Central Park Holiday Market New York City
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Central Park Holiday Market New York City

4.4
·480 reviews·New York, United States

A vibrant holiday market at Central Park's edge, featuring 100+ artisans selling crafts, art, home goods, and global cuisine.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Central Park Holiday Market New York City

Central Park Holiday Market New York City

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant holiday market at Central Park's edge, featuring 100+ artisans selling crafts, art, home goods, and global cuisine.

4.4
(480 reviews)

"This is exactly what I think of when I think of a Holiday Market! I spoke with some wonderful makers and bought some fun things!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go on a Weekday

Avoid weekend crowds for a more enjoyable browsing and shopping experience.

💸 Sample Before You Buy

Many food vendors offer samples, so try before committing to a purchase.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisan Crafts & Unique Gifts

Artisan Crafts & Unique Gifts

Discover handmade jewelry, home decor, art, and more from over 100 local artisans. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind holiday presents.

TikTok
Global Flavors & Festive Treats

Global Flavors & Festive Treats

Indulge in a diverse culinary journey with everything from gourmet waffles and empanadas to mulled wine and hot chocolate.

TikTokReddit
Central Park Ambiance

Central Park Ambiance

Nestled at the edge of Central Park, the market offers a festive atmosphere with live music and holiday decorations.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Find Hidden Gems

This market can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a more relaxed experience. Look for unique artisan crafts and local food vendors often missed in the rush. TikTok

Budget-Friendly Bites & Unique Finds

While some food items can be pricey, many vendors offer delicious treats at reasonable prices. Keep an eye out for artisans selling handmade gifts, which can be more exclusive than mass-produced items. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (early)
Why
Festive lights, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Busiest, most vibrant
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10 things we ate at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market by @urbanspacemarkets 👇🏾 1. Dubai Chocolate Waffle @wafflesanddinges 2. Shrimp Tempura Taco at Chubby Taco 3. Cheeseburger and Sirloin Cheesesteak Empanadas from @empanadaladynj 4. Fettuccine Alfredo @cheesewheelpastas 5. Oreo S’mores Crepe @cuddle_crepes 6. Halloumi Fries & Feta Cubes @oveliapsistaria 7. Black Sugar Boba Croffle at Hudson...
@thebrunchguy
1.3K likes • 27.1K views

🎯 Go on a Weekday

Avoid weekend crowds for a more enjoyable browsing and shopping experience. TikTokReddit

💸 Sample Before You Buy

Many food vendors offer samples, so try before committing to a purchase. Reddit

✨ The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is officially back for the season and here’s everything I ate & shopped on a recent adventure (accompanied by live music from @Jazz at Lincoln Center)! Food: ☕️ @No chewing allowed! 🍟 @Ovelia Psistaria Bar 🍜 Happy L 🍓 Orchard 🍩 @Casa Toscana NYC Gifts: 🧴@Adirondack Fragrance Farm 🍿@doosra 🪷 @I.E. Spa Indulgences 🧦 Karepango 📍 Columbus Circle Holiday Ma...
@adventurous_anders
47 likes • 1.7K views
This Christmas Market in NYC is a local favorite. Even after living here for 3 decades, I always stop by this holiday market for a stroll. It's also SO much calmer than Bryant Park. The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is at 59th Street right along the Columbus Circle entrance to Central Park. There are 100+ stalls with food, home goods, clothes, games, ornaments, and unique gifts. The market runs f...
@theglobetrottingteacher
135 likes • 10.1K views

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Check the schedule for live performances, often featuring local jazz musicians. TikTok

🎁 Unique Artisan Finds

Look for handmade items from small businesses for truly special gifts. TikTokReddit

NYC's #1 Underrated Market is open NOW...🎄—📍Columbus Circle Holiday Market by @urbanspacemarkets @nycparks WHAT TO EAT👇🏼 follow for NYC life inspo 🤌🏼 open Dec. 3 (11-8pm) to Dec. 31, 2024, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market offers 100+ artisans selling food, home goods, jewelry, art, etc. 🕯️🖼️ HOURS: Mon-Sat 11am-8pm Sunday 11am-7pm *closes early on Christmas Eve at 4pm & closed on Christmas day ...
@explorewithdasom
552 likes • 21.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go on a Weekday

Avoid weekend crowds for a more enjoyable browsing and shopping experience. TikTokReddit

💸 Sample Before You Buy

Many food vendors offer samples, so try before committing to a purchase. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Check the schedule for live performances, often featuring local jazz musicians. TikTok

