Looking for unique gifts that can't be found at the local Gap or Pottery Barn? You can find one-of-a-kind presents at New York City's holiday shopping fairs and markets.
Every year, these temporary holiday shopping bazaars spring up in parks and public spaces around the city. Vendors set up booths to sell unique holiday gift items -- many of them hand-made. You'll find one-of-a-kind jewelry, hand-knit sweaters and scarves, holiday ornaments, toys, artwork, food items, and more.
1. The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
The Holiday Shops transform Bryant Park into an old-fashioned holiday market styled in the European tradition. This free holiday fair features more than 120 artisans and merchants from around the world. New this year: A free gift-wrapping station. While you're there, take a shopping break for free ice skating at The Pond at Bryant Park.
Where: Bryant Park, 6th Ave. at 42nd St.; 866-221-5157
When: Daily from November 22 through December 28, 2008
Hours: Mon-Fri, 11am-8pm; Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 10am-6pm.
Where: Bryant Park, 6th Ave. at 42nd St.; 866-221-5157
When: Daily from November 22 through December 28, 2008
Hours: Mon-Fri, 11am-8pm; Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 10am-6pm.
2. Union Square Park Holiday Market
Union Square Park becomes a winter shopping wonderland with an outdoor holiday market featuring 100+ artisans and vendors. Located in the south section of the park near 14th St., the Union Square holiday fair offers deals on goodies like jewelry, candles, pottery, and much more.Where: Union Square Park at 14th St., 212-529-9262.
When: November 22 through December 28, 2008
Hours: Mon-Fri, 11am-8pm; Sat, 10am-8pm; Sun, 11am-7pm. Open from 10am-4pm on Christmas Eve.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Fair
Shop for special gifts in Central Park at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Organized by the same people behind the Union Square Holiday Market, the Columbus Circle shopping fair features 100+ vendors and a wide selection of unique and handmade gifts.Where: Southwest entrance to Central Park at Central Park West and Central Park South; 212-529-9262.
When: December 3 through December 23, 2008
Hours: Daily, 10am to 8pm
4. Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
The annual Holiday Fair is a shopping extravaganza held in the magnificent 12,000 square foot Vanderbilt Hall. Grand Central has gathered 76 vendors of unusual, beautiful and exotic goods that cannot be found elsewhere in the city.Where: Grand Central Terminal, Vanderbilt Hall, 42nd St. and Park Ave.; 212-340-2210
When: November 16 through December 29, 2008
Hours: Mon-Sat, 10am-8pm; Sun, 11am-7pm. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
5. The Holiday Gift Shops at St. Bartholemew's Park Avenue
This shopping bazaar sponsored by St. Bartholomew's Church specializes in multicultural arts and crafts. Browse through antiques, jewelry, holiday decorations, clothing and other gifts.Where: Park Ave. at 50th St., 212-809-5200
When: Open daily November 19 through December 24, 2008
Hours: 8am-8pm.
