A New Yorker's Guide to the Best Christmas Markets and Festivals

New York in the wintertime is a magical and enchanting experience. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered streets, festive decorations, and holiday cheer around every corner. From ice skating in Central Park to the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, there's no shortage of things to do and see in New York during the winter season.

As the holiday season approaches, New Yorkers start to get into the festive spirit. One of the best ways to get into the holiday mood is to visit one of the city's many Christmas markets and festivals. These markets and festivals offer a wide variety of holiday-themed activities, from shopping for unique gifts to enjoying festive food and drinks.

1. Union Square Holiday Market: Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Union Square Holiday Market is a festive destination for holiday shopping and fun. With more than 100 vendors selling unique gifts, food, and drink, there's something for everyone at this market. You can also enjoy live entertainment and holiday workshops.
2. Winter Village at Bryant Park: This winter wonderland features a beautiful ice skating rink, holiday shops, and a variety of festive food and drinks options. You can also catch live music and other entertainment throughout the season.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Located near Central Park, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market offers a variety of handmade gifts, clothing, and accessories. You can also sample delicious food from local vendors and enjoy live performances.
4. Christmas in the Park: This annual event in Central Park is a beloved tradition for many New Yorkers. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with lights, music, and holiday activities for all ages.
5. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: While not technically a market or festival, the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are a must-see holiday attraction. This Brooklyn neighborhood is known for its extravagant holiday light displays, with many homes and businesses decked out in colorful lights and decorations.
6. Grand Central Holiday Fair: This holiday fair is held in the iconic Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan and features a variety of unique gifts and crafts from local vendors. You can also enjoy holiday-themed food and drink, as well as live entertainment.
7. Astoria Holiday Market: This market is held in the historic Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden in the Queens neighborhood of Astoria. It features a variety of holiday gifts and crafts, as well as food and drinks from local vendors.
8. Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden: This annual event is a favorite among families and features model trains traveling through a miniature version of New York City, complete with iconic landmarks made out of plant materials.
9. Holiday Market at the Brooklyn Flea: This popular flea market in Brooklyn features a special holiday market during the season, with vendors selling a wide variety of unique gifts, crafts, and food.
10. The Holiday Shops at Brookfield Place: This upscale mall in Lower Manhattan features a holiday market with a variety of high-end gifts and crafts, as well as holiday-themed food and drink options. You can also enjoy live entertainment and other holiday activities.

If you’re visiting New York for the holidays, here are a few of the places to stay overnight that will greet you with the Christmas spirit:

The Plaza Hotel: Located in the heart of Manhattan, The Plaza Hotel is a luxurious and iconic option for those looking to enjoy the winter season in New York. The hotel features beautiful holiday decorations and a variety of festive activities, making it a perfect choice for a winter holiday in the city.

1. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park: This elegant hotel offers stunning views of Central Park, which is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The Ritz-Carlton also features a variety of holiday activities and amenities, making it a great choice for a luxurious winter getaway.
2. The Iroquois New York: This stylish boutique hotel is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, near many of the city's most popular holiday attractions. The Iroquois offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a more intimate winter holiday in New York.
3. The Knickerbocker Hotel: This historic hotel is located in Times Square and offers a variety of luxurious amenities and services. During the holiday season, the hotel is decorated with festive lights and decorations, making it a perfect choice for those looking to experience the excitement of New York during the winter.
4. The Baccarat Hotel & Residences: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, near many of the city's most popular holiday attractions. The Baccarat offers a luxurious and refined atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a sophisticated winter holiday in New York.

No matter which Christmas markets and festivals you choose to visit, you're sure to experience the joy and magic of the season in New York City. Let’s get to the not-so-fun part, organizing your trip to New York. But we assume that with a bit of help on our part, things will get easier. Here are our top tips:

1. Plan ahead: The holiday season is a popular time to visit New York, so it's important to plan your trip in advance. Book your flights and accommodations early to get the best deals and avoid the rush.
2. Be prepared for crowds: New York City can be crowded at the best of times, and the holiday season is no exception. Be prepared for large crowds at popular attractions and events, and consider visiting off-peak hours and booking a professional car service in New York to avoid stressful traffic.
3. Dress for the weather: New York can be cold and snowy during the holiday season, so be sure to pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes. Don't forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf to keep warm while exploring the city.
4. Stay safe: As with any trip, it's important to stay safe while visiting New York. Be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid walking alone at night.
5. Have fun: Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the holiday season in New York! Whether you're visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree or exploring one of the many Christmas markets and festivals, there's plenty to see and do in the city. Happy holidays!