It wouldn’t be Christmas in New York City without its holiday markets!
The largest NYC holiday market is at Union Square, boasting over 150 vendors selling unique items created by local artists.
Here you can shop for all sorts of interesting items, enjoy delicious food, and take in the holiday spirit.
This market is charming after dark when the lit-up stalls create a wonderful atmosphere.
Where and When
The Union Square Holiday Market is located in Union Square Park which covers the area from 14th to 17th Streets between Broadway and Union Square East (map).
In 2023, the dates are November 16 to December 24. The market is closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 23rd.
The market runs on weekdays from 11 am to 8 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 7 pm.
On Christmas Eve, December 24, the market closes at 4 pm.
If you need to do more shopping, there are some great stores in the Union Square area.
Feel like discovering the neighborhood? See our Union Square Self-Guided Tour.
Shopping
Unlike most of the other NYC holiday markets, the Union Square Holiday Market is known for its eclectic array of stalls.
You can find unusual and very creative items here like these kits to make your very own water tower, an icon of New York City rooftops!
If you like owls, you have come to the right place.
Follow your nose to the large stall with dozens of fresh spices and teas.
There are plenty of traditional goods to buy as well, like jewelry, stationary, artwork, clothing, and accessories.
There is no shortage of fun stuff for the kids!
The list goes on and on! Home decor, bath and body goods, candles, novelty items for the holidays, gifts for your furry friends, and more.
You can check the list of vendors here.
Food
The Union Square Holiday Market has food stalls selling ethnic foods, like Venezuelan arepas, Ukrainian pierogis, Italian rice balls, German pretzels, Chinese bao, and more.
There are several excellent chocolates and sweets stalls.
Of course, there's hot chocolate, hot cider, and even Glühwein, a German warm, mulled wine spiced with cinnamon and sugar.
More Things To Do This Holiday
There’s so much to do in NYC during the holiday season. You can see special Christmas shows, go ice skating, and visit the department store window displays.
Don't forget to visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree!
Consider joining our pay-what-you-wish Holiday Lights and Window Displays Tour where we lead you to the best lights to see.
Take a look at our detailed guide to Christmas in New York City to find out about many more holiday activities.
