Christmas Markets New York 2025: Top Festive Events and Shopping Destinations
Table of Contents
- 1 Find the Best Accommodations
- 2 41) Washington Square Christmas Market
- 3 42) Winter Solstice Event at St. John the Divine Cathedral
- 4 43) Holiday Shopping at Wollman Rink
- 5 44) Fort Greene Park Holiday Market
- 6 45) Central Park Zoo Holiday Crafts Market
- 7 46) Holiday Lights at Bronx Zoo
- 8 47) Atlantic Terminal Mall Holiday Market
- 9 48) WNYC’s Annual Holiday Book Sale
- 10 49) Holiday Open House at Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
- 11 50) El Museo del Barrio’s Coqui Club Holiday Event
Find the Best Accommodations
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41) Washington Square Christmas Market
The Washington Square Christmas Market pops up right in Washington Square Park. You can’t miss the landmark arch, and strings of bright lights set the mood.
Handmade jewelry, ceramics, and art fill the stalls, all from local vendors. If you’re after unique gifts, this place stands out from the usual store options.
Musicians often play holiday music as you wander. Sometimes you’ll catch live singers too, sharing favorite seasonal songs.
The market feels super family-friendly, so bring friends or kids along. Food stalls serve up seasonal treats—think hot chocolate and baked snacks.
You can visit from late November through December. It’s open every day, and there’s no entry fee.
| Dates | Address | Times | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Late November – December | Washington Square Park | 10 am – 6 pm | Free | Hotels near Washington Square Park | Washington Square Christmas Market |
42) Winter Solstice Event at St. John the Divine Cathedral
Every December, you can join a different kind of holiday event at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in New York City.
The Winter Solstice gathering brings together live music, dance, and visual displays. The Paul Winter Consort leads the show, blending world music styles and instruments.
Their music fills the massive cathedral, taking advantage of the acoustics and the space. You’ll see the cathedral’s huge interior come alive with sound, movement, and light.
The performance marks the longest night of the year, mixing cultural traditions both old and new. The crowd is always a mix of locals and visitors, all sharing the same experience.
Seating is assigned, with tickets starting at $30 and varying by location. If you’re staying overnight, check Booking.com hotels near the cathedral.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 19, 20, 21, 2025 | 1047 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025 | 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Starting at $30, varies by seating option | Booking.com: St. John hotels | Winter Solstice Information |
43) Holiday Shopping at Wollman Rink
In December, the Holiday Shop at Wollman Rink brings the holiday spirit right to Central Park.
You can visit the rink to skate or just browse the collection of stalls. Each vendor brings something different—handmade gifts, seasonal ornaments, and local snacks.
The decorations, music, and city skyline create a one-of-a-kind shopping vibe. The Holiday Shop stays open for a few weeks in December.
You don’t need to pay to enter the shopping area, but shopping and skating do cost extra. Take your time, look for gifts, or just enjoy a snack.
This market is easy to visit after a skate or while you’re sightseeing in the park.
| Dates | Location | Times | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 4 – Dec 24, 2025 | Central Park | Varies | Free entry; shopping and skating prices vary | Nearby hotels on Booking.com | Wollman Rink Holiday Shop |
44) Fort Greene Park Holiday Market
At the Fort Greene Park Holiday Market, you’ll find handmade goods from local artists and makers. This outdoor market lets you shop for unique jewelry, art, and home decorations.
Brooklyn artisans craft many of the products, so it’s easy to support small businesses. Live music and food stalls add to the festive mood.
Hot drinks and sweet treats are always around as you wander between booths. If you’re bringing kids, you’ll usually spot family-friendly activities like crafts and story time.
Here’s what you need to know, plus local accommodation options:
| Dates | Location Address | Times | Cost | Nearby Stays (Booking.com) | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBD | Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, NY | TBD | Free Entry | Hotels near Fort Greene | Fort Greene Park Holiday Market |
You’ll find everything you need for a local holiday experience right in the heart of Brooklyn. Take your time, explore the market, and enjoy the festivities with your family.
45) Central Park Zoo Holiday Crafts Market
During winter, the Central Park Zoo Holiday Crafts Market feels like a lively spot for original, handmade items. Talented vendors fill their stalls with crafts—knitted scarves, unique ornaments, and other holiday goods.
You can browse, shop, and pick out gifts made with care by local creators. Hands-on craft stations let you create your own decorations, and families often stop by to work on projects together.
It’s easy to make holiday memories while staying active at the market. The crowd can be a mix of families, couples, and solo visitors, all getting in on the interactive fun.
While you’re there, try some classic snacks and hot drinks. The food options add warmth to your visit and give you a break from walking.
