Credit: Marta Zielinska
What do you buy for the person who has everything? Holiday markets are sprouting up across New York, where local art, specialty crafts, and food and drink make the gift-giving season a breeze. Here are the markets to hit before the season’s over!
Originally published 11/16/2018
Connect with over 150+ local artisans over their crafts and stories at Union Square, a go-to spot for New Yorkers and travelers alike, where a plethora of vendors set up shop for the holidays. Open until December 24th, recent additions like Little Brooklyn, Urbanspace Provisions, a kid’s craft studio, live music, and a warming station make this market a destination in and of itself. Manhattan; weekdays 11am-8pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, and Sunday 11am-7pm through December 24, 2023. Closes at 4pm on December 24.
Credit: Marta Zielinska
Shop from the best artisans from New York City and around the world along Bryant Park’s allées, plazas, and terraces. Stroll through shops’ custom-designed, “jewel box” kiosks where you’re sure to find a gift for everyone. Before you head on your merry way be sure to check out the park’s ice skating rink or grab a hot cocoa to go. Manhattan; Monday-Friday 11am – 8pm and Saturday-Sunday 10am-8pm through January 2, 2024.
Credit: @bethelwoodscenter on Instagram
Bethel Woods’ Peace, Love, and Lights festival gets even better when you visit the holiday market on Saturdays in December. There will be live music, festive and delicious treats, and more than 75 local artisans and specialty food makers for holiday gifts, provisions and more. Bethel; December 9, 16, and 23, 2023 from 12pm-9pm.
Credit: Marta Zielinska
Celebrate six weeks of holiday magic and shopping small in Grand Central Terminal’s stunning Vanderbilt Hall. As you wander through the dazzling market you’ll find homemade bath products, knitwear, jewelry and art prints, gender-neutral accessories, ornaments, and homeware. New York City; Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm and Sunday 11am-6pm through December 24.
Credit: @troymarket on Instagram
Artists and craftsmen set up shop at Riverfront Park every Saturday, but the holidays give this market a special touch as it moves inside Troy Atrium from November until April. There’s no better gift than a handmade one and you’re sure to be captivated by impressive craftsmanship and ingenuity at this market. Choose from a vibrant array of homemade goods including intricate sun catchers, dazzling earrings, and hand-carved birdhouses. Troy; every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. Indoor market from November-April, riverfront market from May – October.
Credit: @artschatzllc on Instagram
Dive into the holiday spirit at the Shaker Holiday Market. Stroll through Shaker’s historic 1848 Meeting House and take a look at regional artists selling all kinds of goodies like handmade pottery, jewelry, and artisan foods. Shaker; Tuesday – Sunday 10am-4pm, through December 17.
You’re sure to find the perfect gift among the 400+ artisan vendors at the Buffalo Holiday Market. The annual holiday shopping festival lasts five weeks and features all kinds of goodies from unique decorations and gifts to fresh baked goods. If you need to refuel from all the shopping, rent a heated igloo and enjoy a warm hot chocolate or a mulled wine from the Winery of Ellicottville. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Santa! Buffalo; open various days through December 23, 2023.
Horse-drawn carriage rides and visits with Santa are just some of the special treats you’ll find at this festive market decked out with bright holiday lights. Browse dozens of vendors selling art, artisan crafts, holiday food delicacies, stocking stuffers, and more every year. Rochester; December 3, December 10, December 14, 2023 from 8 am to 2 pm.
Old Bethpage lights up their historic village for eight nights of music, holiday treats and craft fair shopping. Experience the village as it would appear back in the day for a classic Christmas of brass ensemble performances, caroling, and art browsing. Bethpage; December 21-23, 26-29, 2018 from 5– 9:30 pm. Tickets range from $15-$20.
Main Street storefronts are transformed into pop-up shops where local artisans, crafters, and artists set up for holiday shopping. Indulge in downtown’s art and craftsman scene where you’ll find the unique, one-of-a-kind gifts you’ve been searching for including local wine and spirits, handmade clothing and accessories, delicious food, and more. Vendors include Buffalo; Through December 21, 2023
60 local artisans gather at Arts Mid-Hudson for the Dutchess Handmade Pop Up. You’ll have no problem finding a unique gift for your loved ones as you peruse handmade jewelry, ceramics, paintings, home decor, and more. Poughkeepsie; Tuesday – Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday 10am-2pm until December 16.
Share New York State adventures with us on Instagram and Twitter with #iSpyNY and #ILoveNY and tag us on Facebook!
