One day it feels like May, the next December. Does anyone else have whiplash yet? The weather may be throwing us all in a tizzy, but the holidays are right around the corner. Put away those pumpkins and pumpkin spice lattes to make way for peppermint paddies, mochas, letters to Santa Claus, and my personal favorite, holiday markets.
Anyone who has been to Europe during the holidays has undoubtedly come across the quaint and festive holiday markets. NYC has several pop-up markets inspired by the charm and holiday spirit of those in Europe.
I don’t think I can emphasize how much I love these markets. They are a wonderful spot to find a beautiful gift for your best friend, that oddly specific quirky gift for your partner, or a handwoven basket for your picky aunt. These holiday markets have the lights, charm, hot drinks, and festive feel. If you ever wanted to live in a Hallmark movie, then this is where you need to be, baby!
Grab your favorite mittens and coat (assuming it gets cold enough) because you’ll need them for all your Instagram stories. It doesn’t even matter when you go, just go. You’ll find a pleasant and less crowded experience in the middle of a Monday. The soft winter sun creates a brisk to-do-list kind of feeling. A weekend night might be more accessible, but you will be battling more crowds. Whether attending the markets in the day or evening, you will leave with holiday spirit or bruised elbows. Perhaps even both.
The Union Square Holiday Market is located at Union Square. There isn’t a more accessible spot in the city, so excuses are non-negotiable. The green-roofed wood chalets create twisting and winding paths that remind me of old German towns. Spend hours here gawking at the gorgeous crafts and eat your fill of the delicious snacks offered by the vendors.
This spot is known as The Bank of America Winter Village in Bryant Park. It is one of the longest markets, running well into the new year. This is your classic NYC holiday feel. The glass-plated shop makes a ring around Bryant park which has transformed into an ice skating rink. Take a few turns around the shops, sipping hot chocolate, or sit for a break in one of the cozy igloos. You can watch the skaters in the rink or rent skates and give it a go. Ice Skating is free. You can bring your own skates or rent them at the rink.
For those, a bit further uptown, check out the market at Columbus Circle in the southwestern corner. It is the Union Square Market partner, both run by Urban Space. This popup market has a more intimate feeling and is nestled against Central Park. While shopping, your eyes, and stomach will feast on all the spectacular and unique wares the kiosks have to offer. Shop for a while and then take a stroll through the park.
Tucked under the iconic Grand Central station is this delightful market. It’s the ideal place to hit up when waiting for that train upstate or if it’s frigid outside. Plus, who doesn’t love a moment to gaze at the star-scape in the station? I always feel like I’ve stepped into a 1940’s film when I shop here. I’m waiting for a train to take me to my white Christmas upstate and just picking up a few last-minute gifts. It is a jolly extravaganza that you shouldn’t miss.
This is not a holiday market per se, but if you haven’t taken a moment to check out the Brooklyn Flea market, we can no longer be friends. There is no better place to find that one-of-a-kind vintage item or look. Plus, it’s in Brooklyn, so if you dislike coming to Manhattan (and who can blame you), then perhaps give this one a whirl. It is located under the DUMBO arch and there is a gorgeous Christmas tree, photo opportunities for Santa’s elves, and a Kris Kringle box for all your letters.
In a similar vane, there is the Chelsea Flea, another gem that should take all my money right now. First opened in 1976, the Chelsea Flea Market has a long history in the neighborhood, and many famous people have perused the vendors over the years. I shut down for a time but re-opened the parking lot at 29th West 25th Street with renewed vigor.
Criollas at Columbus Circle Holiday Market in 2021: secretnyc.co
(November 28–December 26)
I’m stoked about this one. I am a Brooklynite, and while I love going to Manhattan, this is WAY closer to me and my fuzzy socks and blankets. Downtown Brooklyn is fun on a typical day, but with the addition of lights, beautiful wares, and hot apple cider, my wallet just got a bit lighter. If it’s anything like the other pop-up markets, I’m sure it will be dazzling and filled with holiday cheer.
Lydia loves all things stories. She moved to NYC to be in the film-making industry but realized she liked stories more than film so she went back to school to study mythology. When not immersed in dusty old tomes and writing, she wanders around NYC, gazing and imagining all the people and stories that have happened. She lives in Brooklyn with her very needy and chatty cat Coco.
