9 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in Upstate New York

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! With just weeks to go until Christmas, Upstate New York is already enveloped with the bustling charm of holiday markets. Holiday markets have become an annual tradition here, much like in Europe and Germany. They spring up around town between Thanksgiving and Christmas, every year.

From glittery ornaments to colorful jewelry, toys, handmade knitwear, fragrant soaps, candles, and gobs of seasonal treats, these festive markets always have something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of the most incredible holiday markets to hit before Christmas in Upstate New York.

The Best Holiday Markets in Upstate New York

1. Buffalo Holiday Market and Hamburg Holiday Market

Where: 202 Ohio St., Buffalo, NY & Memorial Park, Hamburg

When: 24th November-23rd December, 2023

The Buffalo Holiday Market is a five-week annual affair that takes place in the heart of downtown Buffalo. The market will feature over 400 rotating artisan vendors chocked full of different offerings each week. The festival’s biggest draw is probably the igloos that are available to rent. These transparent igloo domes give holiday shoppers the chance to drink, dine, and hang out in a cozy festive snow globe. This charming Christmas festival will also feature a fun activity station and local musical entertainment. While you are at the market, shopping, be sure to stop for some local beer or mulled wine from the Winery of Ellicottville.

The holiday market will also put on a second spectacular holiday show in the Village of Hamburg. This shopping festival will host vintage sellers, artisan crafters, and holiday foods from Western New York.

2. Holidays at the Market, Rochester

Where: 280 North Union Street, Rochester, NY 14609

When: 3rd December, 2023, 10th December, 2023 & 14th December, 2023

Holidays at the Market is a celebration that is committed to tradition. A Rochester holiday tradition that dates back to over 26 years. The Rochester Christmas market promises a jolly good time to its visitors with beautiful lighting, festive music, limitless local shopping, and a visit from Santa. Old-fashioned carriage rides will also keep the merriment going at this event. Apart from this, specialty treats, warming drinks, and confectionery will be served to keep the warm holiday spirit vibing.

3. Christkindlmarkt at Hofbräuhaus, Buffalo 

Where: Hofbräuhaus Buffalo

When: December 8th-December 10th & December 15th-December 17th, 2023

We all know a German holiday market is a real fairy-tale deal. If you want to experience something distinctly German, head to the Christkindlmarkt at Hofbräuhaus Buffalo. This month-long holiday pop-up market will feature over 30 local artists and artisans. Join this lively tradition, to listen to harmonic carols, ride horse-drawn carriages, and see a spectacular display of beer barrel Christmas tree lighting. All proceeds from the event will benefit a worthwhile not-for-profit organization called ‘Hope Rises’.

4. Press Bay Winter Artisan Market, Ithaca

Where: 116 W Green St, Ithaca, NY 14850-5420, United States

When: 16th December, 2023

This open-air winter artisan market will let you shop from a bevy of local makers including Ithaca Murals, Clayful Pots, Nik’s Nack Shop, and Tatum’s Treasures, to name just a few. See the backlot and alley of Press Bay transform into a festive wonderland, as you groove to live music and enjoy some sweet culinary delights.

5. Christmas Craft and Holiday Market, Syracuse

Where: New York State Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY

When: 9th & 10th December, 2023

At the Christmas craft and holiday market, artisans and vendors from near and far will set up shop at the Horticulture Building. Stalls will feature exceptional gifts and gourmet goodies, including bath and body products, candles, gifts for children, and hand-blown glass among others. You can purchase your tickets online or at the door. Tickets provide entry to all days of the show.

6. WinterFest at the Kenan Center, Niagara County

Where: Kenan Center Arena195 Beattie Ave, Lockport, NY 14094

When: 16th & 17th December, 2023

Experience the delights of the winter season at the Kenan Center, where Santa will make regular appearances to take pictures and letters. The center will be transformed into a mini indoor golf course and there will be food, drinks, live performances, raffles, games, and crafts to keep the event fun for everyone.

7. Holiday Market Pop-Up at Peace, Love & Lights, Bethel, NY

Where: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

When: 9th December, 16th December & 23rd December, 2023

This one-of-a-kind holiday market is a three-day celebratory affair. Tons of specialty food vendors and artisans will showcase some of their finest goods at the bustling Holiday Market Pop-up. And the fun doesn’t end there. When you’re done shopping, you can drive through a winter wonderland display of holiday lights at the Bethel Woods grounds.

8. Holiday Village Stroll, Lake Placid

Where: Lake Placid, New York

When: 8th-10th December, 2023

The energy at Lake Placid reaches its peak during the holiday stroll days, one of the region’s most cherished wintertime traditions. The three-day event will feature a free movie showing, photos with Santa, a scavenger hunt, a skating party, and of course, plenty of holiday crafts to pick up for your crew. Views of the snow-dusted Adirondacks and the scenic village of Lake Placid promise to make this festive market a dreamy experience.

9. Holiday Bazaar at Belleayre Ski Mountain

Where: Belleayre Ski Mountain, Highmount

When: 16th & 17th December, 2023

Want to elevate your shopping experience? Head to the Belleayre Ski Resort, nestled in the gorgeous Catskill mountains. The Discovery Lodge at Belleayre will transform into a festive holiday market, offering local handicrafts and original gift ideas. When you’re done shopping, you can hit the slopes and enjoy beautiful views of the Catskills.