Best Holiday and Christmas Markets to Visit in New York City 2023
If you’re planning a visit to New York City during the holidays, you have to check out the Christmas Markets in NYC. And while they are not as done up as European Christmas markets, New York City does a really great job getting into the holiday spirit and making you feel all the Christmas vibes. So, in this New York guide, I am covering the best Christmas Markets in New York City you won’t want to miss!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Best Holiday and Christmas Markets to Visit in New York City 2023
- Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (Bryant Park Christmas Market)
- Union Square Christmas Market
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- Holiday Market at the Oculus at Westfield World Trade Center
- Grand Central Terminal 2023 Holiday Fair
- Chelsea Market During the Holidays
- Hudson Yards Holiday Shops
- Tips to Know Before Visiting the NYC Christmas Markets 2023
- Best Christmas & Holiday Markets in New York City Wrap-up
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (Bryant Park Christmas Market)
Easily one of my hands-down favorite Christmas markets in New York City has to be the 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 NYC’s best Christmas Trees.
The ice skating rink opens during the Fall in NYC, 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!
Or you can warm up at The Lodge Bar + Food Hall. It is both indoors and outdoors and gives off all the holiday vibes. Plus, Byrant Park itself is such an iconic place in NYC. It is located right next to the New York Public Library, the Empire State Building, and even Grand Central!
Address: 41st Street and, 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Union Square Christmas Market
Another one of the best Christmas Markets to visit in New York City 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.
The announcement for 2023 has not been released yet, but it is usually mid-November until Christmas Eve.
Address: E 14th St, New York, NY 10011
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
When visiting New York during December, 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, why not stop 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.
This market will be opening from November 28th to December 31st, 2023.
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11 AM – 8 PM; Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
Address: Columbus Cir &, Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
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!
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 New York City Christmas Market is that the Oculus itself is such an iconic and cool place to visit in New York. 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!
Address: 185 Greenwich Street New York, New York 10007
Grand Central Terminal 2023 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 NYC!
This fun NYC Christmas market will start on November 13th and run until December 24th (closed on Thanksgiving).
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM; Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM; Christmas Eve: 10 AM – 6 PM.
Address: Vanderbilt Hall: Grand Central Terminal 89 E 42nd Street New York, NY 10017
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 inside this indoor market, you will find local artisan stores and food vendors that scream Christmas cheer.
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.
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Hudson Yards Holiday Shops
Similar to the Chelsea Markets, the Hudson Yards do not have annual Christmas markets, but they do some of the best Christmas lights in NYC, 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).
Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Tips to Know Before Visiting the NYC Christmas Markets 2023
Now that you know some of the best Christmas Markets to visit in NYC, 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 NYC Christmas Markets are outside, so make sure to dress in layers! Here is my ultimate NYC Winter Packing list for more!
- 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 NYC, but always be careful!
- Don’t forget to try some hot chocolate!
Best Christmas & Holiday Markets in New York City Wrap-up
This concludes some of the best Christmas Markets to enjoy in New York City! I hope you have the best time exploring New York’s version of holiday shops and get some great deals for the holiday season!
Have any questions about these Christmas Markets in NYC, or feel like I am missing a holiday market? Let me know in the comments below!
