Christmas Markets in New York City (2025): Dates, Opening Times, Maps, Food & the Best Markets in NYC
- Ryan Jones
- 22 hours ago
- 7 min read
Quick Planner — When Do NYC Christmas Markets Open in 2025?
The holiday season in New York City begins earlier than most, with the first markets opening before Halloween and continuing into the new year. The official kickoff for the city’s festive market season is October 24, 2025, when Bryant Park Winter Village opens its doors to shoppers and skaters alike. Most other holiday markets across the city—like Union Square, Columbus Circle, and Grand Central Terminal—open in mid-November and run until Christmas Eve (December 24). A few, such as the Bryant Park rink, remain open through early March 2026, making NYC’s winter magic last well beyond the holidays.
If you’re planning your trip around the markets, it’s smart to visit between mid-November and Christmas Eve, when all major markets are in full swing. Many shops and food stalls open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, though some markets stay open later as the holidays approach. To avoid crowds, weekdays or early mornings are best; the busiest times tend to be weekends after 4 PM, when both tourists and locals flood in to soak up the lights and festive energy.
The Best Christmas Markets in NYC (2025) — Ranked Shortlist
New York City is home to over a dozen holiday markets, but a few stand out as true seasonal icons. Each one offers something unique, from local crafts and gourmet foods to festive drinks and twinkling backdrops perfect for photos.
Bryant Park Winter Village – The city’s most famous holiday market, featuring 180+ shops, free ice skating, igloos, and a towering Christmas tree.
Union Square Holiday Market – Known for its 185+ vendors, NYC-made gifts, and festive food stalls.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market – A Central Park-side market offering European-style booths, mulled wine, and artisan crafts.
Grand Central Holiday Fair – The longest-running indoor market in NYC, perfect for avoiding cold weather.
Oculus Holiday Market – A stunning, architecturally modern market set inside the World Trade Center.
Chelsea Market Holiday Pop-Ups – A food-lover’s paradise with festive décor and pop-up artisans.
Brooklyn’s FAD Market & Navy Yard Market – Great for local gifts, vintage finds, and supporting small creators.
Each market adds its own flavor to the city’s holiday scene. Whether you’re after one-of-a-kind gifts, a steaming cup of glühwein, or simply a reason to stroll under twinkling lights, these markets capture the essence of Christmas in New York City.
Bryant Park Winter Village (Midtown Manhattan)
The Bryant Park Winter Village, sponsored by Bank of America, is the crown jewel of NYC’s Christmas market scene. Opening October 24, 2025, it transforms Midtown into a winter wonderland complete with over 180 vendor stalls, cozy igloos, and the city’s only free-admission ice skating rink. Visitors can browse handmade jewelry, holiday ornaments, art prints, and gourmet treats while enjoying hot chocolate, kettle corn, and warm raclette cheese melted over potatoes.
The market’s festive tree lighting, held on December 2, 2025, is one of the most magical moments of the season. Bryant Park’s igloos—private, heated domes near the rink—are a favorite for couples and groups seeking a cozy escape. For an added treat, grab a drink at The Lodge Bar + Food Hall, where the holiday spirit is served alongside New York’s skyline views.
Union Square Holiday Market (Downtown Manhattan)
Voted one of the best holiday markets in America, the Union Square Holiday Market is a vibrant hub of creativity and holiday cheer. With over 185 vendors, it’s the ideal place to find handmade gifts, NYC-themed souvenirs, candles, prints, and cozy winter wear. Families will love the Kids’ Art Studio, and foodies can indulge in gourmet grilled cheese, hot apple cider, and warm donuts from local vendors.
Located in the heart of downtown, the market runs from mid-November through December 24, and the festive energy is infectious. Be sure to stop by the Little Brooklyn section for goods from local artisans and the Citi Warming Station for a quick thaw between shopping sprees. It’s a can’t-miss stop on any holiday itinerary, offering an authentic taste of the city’s creative pulse.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market (Central Park South)
Located at the southwest corner of Central Park, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market offers the perfect mix of charm, culture, and classic NYC holiday energy. Its rows of European-style booths feature everything from jewelry and handmade ornaments to art prints and wool scarves. The air is filled with the scent of hot cocoa and gingerbread, and there’s even a stall selling authentic Glühwein (hot mulled wine)—a rare treat in NYC.
This market is ideal for a festive afternoon after ice skating at Wollman Rink or exploring nearby landmarks like Lincoln Center and Fifth Avenue’s holiday windows. Open from early December until New Year’s Eve (December 31), it’s the perfect blend of holiday magic and Manhattan sophistication.
