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Christmas Markets in New York City (And Beyond)

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New York is always magical, but the magic truly comes alive at Christmas time. From the millions of sparkling lights to bustling events, New York City has so much to do for the holidays. However, one of my favorite festive activities are exploring charming Christmas markets. So, without further ado, here’s the ultimate list of Christmas Markets in New York City (and beyond) to check out now and in the future! 

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Christmas Markets in New York City

If you find yourself visiting The Big Apple during November or December, you’re in luck! There are SO many fun and festive holiday markets to check out. Whether you are looking to support local vendors or simply take in the holiday cheer, these Christmas markets in New York City should not be missed! 

1. Winter Village at Bryant Park

Located near Midtown, this market offers more than just shopping. You can ice skate with the NYC skyline behind you (which I’ve done here), challenge your friends to an iceless game of curling, or enjoy a meal inside a private igloo.   

The European-styled shops are open from late October through early January, but everything else stays open until March. FYI, Central Park also offers a cool ice skating experience in case you can’t make it to Bryant Park. This fun experience also includes a tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral as well as ice skating at Central Park.

2. Grand Central Holiday Fair

Set in the beautiful Vanderbilt Hall, this indoor market is a must for holiday shoppers looking to escape the cold (winters in NYC are chilly!) It’s open from mid-November until Christmas Eve, with handcrafted goods from dozens of artisans. 

Bonus! After shopping, be sure to bring your gifts to the Grand Boutique for complimentary wrapping. If you’re like me and you like to learn the history of where you’re visiting, check out this Grand Central Terminal and Summit One tour which will enthrall you.

3. Holiday Market at the Oculus

The Holiday Market at the Oculus is the perfect place to shop for unique Christmas gifts, snap those Instagramable photos, and taste some festive food. In past years, I’ve especially enjoyed the roaming carolers to really spread that Christmas cheer. 

This market is held in the Westfield’s World Trade Center and runs from the end of November to January 2nd. It’s open 7 days a week! 

4. Wallabout Wonderland Holiday Market

For one weekend only, you can stroll through the festive rows of over 200 local vendors! In addition to shopping, you’ll also find family-friendly activities (anyone up for a cookie decorating contest?), family portraits, DIY stations, and even a sports and wellness center.

There’s even a shuttle bus that runs every 15 minutes from the Atlantic Terminal shuttle stop so you won’t have to worry about parking hassles or long walks. Or, you can park onsite for $10. After the holiday market, I’d highly recommend checking out Dyker Heights in Brooklyn to see the spectacular Christmas decorations. I used to go here all the time as a child, so I’m hoping you can also check it out with this tour.

Christmas Markets in New York

Looking to venture a bit outside of the city? Here are some of the best Christmas markets throughout the state of New York. It sounds like the perfect festive road trip to me. Who’s in? 

1. Holidays in the Market (Buffalo)

Although Buffalo is a long way from NYC, this holiday market is a must on anyone’s Christmas in New York’s bucket list. It’s held at the beautiful Richardson Olmsted Campus and runs from November 29th to December 22nd. 

While exploring, you’ll find many local vendors housed in the cutest wooden chalets. It brings all the European Christmas market vibes right to New York. There’s also live music, carriage rides, kids activities, and of course visits from Santa Claus. If you’d like to check out Buffalo’s top Christmas sites during the season, this tour is for you.

Before you leave Buffalo, make sure to check out Niagara Falls, and a Buffalo Bills or Buffalo Sabres game.

2. Holiday Village Stroll (Lake Placid)

This 3-day event is more of a celebration than simply a Christmas market. It’s situated in the beautiful Adirondacks (one of the most beautiful places in the state in my opinion) and features a Christmas tree lighting, a skating party, photos with Santa, free holiday movies, and so much more! 

You’ll definitely feel as though you’ve entered a Hallmark Christmas movie scene. If you have more time, I’d highly recommend seeing more of Lake Placid. With this tour, you’ll be picked up directly from NYC for a 2 day trip seeing natural wonders such as Whiteface Mountain and High Falls Gorge.

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    3. Christkindlmarkt (Poughkeepsie)

    Spending a Christmas in Germany is definitely high up on my bucket list but for now…I’m forever scoping out the Christmas markets in New York that are modeled after the charming country. The Christkindlmarkt at Germania of Poughkeepsie offers traditional German holiday treats, crafts, and ornaments, giving visitors a taste of an authentic European-style Christmas market. 

    It only runs for 2 days, so if you find yourself in Poughkeepsie on the right dates, definitely add it to your list!   

    4. Italian Christmas Market (Albany)

    If you would like to continue your “Europe” tour right here in New York, then do not miss Albany’s Italian Christmas Market. The Albany American Italian Heritage Museum transforms into a winter wonderland and celebrates all things Italian. 

    You’ll find Italian holiday traditions with Italian-made decorations, sweets, and a special Christmas nativity exhibit. While in Albany, don’t forget to take a scenic tour of the Hudson River after checking out the market for an unforgettable experience.

    Christmas Markets in New York City and Beyond Recap

    What a magical list! I know I’m ready for the holiday season to be in full swing. I can’t wait to be aimlessly strolling down the market rows while soaking in all the Christmas magic. Anyone else? 

    If so, here’s a quick recap of the best Christmas Markets in NYC and beyond. Which one will you check out first?! 

    Christmas Markets in New York City

    1. Winter Village at Bryant Park ( October 25 – January 5)

    2. Grand Central Holiday Fair (November 11th – December 24th)

    3. Holiday Market at the Oculus (November 25th-January 2nd)

    4. Wallabout Wonderland Holiday Market (December 7th-8th)

    Christmas Markets in New York

    1. Holidays in the Market (November 29th- December 22nd) 

    2. Holiday Village Stroll (December 13- 14)

    3. Christkindlmarkt (November 22-November 23) 

    4. Italian Christmas Market (November 30th-December 2nd)

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      Final Thoughts

      I’ve said it countless times before, but New York is truly the most magical (and best) place to be during the holidays. Which Christmas market will you be visiting first? Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

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      Photo Credit

      Thank you to Jess Sanchez for the Rockefeller Center photo, Jen Dries for the Manhattan photo, Johnell Pannell for the Bryant Park Winter Village photo, Richard Bell for the market photo, Jay Joshi for the ornament photo by Radio City Music Hall and Aditya Siva for the Lake Placid photo. I discovered their work from Unsplash.com. Please check them out!

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      Disclosure

      This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

      Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

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