Union Square Holiday Market

The smell of roasting nuts and hot apple cider wafts through the air as eager crowds elbow their way from one cozy stall to the next. No proper New York City Christmas Bucket List is complete without a visit to the Union Square Holiday Market.

Personally speaking, a proper New York City Christmas doesn’t kick off until I find myself bundled up at the Union Square Holiday Market with a hot chocolate in tow. Home to more than 150 vendors, the market can feel overwhelming if you visit during the weekends (and weekdays after 5pm) because of the crowds.

However, if you’re looking for free things to do during Christmas in NYC then you simply can’t skip it. This is the perfect place to stock up on unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs or simply window shop too.

Inspired by Germany’s storied Christmas markets, Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) is always guaranteed. The intoxicating aromas of roasted nuts and hot cider waft through the air as eager crowds make their way from one wooden house stall to the next.

The intoxicating aroma of roasting nuts and hot apple cider wafts through the air as crowds of eager locals and tourists rub elbows in search of handmade gifts. Home to more than 160 vendors, Union Square’s holiday market is the largest in the city. Stop by while visiting New York City for Thanksgiving to pick up some unique NYC souvenirs.