The Union Square Holiday Market is New York’s best market for actual gift shopping. More than 180 red-and-white booths fill the southwest corner of Union Square Park with local makers, designers and food vendors, from handmade jewelry and ceramics to NYC-themed prints, knitwear and candles. Run by Urbanspace, it’s been a downtown tradition for over 25 years.
The 2026 market is expected to open on Thursday, November 12 and run through Christmas Eve, December 24. Urbanspace confirms the schedule in early November.
Quick Facts
| Expected dates | November 12 – December 24, 2026 (closed Thanksgiving) |
|---|---|
| Typical hours | Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–8 p.m. or later; Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Christmas Eve closes about 4 p.m. |
| Where | Union Square Park, south and west sides near 14th St & Broadway, Manhattan |
| Admission | Free |
| Subway | 4/5/6/L/N/Q/R/W to 14 St–Union Square |
What to Buy
This market leans heavily on independent makers, so it’s the place for gifts you won’t find in stores: handmade jewelry, leather goods, ceramics, art prints of New York, kids’ toys, knitwear, skincare, hot sauces and gourmet foods. Many vendors are local and some are only here for the season.
What to Eat
Food stalls typically serve hot cider, cocoa, mini donuts, raclette, dumplings and other warming snacks. It’s a grazing market rather than a sit-down one.
Tips
- Weekday afternoons are far calmer than weekends.
- Most vendors take cards, but carry some cash.
- The Union Square Greenmarket runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays next to the market, great for local food gifts.
- Walk south to the Washington Square tree (10 minutes) after dark.
A Downtown Tradition
The Union Square Holiday Market has run for more than 25 years and is now operated by Urbanspace, the team behind several of the city’s food halls and markets. It started as a small gathering of craftspeople and has grown into one of the largest outdoor holiday markets in New York, with a strong emphasis on independent and local makers.
How to Shop the Market
- Do a first lap: the rows of booths are tightly packed; walk the whole market before buying.
- Ask about shipping: many vendors ship nationwide, handy for visitors with full suitcases.
- Look for local makers: NYC-themed prints, ceramics and jewelry make great gifts.
- Go early on weekends: by mid-afternoon the aisles get crowded.
- Bring a tote bag: many vendors are cutting back on packaging.
Gift Ideas You’ll Find
- Handmade jewelry and accessories
- Art prints, maps and illustrations of New York neighborhoods
- Knitwear, scarves and hats
- Candles, soaps and skincare
- Ceramics and home goods
- Kids’ toys and books
- Hot sauces, chocolates and gourmet treats
More ideas in our New York gift guide.
Around Union Square
The Union Square Greenmarket runs alongside the market on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with farm-fresh food that makes good edible gifts. The Strand bookstore is a short walk down Broadway. For dinner, the streets around the square and Flatiron have plenty of options, and Greenwich Village and the Washington Square tree are 10 minutes south.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Union Square Holiday Market open in 2026?
It is expected to open Thursday, November 12, 2026 and run through December 24. Check Urbanspace for confirmation.
How many vendors are at the Union Square Holiday Market?
More than 180 vendors.
Is the Union Square market open on Christmas Eve?
Yes, it typically closes early, around 4 p.m., on December 24.
Does the Union Square Holiday Market take credit cards?
Most vendors accept cards, but some smaller booths prefer cash, so bring a little.
Who runs the Union Square Holiday Market?
The market is operated by Urbanspace.
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