Once Halloween ends in New York City, the holiday season officially begins. Stores throughout Manhattan begin decorating their windows with enchanting Christmas displays, tickets to holiday shows begin selling out, and shoppers make a mad dash throughout the City to purchase the perfect items for their loved ones.

If you are not into the usual holiday gifts, a great place to visit in New York City is a holiday market. With numerous amounts of handcrafted goods and unique items, these markets have something for everyone.

While there are a number of holiday markets throughout the city , some of my favorites include the outdoor holiday markets, where you can grab a hot cup of tea and do some shopping.

The Union Square Holiday Market

Every year from the end of November to the end of December, UrbanSpace hosts the Union Square Holiday Market. The market is massive with over 150 vendors selling handmade goods, food, clothing, and artwork.

Although it can get extremely crowded and a little cramped at times, one of my favorite things about this market is the selection of unique items that are sold here.

Practical Information

  • Hours: Vary between 10am – 8pm, check Urban Space’s website for more information.
  • Address: Union Square Park
  • Getting There: N/R/Q/4/5/6/L trains to 14th Street – Union Square

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market

Every December, UrbanSpace hosts the Columbus Circle Holiday Market on the edge of Central Park. A lot less crowded than the other two markets, the Columbus Circle Market also offers a collection of one-of-a-kind goods. One of my favorite things about this market is their outdoor dining area, where you can take a break from all of the shopping you are doing and grab a bite to eat.

Practical Information

  • Hours: Vary between 10am – 8pm, check Urban Space’s website for more information.
  • Address: Columbus Circle, Central Park West and 59 Street
  • Getting There: 1/A/B/C/D trains to 59th Street

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park

Every year from October to January, Bryant Park is filled with over 125 European-inspired boutique-like shops that sell everything from clothing, to decorative goods, to food. In addition to shopping and eating, you can enjoy free ice skating in the large ice rink.

Interested to see more about The Shops at Bryant Park? Check out this post by Souvenir Finder! 

Practical Information

  • Hours: Vary between 10am – 9pm, check out the Winter Village website for more information.
  • Address: Bryant Park, Midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Avenues.
  • Getting There: B/D/F/M trains to 42nd Street – Bryant Park or the 7 train to 5th Avenue

Have you ever visited any of New York City’s outdoor holiday markets? Which were your favorite?