Many guests also check out the Central Park Zoo itself, combining animal exhibits with holiday shopping. Holiday music plays in the background, giving your visit a cheerful soundtrack and helping you make the most of the season.
| Dates | Address | Times | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 1–24, 2025 | Central Park Zoo, New York, NY | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Entry free; Zoo tickets may apply | Hotels near Central Park Zoo | Central Park Zoo Crafts Fair |
46) Holiday Lights at Bronx Zoo
Every winter, the Bronx Zoo lights up for the holidays. From November 22, 2024, through January 5, 2025, you’ll see colorful lights, illuminated animal sculptures, and special decorations strung along the main paths.
Custom lanterns shaped like animals brighten the walkways. Animated light shows really add to the festive vibe.
Most people show up in the evening, right after the lights switch on. It’s a favorite for families who want something easy and fun during the holidays.
The zoo also hosts Sensory-Friendly Nights on select dates. Staff turn down the music and try to keep things quieter, so everyone feels welcome.
You can stroll with a hot drink, run into costumed entertainers, and join interactive zones scattered around the park. There’s always something going on.
Here’s a quick table with the main event info:
| Dates | Address | Times | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 22, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025 | Bronx Zoo, New York | 3 PM–9 PM | Adults $41.95; Seniors $36.95; Children $26.95–$31.95 | Find hotels near Bronx Zoo on Booking.com | Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights |
You’ll need to book your tickets in advance. Check the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights page for the latest details and guidelines.
47) Atlantic Terminal Mall Holiday Market
The Atlantic Terminal Mall Holiday Market pops up every December in Brooklyn. This indoor market has a little bit of everything—holiday gifts, food, and plenty of local flavor.
Vendors set up with handmade crafts, jewelry, and festive decorations. You’ll also find seasonal snacks and sweet treats to nibble while you shop.
Families like bringing their kids here. There are activities just for children and spots to snap photos with themed backgrounds.
Getting here is easy since the market sits inside a busy shopping center. Public transit stops right outside, so there’s no hassle.
If you’re thinking of stopping by, here’s what you need to know:
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 1-24, 2025 | 139 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217 | Mon-Sun: 10 am – 8 pm | Free entry | Hotels near Atlantic Terminal on Booking.com | Atlantic Terminal Mall Holiday Market |
For holiday shopping in Brooklyn, it’s a solid pick—especially if you want easy access and a laid-back vibe.
48) WNYC’s Annual Holiday Book Sale
What You Should Know
WNYC’s Annual Holiday Book Sale brings together a huge variety of books. You’ll find options for all ages, from new releases to used favorites.
There’s fiction, non-fiction, cookbooks, and plenty for kids. It’s honestly a great spot to grab a gift or just something new for your own shelf.
If you like author events, you might meet local writers who sign books or do readings. It’s a nice way to connect with the people behind your favorite stories.
The whole thing feels cozy. Hot cocoa and snacks are usually on hand, which helps set the mood.
You can browse at your own pace and chat with other book lovers. Plus, your purchases help support public radio—a nice bonus.
Details for Your Visit
| Date | Time | Address | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 7, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 160 Varick St, New York, NY 10013 | Free entry | Hotels near 160 Varick St on Booking.com | WNYC Holiday Book Sale information |
49) Holiday Open House at Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
If you want a festive evening in the Bronx, check out the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum’s Holiday First Friday. The mansion sits in Pelham Bay Park and gets fully decked out for the season.
Music is a major part of the night. The MetropoliTones perform live a cappella songs as you wander through the rooms.
You can explore the grounds, peek into historic rooms, and spot wreaths, lights, and classic holiday displays.
The main house is a National Historic Landmark, and you can walk through the gardens or check out the carriage house. The event welcomes everyone—families, couples, even solo guests.
Entry fees depend on your membership. Heritage group members get in free. Others pay between $5 and $15, with discounts for students and seniors.
Here’s the event info at a glance:
| Date | Address | Time | Prices | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 1 | 895 Shore Road, Pelham Bay Park, Bronx, NY 10464 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Heritage Member: Free, Friend Member: $5.00, Not-Yet-Member Student/Senior: $10.00, Not-Yet-Member Adult: $15.00 | Pelham Garden Motel | Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum Holiday First Friday |
Check ticket details before you go, and maybe look at nearby places to stay if you want to make a night of it.
50) El Museo del Barrio’s Coqui Club Holiday Event
Key Information About the Coqui Club Holiday Gathering
Families searching for seasonal activities in New York can swing by El Museo del Barrio’s Coqui Club Holiday Event in 2025. Kids get to do hands-on crafts and holiday-themed activities.
The event encourages children to make decorations, play simple games, and learn about cultural celebrations. Staff members guide everything and keep the atmosphere friendly.
You can tour the museum’s exhibits while your kids work on projects. This event is especially good for younger children and lets families experience local traditions together.
Admission is free, so you don’t have to worry about tickets.
| Date | Time | Location | Admission | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 18, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM | 1230 Fifth Avenue, NY 10029 | Free | Hotels near El Museo del Barrio | El Museo del Barrio’s Coqui Club details |
You don’t need to sign up in advance. All materials are provided, and the event’s easy pace makes it a stress-free addition to your holiday plans.
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.