It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas: Our Guide to the NYC Holiday Markets
Holiday markets are beginning to open up all around New York City. Here’s where you can find the best gifts, the most ornate decorations, and most importantly, the tastiest holiday eats.
Thanksgiving has officially ended, which means it’s time to break out the ugly holiday sweaters and the Christmasplaylist. Along with the yearly lighting of the tree in Rockefeller Center and the fabulous holiday window displays of the Fifth Avenue shops, we’re most excited for the return of the annual holiday markets. Every year, native New Yorkers and tourists alike flock to these adorable pop-up shops in search of one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday cheer.
Here’s our guide to the best holiday markets that New York City has to offer:
Union Square Holiday Market
Dates: Nov. 17 — Dec. 24
This winter market offers all the classic holiday delights that any Christmas lover will adore, and much more. Immediately upon stepping out of the subway, you will enter a winter wonderland complete with pine needles dusting the concrete and the smell of gingerbread in the air. This market can get crowded, so be prepared to bob and weave around other shoppers through the maze of vendor stalls.
As you continue through the stalls, you will find jewelry, art, and Christmas and Chanukah decorations galore. If you’re looking for a gift, you’ll find everything from a classic scarf for mom to a miniature vest for your dog at this expansive market.
Our favorite stall is one that returns to the market every year: TribalHome. Each holiday season this stall lights up the whole market with its impressive display of colorful lamps.
After all that shopping, you’ll need to fuel up with some classic holiday eats. This market serves up homemade apple cider, mouthwatering waffles, and artisanal chocolate.
Etsy Holiday Handmade Cavalcade
Dates: Dec. 5 — Dec. 11
In this craft lover’s paradise, Etsy’s online store is available in a brick and mortar location (for a limited time only!). If you’re looking for a unique handmade gift or a unique accessory for yourself, you’re sure to find it here. As an added bonus for those who prefer to shop local, everything sold at this market is made within the tri-state area. There is also a sip ’n’ shop event on the night of December 8, during which shoppers can enjoy cocktails while perusing the market.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
Dates: Nov. 14 — Dec. 24
As the weather gets colder, warm up inside New York City’s longest running indoor holiday market. With a focus on American-made products and locally sourced materials, you can browse this socially-conscious market while enjoying the beautiful architecture of Grand Central Terminal. This holiday fair is one of the priciest of the bunch, so come prepared to part with some of your hard-earned dollars. We know you’re worth it.
Bust Magazine Craftacular and Food Fair
Dates: Dec 10–11
Crafts and food!? Sign us up! With DJ sets, an ugly sweater selfie booth, and a custom holiday manicure stand, this festive market is a self-described “all day shopping party.” Browse goods from Brooklyn’s finest indie craftspeople, and grab yourself a one-of-a-kind gift. This market lasts for just two days, the weekend of December 10–11, so make sure to mark your calendar.
Do you have a favorite NYC holiday market? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter @NYCExplorers
