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.
This guide has been updated for the 2024 holiday season.
GRAND CENTRAL
The Grand Central Holiday Fair is back! This year you can expect over three dozen 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 and the brand new GCT merchandise booth, the Grand Gift Shop.
Grand Central Holiday Fair runs from November 11th through December 24th
UNION SQUARE
Over 180 vendors are at the Union Square Holiday Market, which is celebrating its 31st year. Not only are there loads of gift ideas from artisans — like handmade ceramics, candles, and much more — but there's also food to keep you energized during your holiday jaunts.
The Union Square Holiday Market runs from November 14th through December 23rd
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 5th
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 December 3rd through December 31st
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." This year, they'll be open for three weekends of shopping and snacking with a rotating selection of vendors.
The Holiday Pop-Up in Dumbo runs on weekends in December until the 22nd
DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN
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 30th through December 22nd