🎁 Unique Artisan Finds

Look for handmade items from small businesses for truly special gifts. TikTokReddit

☕ Grab a Warm Drink

Sip on mulled wine or rich hot chocolate to stay warm while exploring. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(480 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Columbus Circle Holiday Market for its festive atmosphere, diverse artisan crafts, and delicious food options, noting it's often less crowded than other NYC markets. Some find food prices high and vendor overlap with other markets, but the overall experience is highly rated for holiday cheer and unique finds. Reddit+1

"This is exactly what I think of when I think of a Holiday Market! I spoke with some wonderful makers and bought some fun things!
The lady selling the Japanese paper earrings was our favorite! Her earrings are so fun and we purchased 3 pairs! She explained to our kids the meaning behind several of the patterns used in Japanese culture. She was so lively and I would visit again just to talk to her!
We sampled Manor Sangria- so delicious! The gentleman that I spoke to was so warm and friendly. I didn't want to carry the jar around the city all day so I followed them on Instagram, only to find out they don't ship to my location. I was kicking myself for not buying it then. I went back the next day and bought some though!
The lady selling her soaps that she make was friendly and talkative as well. She does ship to my location so I cannot wait to buy some in the future!
All in all this is a wonderful market that you will absolutely find something for yourself and others!"

Shanyn Blanck

"It’s like Bryant, except you’re walking around in a circle and no ice skating rink. Food equally overpriced. I didn’t see many small businesses that were exclusive to Columbus; they were at Bryant and Union Square as well. Union Square is still my favorite holiday market."

Sterling Hitchcock

"The market is like a maze but fairly small so not too hard to navigate. It's relatively much less crowded, which is a relief. You can actually enjoy the market without getting jostled and buy things without waiting in a long line. It's decorated cutely with wreaths and lights. But most of the food is way overpriced and so not worth it. So you could visit for the experience and ambiance."

Arushi Bhattacharya

What People Like

Festive atmosphere
Unique artisan crafts
Diverse food vendors

What People Dislike

Overpriced food
Vendor overlap

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is conveniently located at Columbus Circle, right at the southwest corner of Central Park. You can easily reach it via the A, B, C, D, 1, 2, or 3 subway lines to the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station. TikTok

Parking in this area of Manhattan can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation. If you must drive, look for parking garages in the vicinity, but be prepared for high fees. TikTok

Yes, the market is easily accessible on foot from many Midtown attractions. It's a pleasant walk from Times Square or a great starting point for exploring Central Park. TikTok

The most direct subway lines are the A, B, C, D, 1, 2, and 3 trains, all stopping at 59th Street-Columbus Circle. TikTok

The market is generally accessible, though pathways can be narrow and crowded at peak times. The ground is paved, making it manageable for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is free. You only pay for the food and items you purchase from the vendors. TikTok

The market typically runs from early December through December 31st. Hours are generally Monday-Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 7 pm, though hours can vary slightly each year and may close early on holidays. TikTok+1

The market usually opens in early December and runs until December 31st. Always check the official UrbanSpace Markets website for the most up-to-date dates. TikTok

Yes, the market often features live music, particularly jazz performances from Jazz at Lincoln Center, adding to the festive ambiance. TikTok

Weekdays are significantly less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience for browsing and shopping. Weekends are much busier but offer a more vibrant, bustling atmosphere. TikTokReddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors

You'll find a wide array of goods, including handmade jewelry, art, home decor, clothing, accessories, artisanal food products, and unique gifts from over 100 vendors. TikTok+1

Many vendors are local artisans and small businesses from New York and the surrounding regions, offering unique, handcrafted items. TikTokReddit

While some vendors may also be at other markets like Bryant Park or Union Square, you can often find unique pieces and discover new artisans. Reddit+1

Popular vendors often include those selling gourmet waffles, empanadas, unique jewelry, and artisanal food products like sangria or specialty chocolates. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! It's an excellent place to find unique, handcrafted Christmas gifts for everyone on your list. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The food selection is diverse, featuring international cuisine like shrimp tempura tacos, cheesesteak empanadas, fettuccine alfredo, dumplings, and festive treats like crepes and waffles. TikTok+1

Food prices can be on the higher side, typical for holiday markets in NYC. However, many visitors find the quality and unique offerings worth the cost. Reddit+1

