A Season of Hope and Renewal
New York sparkles with holiday magic like no other place in the world, and its Christmas markets and festivals capture the heart of the season.
From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the charming towns upstate, these markets offer more than just shopping—they provide a chance to embrace the warmth and joy of Christmas. The twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats create a festive atmosphere that celebrates love, generosity, and togetherness.
But amid the holiday cheer, it’s important to remember that the true heart of this season is the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth—a moment of hope and renewal for all.
Christmas Markets in New York City
Union Square Holiday Market
Venue: Union Square Park
Location: 14th St. & Broadway, New York, NY
Dates: November 16 – December 24, 2024
Ticket Prices: Free admission
The Union Square Holiday Market is a beloved NYC tradition, with over 185 stalls offering handmade gifts, gourmet treats, and unique holiday decorations. This European-style market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and artisanal vendors, such as Ana’s Handmade Ornaments and Jojo’s Hot Cocoa, which draws crowds looking for one-of-a-kind gifts.
After shopping, visitors can dine at nearby restaurants like Gramercy Tavern for upscale American cuisine or grab a quick bite at Baohaus. Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic Union Square neighborhood, with its mix of boutique stores and cozy cafes.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Venue: Bryant Park
Location: 42nd St. & 6th Ave., New York, NY
Dates: October 27, 2024 – January 7, 2025
Ticket Prices: Free admission (skating rentals extra)
Bryant Park transforms into a magical winter village with an open-air market and a free ice-skating rink surrounded by holiday-themed shops. Visitors can browse for artisanal crafts and gourmet foods, such as Belgian waffles from Wafels & Dinges. Unique attractions like “The Lodge,” a cozy rinkside bar, make it a festive hotspot.
Nearby, the New York Public Library offers a picturesque holiday backdrop, while dining options like Keens Steakhouse or L’Adresse provide perfect post-shopping meals.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Venue: Columbus Circle
Location: 59th St. & Central Park West, New York, NY
Dates: November 28 – December 24, 2024
Ticket Prices: Free admission
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a must-visit for holiday shoppers seeking artisanal goods in a scenic setting adjacent to Central Park. Known for its handcrafted gifts and gourmet delights, vendors like Spoonable Spirits and Wooden You Love showcase exceptional wares. Visitors can combine their shopping trip with a stroll through Central Park’s winter trails or enjoy fine dining at a nearby Tavern on the Green. For a warm drink, try hot chocolate at Angelina Paris NYC just a short walk away.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Market
Venue: Rockefeller Plaza
Location: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY
Dates: Late November – December 2024
Ticket Prices: Free admission
Nestled beneath the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, this boutique holiday market is the perfect stop for exclusive holiday shopping. Vendors sell artisanal goods, holiday ornaments, and gourmet snacks. Seasonal performances from nearby Radio City Music Hall elevate the atmosphere. After shopping, grab a hot chocolate at Blue Bottle Coffee or enjoy dining at Del Frisco’s Grille, both located near the Plaza.
Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar
Venue: 501 Union and The Green Building
Location: 501 Union St., Brooklyn, NY
Dates: December 2024 (specific dates TBD)
Ticket Prices: Free admission
The Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar celebrates the borough’s creative spirit with handmade crafts, art, and sustainable goods from local artisans. Expect live music, craft cocktails, and delicious food from Brooklyn vendors like Runner & Stone. The venue’s chic industrial setting adds a modern holiday vibe.
Pair your visit with a walk along the nearby Gowanus Canal or dinner at Pig Beach, known for its award-winning BBQ.
Queens Night Market Holiday Edition
Venue: New York Hall of Science
Location: 47-01 111th St., Queens, NY
Dates: Select weekends in December 2024
Ticket Prices: Free admission
This holiday-themed edition of the Queens Night Market features global street food, local artists, and festive performances. It’s an eclectic, family-friendly market with diverse offerings from dumplings to holiday-themed desserts.
While in Queens, explore Flushing Meadows-Corona Park or enjoy a meal at Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, famous for its soup dumplings.
Christmas Markets Upstate
Westchester Winter Wonderland
Venue: Kensico Dam Plaza
Location: White Plains, NY
Dates: November 30, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Ticket Prices: $10 per person
Westchester Winter Wonderland is a family-friendly market featuring a holiday village, an ice-skating rink, and festive rides. Local artisans offer unique crafts and gifts, while food vendors serve seasonal favorites like spiced cider and hot pretzels.
Just a short drive away, The Westchester Mall provides additional shopping, and restaurants like Mulino’s of Westchester offer exquisite Italian cuisine to complete the day.
The Great New York State Fair Holiday Market
Venue: New York State Fairgrounds
Location: Syracuse, NY
Dates: December 7 – December 8, 2024
Ticket Prices: Free admission
This market is a highlight of Syracuse’s festive season. It showcases local crafts, holiday entertainment, and farm-to-table food vendors. Its family-friendly activities include photo opportunities with Santa and live music performances by regional artists.
