Do you have Hallmark movie main character energy? Then you're going to want to check out our guide to the best holiday markets around the city, which always create idyllic, holiday movie-esque settings for shopping. Below, find a list of some of the best spots to hit up, all easily accessible using mass transit.

GRAND CENTRAL 

The Grand Central Holiday Fair
The Grand Central Holiday Fair (Marc A. Hermann / MTA)
The Grand Central Holiday Fair
Transit ornaments at the Grand Central Holiday Fair (Marc A. Hermann / MTA)

The Grand Central Holiday Fair is back! This year you can expect around 40 local vendors and small businesses offering a variety of goodies and high-quality gifts. Located in Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall, you can expect to find clothing and accessories, original artwork, jewelry, and, of course, holiday keepsakes and ornaments. Be sure to check out Grand Central Terminal’s many permanent vendors, as well, including the New York Transit Museum Store 

Grand Central Holiday Fair runs from November 13th through December 24th 

UNION SQUARE 

Over 180 vendors are at the Union Square Holiday Market, which is celebrating its 30th year. Not only are there loads of gift ideas from artisans — like handmade ceramics, candles, and much more — but there's also food! cookies and babka, and so much more to keep you energized during your holiday jaunts.

The Union Square Holiday Market runs from November 16th through December 24th

BRYANT PARK 

With a look straight out of a holiday rom-com, The Shops at Winter Village - Bryant Park offer more than just a shopping experience. Alongside the dozens of shops lining the perimeter of the Midtown park, all in “jewel box” kiosks, you’ll also find an ice skating rink and food vendors. Carve out some time to relax here after you get your shopping done. 

The Shops at Winter Village-Bryant Park runs from October 27th through January 2nd

COLUMBUS CIRCLE 

Columbus Circle
Columbus Circle

Nestled at the southwestern corner of Central Park is the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. You’ll find around 100 vendors here offering items for pretty much everyone on your gift list, ranging from unique home goods to specialty foods. 

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market runs from November 28th through December 31st 

LOWER MANHATTAN 

oculus holiday market
Holiday Market at the Oculus

It can’t get more convenient than a holiday market inside of a transit hub. Westfield's annual holiday market brings gifts, treats, and souvenirs to the Oculus. They also promise “special photo moments and performances” throughout.  

The Holiday Market at the Oculus runs from November 25th through January 2nd

DUMBO 

dumbomarket
Holiday pop-up in DUMBO

The historic Empire Stores building on the waterfront in DUMBO is hosting a holiday market featuring "one-of-a-kind gifts handmade by local artisans, designers, and creative small businesses." Their market will be open seven days a week, and you can head up to the Time Out Market upstairs once you're done for some food.

The Holiday Pop-Up in Dumbo runs from November 27th through December 22nd

DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN 

makerscitypoint
The Makers Market

The Makers Show at CityPoint has returned to the Brooklyn mall with more than 30 makers on hand to help you stuff those stockings. Created to help invest in local communities and support women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other underrepresented groups, The Makers Show has vendors showcasing arts and crafts, hand-screened sweatshirts and tees, handmade jewelry, and more! 

The Makers Show at City Point is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and runs from November 24th through December 17th, and December 20th through 23rd