Yes, you can find vegetarian and vegan options, including items like halloumi fries, various crepes, and some dumpling varieties. It's always best to ask vendors directly about ingredients. TikTok

Highly recommended items include Dubai Chocolate Waffles, shrimp tempura tacos, fettuccine alfredo, Oreo s'mores crepes, and truffle fries. TikTok+1

Yes, vendors offer hot beverages like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and coffee, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the festive atmosphere with shots of the stalls adorned with lights and decorations, the bustling crowds (if you enjoy that vibe), and the iconic Columbus Circle monument. TikTok

Visiting during off-peak hours (weekday mornings) makes it much easier to take photos without getting in the way of shoppers or vendors. Reddit

Late afternoon into early evening offers a magical glow as the market lights up, creating a festive ambiance. Daytime provides good natural light for product shots. TikTok

The market's location at the edge of Central Park provides opportunities for photos with a park backdrop. Also, look for uniquely decorated stalls or visually appealing food items. TikTok

For low light, use a higher ISO and a wider aperture if your camera allows. On smartphones, utilize night mode or portrait mode for enhanced detail and bokeh effects. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a fun outing for families, offering a festive atmosphere and a variety of treats that kids will love. The market's layout is manageable for strollers, and the open space at Columbus Circle provides room to maneuver. TikTokReddit

Look for kid-friendly food options like waffles, crepes, and hot chocolate. Many vendors also offer unique toys and crafts that can make for delightful souvenirs. Visiting on a weekday morning is highly recommended to avoid overwhelming crowds and ensure a more pleasant experience for younger children. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While some items at the market can be pricey, budget-conscious visitors can still enjoy the experience. Focus on affordable treats like a cup of mulled wine or a single crepe, rather than full meals. Reddit

Consider browsing the stalls for unique, smaller gift items or simply soak in the festive ambiance without making purchases. Many vendors offer visually appealing displays that are enjoyable to photograph even if you're not buying. Reddit+1

couples

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market offers a romantic and festive setting for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand through the stalls, share a warm drink like mulled wine, and discover unique gifts together. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting in the early evening as the market lights up, creating a magical atmosphere. The live music often adds to the romantic ambiance, making it a perfect date spot during the holiday season. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Columbus Circle Holiday Market

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market, managed by UrbanSpace Markets, is a popular destination for holiday shopping and festive treats. It's known for its curated selection of over 100 vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to international cuisine. Unlike some other larger markets, it's laid out in a circular fashion, which can make it feel a bit like a maze but also keeps it relatively contained. TikTokReddit

Key to a good visit is timing. Weekdays, especially mornings, offer a much more relaxed experience, allowing you to browse at your own pace and chat with vendors. Weekends are significantly busier, with a lively but often crowded atmosphere. If you're looking for a more intimate shopping experience, aim for a weekday. TikTokReddit

Pro-tip: While the market is free to enter, be prepared for potentially higher prices on food and goods, which is common for such events. However, the quality and uniqueness of many items, especially from local artisans, can make it worthwhile. Reddit+1

Culinary Delights at the Market

The food scene at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a major draw, offering a diverse range of flavors from around the world. You can find everything from decadent desserts like chocolate waffles and crepes to savory international dishes such as shrimp tempura tacos, cheesesteak empanadas, and various dumplings. TikTok+1

Many visitors rave about specific vendors, highlighting items like truffle fries from Bel-Fries, jerk chicken platters, and rich hot chocolate from 'No Chewing Allowed.' The market is also a great place to grab a warm beverage, with mulled wine and coffee being popular choices to combat the winter chill. TikTokReddit

While prices can be a bit steep, as is typical for NYC holiday markets, the opportunity to sample unique treats and enjoy festive flavors makes it a worthwhile culinary adventure. It's advisable to explore a bit before settling on your first food purchase, and don't hesitate to ask vendors if they offer samples. Reddit+1

Shopping for Unique Gifts

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a treasure trove for finding unique, handcrafted gifts. With over 100 vendors, you'll discover a wide array of items, from intricate jewelry and artisanal home decor to custom clothing and unique art pieces. TikTok+1

Many visitors highlight the opportunity to connect with the makers themselves, learning about the inspiration and craftsmanship behind their products. This personal touch adds significant value to the shopping experience, making it ideal for finding meaningful presents. Reddit

While you might see some vendors also present at other New York City holiday markets, the curated selection at Columbus Circle often includes exclusive finds. It's a fantastic place for last-minute holiday shopping or simply to find a special memento of your visit. Reddit+1