Grand Central Holiday Fair (Vanderbilt Hall)
When winter’s chill sets in, head indoors to the Grand Central Holiday Fair, one of New York’s most beloved and long-running markets. Set inside Vanderbilt Hall, this market features over 40 curated vendors offering high-quality gifts like glassware, toys, textiles, and artisanal skincare—all beneath Grand Central’s glittering chandeliers and iconic celestial ceiling.
The fair runs from November 10 through December 24, 2025, making it a cozy escape for holiday shopping or simply admiring the grandeur of one of NYC’s most famous landmarks. It’s stroller-friendly, warm, and less crowded than outdoor venues, making it perfect for families or anyone seeking a quieter shopping experience.
Oculus Holiday Market (World Trade Center)
For a sleek, modern take on the traditional Christmas market, visit the Holiday Market at The Oculus in the Westfield World Trade Center. With its futuristic white architecture and twinkling decorations, it’s one of the city’s most photogenic spots during the holidays. The market features about 20 specialty vendors selling gifts, ornaments, and festive foods—all within steps of major Lower Manhattan attractions.
This market typically runs from late October through early January, making it a great stop before or after visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum or Brookfield Place Light Displays. It’s also completely indoors, offering warmth, convenience, and plenty of holiday spirit without braving the cold.
Brooklyn & Queens Holiday Markets
If you’ve already explored Manhattan’s biggest markets, venture across the river to discover Brooklyn’s creative side. The FAD Holiday Market in DUMBO fills the historic Empire Stores building with handmade jewelry, art prints, and small-batch foods. It’s an indoor market, meaning you can browse comfortably and then grab lunch at Time Out Market or catch a winter sunset over the Manhattan Bridge.
Nearby, the Brooklyn Navy Yard Holiday Market and City Point Holiday Makers Show bring together 200+ local vendors, family activities, and festive entertainment. Queens also hosts its own gem—the Astoria Holiday Market at Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, known for its blend of crafts and classic Eastern European snacks.
Plan Your Market Route Like a Local
To make the most of your day, consider grouping nearby markets into mini walking routes:
Midtown Loop: Bryant Park → Grand Central → Fifth Avenue Windows → Columbus Circle
Downtown & Brooklyn Loop: Oculus → South Street Seaport → DUMBO/Empire Stores → Brooklyn Bridge
Use the subway to save time and energy—most markets are conveniently near major lines. Bring a reusable tote, wear comfortable shoes, and carry a portable charger for snapping photos and paying digitally.
Where to Stay Near the Markets
After a long day of festive exploring, unwind in a cozy hotel near the city’s best markets. Midtown hotels like Bryant Park Hotel, The Westin New York Grand Central, and citizenM Times Square put you right in the heart of the action. For a trendier stay, The Hoxton Williamsburg and 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge offer incredible skyline views and quick access to Brooklyn’s markets.
Read Next: [NYC Hotels for Christmas (2025)] — A full guide to the most festive hotels, neighborhoods, and exclusive VIP perks when you book with me.
Complete Your Holiday Itinerary
Pair your market visits with the city’s most magical light displays and winter attractions. Stroll Fifth Avenue’s window displays, skate at Rockefeller Center, or visit Dyker Heights for Brooklyn’s famous over-the-top Christmas lights.
Read Next: [The Ultimate NYC Holiday Travel Guide (2025)] — Complete itineraries, holiday lights maps, ice skating info, packing tips, and planning tools for your perfect New York Christmas trip.
FAQs — NYC Christmas Markets 2025
Are NYC Christmas markets free?
Yes! Entry to all markets is free. Only select activities, like ice skating rentals or igloo reservations at Bryant Park, have added costs.
When do NYC Christmas markets open in 2025?
Most markets open between October 24 (Bryant Park) and mid-November, running through Christmas Eve. Ice rinks often remain open through March.
Which NYC market is best for food?
Union Square and Bryant Park lead for food options, while Chelsea Market and DeKalb Market Hall are top indoor spots for holiday dining.
Are markets open on Christmas Day?
A few—like Bryant Park Winter Village and its ice rink—remain open, though with limited vendor hours. Always double-check each market’s official website before your visit.
Plan It, Book It, Enjoy It
New York City’s Christmas markets are pure magic—an enchanting mix of lights, music, food, and holiday spirit. From sipping hot cocoa at Bryant Park to wandering Union Square’s maze of artisan stalls, each market offers its own slice of festive joy. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full holiday trip, there’s no better way to experience NYC at its most dazzling.
Ready to start planning your trip? I can help you design your personalized NYC Christmas itinerary, including market routes, skating reservations, and VIP hotel perks when booking through me.
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