People travel from all over the world to visit New York State during the holiday season. Whether the idyllic countryside of upstate New York tickles your fancy or the heart of Times Square is beckoning you for an afternoon of ice skating, there’s something for everyone here. We’ve found the best Christmas markets in New York state that’ll put everyone in the holiday spirit.
Grab a cup of eggnog and pack your bags! Here are the top eight markets!
1. Holidays in the Market
Located off of Broadway in the city of Buffalo, Holidays in the Market dates back to the 1800s. Here you will find a variety of vendors, local artisans, and festive food. This is the perfect place to grab unique gifts for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list.
Don’t forget to bring your child to meet Santa and enjoy the holiday train show. This market typically runs from the middle of November through the month of December.
2. Christmas in the Country
For three days in November, the city of Rochester turns into a cheerful festival destination. Christmas in the Country is located in the Rochester Dome Arena. There are more than 200 vendors to choose from when shopping here. Many of these artists make jewelry, candles, pottery, and wall art by hand.
There are also delicious food and wine gifts available here.
3. Christkindlmarkt
Next, travel to Poughkeepsie to experience what the holidays are like in Germany. People from all over the state go to the Christkindlmarkt for an unforgettable experience. Here you’ll be able to try a variety of classic German food that is served during Christmas.
There are mouth-watering baked goods, tasty beverages, and no shortage of goodies to buy. This Christmas market in New York typically runs from the end of November through December.
4. Italian Christmas Market
Make your way around the world simply by visiting Albany. The Italian Christmas Market in New York is held at the Italian American Heritage Museum. There seems to be a never-ending list of festive goods to pick up here.
From authentic olive oil to cheerful decorations to tasty candies, there’s no shortage of Italian inspiration. We highly recommend checking out the nativity exhibit which is a tradition lasting over 100 years.
5. St. John’s Christmas Fair
Another amazing Christmas market in New York is in the town of Huntingdon. The St. John’s Christmas Fair is one of the most secular holiday celebrations in the state. Like other markets on this list, there are handmade crafts and popular plants such as wreaths and poinsettias.
This fair has a silent auction that raises money for local charities in need. Kids love the visit from Santa here to tell him all of the goodies they want him to bring.
6. Holiday Village Stroll
If Lake Placid isn’t already beautiful enough, the holiday spirit sure brings plenty of charm to the region. From people dressing up in Santa suits to go skiing to people running marathons in Gingerbread Man costumes, this is a Christmas market in New York to remember.
Before Santa arrives, children of all ages can enjoy singing Christmas carols and listening to iconic holiday stories. when a night falls, there is the lighting of the Christmas tree that will truly take your breath away.
Of course, don’t forget to check out the shops and delicious food while you’re here.
7. Christmas at the Canal
Visit the Mohawk Valley for the penultimate Christmas market in New York. Christmas at the Canal is in Utica at the LaSalle County Historical Museum. Artisans here sell beautiful pieces of carved wood, knitted hats and gloves, glassware, artwork, and more.
There are also locally grown produce and baked goods that you’ll want to bring home.
8. Bank of America Winter Village
Not only is the Bank of America Winter Village a Christmas market in New York but it’s said to be the best in the world! You can rent a cozy heated igloo to enjoy a seasonal menu of food and drinks. This is the perfect way to warm up after spending an afternoon ice skating.
Of course, there are plenty of shops in the park with goods curated from Urbanspace Markets. With bumper cars on ice and an opportunity to meet Santa, there’s no wonder why this market makes the list.
Don’t forget to take family pictures by one of the several lit trees in the area.
Summary of Christmas Markets in New York State
Rank | Market Name | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Holidays in the Market | Buffalo |
2 | Christmas in the Country | Rochester |
3 | Christkindlmarkt | Poughkeepsie |
4 | Italian Christmas Market | Albany |
5 | St. John’s Christmas Fair | Huntingdon |
6 | Holiday Village Stroll | Lake Placid |
7 | Christmas at the Canal | Utica |
8 | Bank of America Winter Village | Bryant Park (NYC) |
The photo featured at the top of this post is © RomanBabakin/iStock via Getty Images
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