Nearby, explore Syracuse’s Clinton Square, known for its skating rink and holiday decorations. A visit to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a local legend for BBQ, is the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets Holiday Market
Venue: Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
Location: Central Valley, NY
Dates: November – December 2024 (exact dates vary)
Ticket Prices: Free admission
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets combines holiday shopping with festive charm, hosting pop-up markets and seasonal events among its designer outlets. Visitors can find luxury gifts at discounted prices while enjoying holiday light displays and live entertainment. After shopping, head to Cosimo’s Brick Oven for hearty Italian fare or enjoy scenic views at Bear Mountain State Park, just a short drive away.
Christmas Light Exhibits
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Venue: Saks Fifth Avenue
Location: 611 5th Ave., New York, NY
Dates: Late November 2024 – Early January 2025
Ticket Prices: Free admission
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show offers an elegant holiday experience, with choreographed light displays set to music on the store’s iconic façade. While technically not a market, it’s a must-see for visitors exploring the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and skating rink just steps away. Finish your visit with dinner at L’Avenue at Saks, the rooftop restaurant offering stellar city views and French-inspired dishes.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Venue: Dyker Heights Neighborhood
Location: 11th to 13th Avenues, Brooklyn, NY
Dates: Late November 2024 – Early January 2025
Ticket Prices: Free admission
While not a traditional market, the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are a visual feast that transforms this Brooklyn neighborhood into a dazzling wonderland. Many homes go all out with extravagant light displays, inflatables, and holiday scenes that rival professional setups. Guided tours are available for those wanting a curated experience.
Pair your visit with a meal at nearby Gino’s of Bay Ridge, a staple for Italian cuisine. After enjoying the lights, stop by local cafes like Cocoa Grinder for a warm drink.
Winter Festivals
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival
Location: Saranac Lake, NY
Dates: February 2 – February 11, 2025
Ticket Prices: Free admission
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is a time-honored tradition that draws visitors from across New York. The centerpiece is the stunning ice palace, constructed from blocks harvested from Lake Flower, which serves as a beacon for this celebration of winter. Events include lively parades, dazzling fireworks, and a variety of winter sports, creating an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie in this Adirondack village.
Nearby, enjoy cozy dining at Left Bank Café or the Winter Carnival Gala for a taste of local flavors and festive fun. Saranac Lake also offers quaint shops and scenic snowy trails, perfect for exploring the surrounding beauty.
Syracuse Winterfest
Location: Syracuse, NY
Dates: February 13 – February 23, 2025
Ticket Prices: Free admission
Syracuse Winterfest transforms the city into a winter wonderland, attracting approximately 100,000 attendees each year. Highlights include culinary competitions like the Chowder Cook-Off, intricate ice sculptures, and family-friendly activities. The festive atmosphere makes it a central New York highlight for all ages.
After enjoying the festivities, visitors can explore Armory Square for shopping and dining at places like Pastabilities, known for its fresh, house-made pasta and warm atmosphere. The nearby Everson Museum of Art also offers a cultural touchpoint to round out your visit.
Central Park Winter Jam
Location: Central Park, New York, NY
Dates: January 25, 2025
Ticket Prices: Free admission
The Central Park Winter Jam is a family-friendly event that brings the joys of winter sports to Manhattan. With fresh snow provided by Gore Mountain, visitors can try skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even ice sculpting—all for free. This annual festival is a city favorite for experiencing a winter retreat in the heart of the urban jungle.
Afterward, warm up with hot cocoa from Café Sabarsky or indulge in hearty Austrian cuisine at the restaurant within the Neue Galerie nearby. A walk through the snowy paths of Central Park completes the perfect winter’s day.
LuminoCity Festival
Location: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, NY
Dates: November 8, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Ticket Prices: $30 for general admission, $15 for children
The LuminoCity Festival transforms Eisenhower Park into an enchanting realm of light. Guests are treated to themed light displays and immersive art installations that spark wonder and imagination. This luminous celebration is perfect for families and couples alike, offering a magical evening out. After the festival, explore nearby dining options like The Capital Grille or local favorite Vincent’s Clam Bar for a flavorful Italian meal. If time permits, visit Old Westbury Gardens for a seasonal stroll.
NYC Winter Lantern Festival
Locations: Staten Island, Queens, Long Island, and Brooklyn, NY
Dates: November 17, 2024 – January 7, 2025
Ticket Prices: $22 for adults, $12 for children
The NYC Winter Lantern Festival brings over 1,000 handcrafted lanterns to life across multiple boroughs, celebrating Chinese culture and artistry. Each location offers unique designs, from glowing dragons to floral sculptures, creating an unforgettable holiday experience for all ages.
Complement your visit with dim sum at Staten Island’s Jade Asian Bistro or a cozy café stop in Williamsburg if visiting Brooklyn’s installation. These magical displays and local flavors make for a festive evening adventure.
The Reason for the Season
As you explore the many New York Christmas markets and soak in the festive spirit, let’s not forget the essence of the season. The birth of Jesus is the foundation of Christmas, a reminder of God’s love and the gift of grace. With their lights and music, these markets echo the joy of that miraculous night in Bethlehem. As you sip cocoa, select the perfect ornament, or marvel at dazzling lights, take a moment to reflect on the message of peace, goodwill, and love that Christmas brings to all. Wishing you a blessed and joyous holiday season!
