9 NYC Holiday Markets That Look Straight Out of the Movies
New York City transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season with markets that feel like scenes from a classic film. These markets offer unique crafts, delicious treats, and magical atmospheres. From bustling Union Square to charming Brooklyn spots, each market delivers holiday spirit and one-of-a-kind gifts. Whether skating at Bryant Park or exploring Harlem’s culture, these markets promise joyful moments and memorable shopping. These nine markets showcase the best of NYC’s holiday magic.
Union Square Holiday Market
Union Square Holiday Market is New York’s longest-running and largest holiday market with over 185 vendors. Visitors find unique gifts such as handmade jewelry, home decor, and festive treats in a lively atmosphere. Operated by Urbanspace, the market captures the spirit of the city’s creative energy. The festive ambiance invites shopping and seasonal enjoyment, making it ideal for finding presents while soaking in holiday cheer in a beloved public space.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park Winter Village offers a European-inspired holiday shopping experience with 170 holiday kiosks and food vendors. The centerpiece is a 17,000-square-foot ice-skating rink with free entry for skaters who bring their own skates. The market also features The Lodge, a food hall and cocktail bar, perfect for warming up. This vibrant market combines shopping, skating, and festive fun in Midtown’s heart, making it a top holiday destination.
The Makers Show at City Point
The Makers Show at City Point in Brooklyn celebrates local artisans with over 60 vendors showcasing handcrafts that focus on sustainability and social equity. Shoppers find distinctive gifts including handmade ceramics, eco-friendly goods, and premium clothing. This market reflects Brooklyn’s creative spirit with an emphasis on diverse and underrepresented creators. It provides a unique, stylish shopping experience far from the typical hustle.
Harlem Night Market
Harlem Night Market at La Marqueta in East Harlem returns for the 2025 holiday season with events primarily on weekends, featuring live music, salsa dancing, and a vibrant mix of Caribbean and soul food vendors alongside artisans offering unique handmade goods. The market provides a rich cultural holiday experience celebrating Harlem’s heritage with food, crafts, and community warmth. Events usually happen on Saturdays from 11 AM to 7 PM, creating a lively, festive atmosphere ideal for shopping and socializing.
Macy’s Holiday Square
Located inside the iconic Macy’s Herald Square, this indoor market features about 30 specialty vendors including Pearl River Mart and Uncommon Goods. It offers a cozy shopping retreat during the chilly season, perfect for finding eclectic gifts and holiday treats. The market provides a festive respite with a warm, decorated atmosphere inside one of NYC’s most famous department stores, making it a convenient holiday stop. Macy’s Holiday Square runs from November 1, 2025, to January 3, 2026, on the lower level of Macy’s Herald Square and showcases a curated selection of local vendors and artisan products.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market at Central Park’s southwest entrance runs from December 2 to December 31, 2025, with hours from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekends. The market features over 140 handpicked vendors offering artisanal gifts, jewelry, crafts, and seasonal foods in a charming European-style setting. Located amid iconic NYC sights, it offers a perfect blend of festive shopping and scenic winter strolls. Closed on Christmas Day, it closes early at 4:00 PM on New Year’s Eve. This upscale market is ideal for shoppers seeking unique gifts and cozy holiday experiences.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
The Grand Central Holiday Fair inside Vanderbilt Hall offers an elegant, indoor holiday shopping experience from November 10 to December 24, 2025. This market features around 36 curated vendors specializing in jewelry, crafts, home décor, and unique handmade gifts. The beautiful Beaux-Arts setting with festive decorations creates a warm, inviting atmosphere sheltered from the winter chill. Ideal for last-minute shopping and peaceful browsing, this fair is a must-visit for quality, artistry, and holiday spirit in a historic New York landmark.
Bryant Park Igloo Dining Experience
Bryant Park’s Igloo Dining Experience offers cozy private heated igloos decorated with fairy lights and holiday décor, creating a magical winter atmosphere. Guests can enjoy seasonal food and festive drinks while surrounded by stunning Midtown skyline views. Each 90-minute session accommodates up to eight people and features a selection of warm meals like artisanal sausages and Bavarian pretzels, paired with hot chocolate or mulled wine. This unique experience complements the Winter Village and runs from November 6, 2025, to January 4, 2026, making it perfect for special holiday evenings.
DUMBO Holiday Market
The DUMBO Holiday Market in Brooklyn offers a trendy and artistic shopping experience with local designers and creators. Set against the stunning waterfront backdrop, shoppers can enjoy amazing views of the Manhattan skyline that enhance the festive ambiance. This market features handmade goods, original art, and creative gifts in a chic, relaxed atmosphere away from the Midtown hustle. Its focus on supporting local craftsmanship makes it a popular destination for finding unique holiday presents. The market runs Saturdays and Sundays from November 16 to December 21, 2025, with additional events like the FAD Market at Empire Stores and the Shop the Studios open studio day on December 6.
