Up Holiday Market at Empire Outlets is an absolute mecca for serious holiday shoppers!
Not only will you find the biggest name designers at a discount in the outlets, but this festive market is also home to a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa, a Christmas tree market, and even a Winter Lantern Festival!
And the market is decked out with 70,000 twinkling lights and over a thousand feet of garland, all designed to get you into that holiday spirit.
🏩 Looking for a hotel on Staten Island? Find the best deals here.
What to Expect at NYC Christmas Markets
As we mentioned, NYC knows how to put on an incredible Christmas Market. And with so many in the city to choose from, it really is difficult to decide where to start.
We found that the more traditional markets are exactly what you would find in a European Christmas Market.
There will be a grouping of outdoor wooden stalls where various vendors are selling handmade goods, delicious foods, holiday treasures like decor and ornaments, and even brand-named items.
Other markets are a little less traditional.
For example, Chelsea Market is open year-round, but at Christmas time, the entire market is decorated and they have themed events, a Holiday Flea Market, and even a Christmas Tree lot!
Of course, one thing you can definitely expect from a New York Christmas Market – it’s going to be busy!
The city is known for its crowded streets, and this is only amplified the closer it gets to Christmas.
And this doesn’t just apply to Christmas Markets.
If you are in the city and wondering if the best things to do with kids around Christmas time are equally busy, the answer would be yes!
Ice skating, Santa visits, shows, and other attractions (especially if they are found within a market) are going to be very crowded, so plan ahead!
Tips for Visiting New York City Christmas Markets
Here are some of the best tips for visiting the Christmas Markets in New York City:
🌂 Come Prepared for the Weather
Bring an umbrella, make sure you are wearing a warm jacket, and apply that sunscreen! LOL.
NYC weather can often be a little unpredictable at this time of the year.
But since the markets operate rain or shine, you will want to make sure you are comfortable for a day spent outdoors.
💵 Bring Cash
Most vendors take credit cards nowadays, but cash can come in handy for smaller items.
Also, since NYC Christmas markets are mostly made up of small businesses, having money on hand for tipping is a great idea.
🛍️ Bring Your Own Tote
Many vendors charge extra for bags.
So if you are planning to do a little shopping, or even if you are just going to browse but end up finding some irresistible items (because that NEVER happens!), make sure you come prepared with your own reusable totes.
Besides, they are much better for the environment!
😊 Pack some patience
As we mentioned, NYC tends to get quite busy around the holidays.
With crowds of people at every turn, the annoyance levels tend to go up as well.
Give yourself extra time, remember to breathe, and focus on all the wonderful things around you.
Best Time to Visit NYC Christmas Markets
Many of the biggest and best Christmas Markets in New York City are actually open from as early as late October to the beginning of November.
Definitely take advantage of those early shopping days, as the markets will be less crowded.
Once December hits, the markets will be in full swing all over the city.
This is when you will have the most options for which markets to visit, much of the city will be decorated for Christmas, and you may even have a light dusting of snow on the ground to add to the ambiance.
We actually visited NYC the week of Christmas and can tell you firsthand how busy it was.
If this is your plan, visit the markets early in the day, as the crowds are pretty manageable at this time.
But if you happen to end up in the Christmas Markets around 5 pm, expect mayhem!
The number of people on the streets and in the small market aisles was totally overwhelming for the kids.
We found that things got much better towards the end of the evening, usually about an hour before the markets closed.
So when shopping in a New York City Christmas Market, the week of Christmas, timing is definitely everything!
NYC Christmas Markets FAQs
Most people, especially native New Yorkers, would agree that the most popular Christmas Market in the city is the Grand Central Holiday Fair.
New York City is seemingly filled with a variety of Christmas and Holiday Markets. From Manhattan to Brooklyn, Queens, Hell’s Kitchen, and even Staten Island, you will find Christmas Markets in every corner of the city.
In general, you will find that the largest of the Christmas Markets in New York City will be open the longest. You can expect a few to open towards the end of October, with many staying open until the first week of January.
YES! Christmas in New York City is MAGICAL. The streets may be busy, but all the wonderful holiday markets, twinkling lights, Christmas displays, music, and food definitely make it all worthwhile.
As we have mentioned once or twice in this post, the crowds in NYC can be insane. But if you time your visit and arrive in early December (instead of right around Thanksgiving or Christmas) you will have a much better chance at smaller crowds and fewer hassles.
5 days in NYC would be the perfect amount of time, especially if it’s your first visit. You could also spend 3 days in New York City, but it would definitely be a stretch – and you would need to plan a return visit for sure! If you have only one day to spend in New York City, you would probably have to limit your visit to just Manhattan.
Final Thoughts
With so many different options to choose from, finding the best Christmas Markets in New York City may be a daunting task.
And no matter how much time you have, and what part of the city you find yourself in, any holiday market you come across will be a unique and wonderful experience.
Have you been to NYC during Christmas? Which was your favourite market? We would love to hear about it!
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