Cartoon by Magali Audry

It is hard to ignore the upcoming end of the year. Days are getting shorter, temperatures are dropping, and Christmas markets are popping up in almost every neighborhood. They transform the city with a charming festive atmosphere, which is hard to find at any other time. The smell of hot cider and fresh waffles hangs over the dozens and dozens of stalls, which offer a large selection of art, gifts, clothing, jewelry, and much more. Many of these items are hand-crafted by designers and artists. And with some luck you will find unique pieces that will stand out from the traditional candles and books that are usually found under the Christmas tree.

Below is a list of the most popular and of some less-known, but nevertheless intriguing, markets of NYC.

Holiday Market at Union Square
14th Street, at Broadway; 212-529-9262
In the heart of the city, every year the red-and-white tents are resurrected with winter accessories from small and big designers who sell gifts for any occasion. Warm yourself with hot cider and steamy snacks.
Dates: November 15 to December 24; 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, Sixth Avenue, at 42nd Street; 212-768-4242
Are you bored with shopping but still have items on the list? Mix up some serious shopping—more than 100 vendors make this market the biggest in town—with a few fun rounds on the ice skating rink, for free.
Dates: November 5 to January 2; Monday to Friday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.– 6 p.m.

Cartoon by Magali Audry

Young Designers Market
328 West 14th Street, Between Eighth & Ninth Avenues.
Although open year-round, this indoor market gets really busy the weeks before Christmas. With original jewelry, clothing, hats, and art, it is hard to leave this place without something in your bag.
Dates: Every Saturday and Sunday 11a.m. – 7 p.m.

Grand Central Holiday Fair
Lexington Avenue, at 42nd Street; 212-340-2583
Is it snowing, freezing, and windy? Check out the 12,000-square-foot Vanderbilt Hall of Grand Central Terminal. Seventy-six vendors feature a large selection of merchandise, including clothing, jewelries, fashion, toys, and much more.
Dates: November 15 to December 24; Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The Holiday Gift Shops at St. Bartholomew’s
325 Park Avenue, at 50th Street; 212-378-0200
Even New City Landmarks like St. Bart’s transform into festive Christmas markets. Great to combine a busy shopping day with a meditative break in the church.
Dates: November 15 to December 24; 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Holiday Market at Columbus Circle
Central Park South, at Central Park West; 212-529-9262
This market is for those who love food. Gift baskets filled with edible goodies, or decks with discounts to restaurants are just some of the treats that can be found here. And after some busy hours of shopping, relax in the park, just a few steps away.
Dates: December 1 to 24; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square
Broadway from Columbus Circle to 68th Street; 212-581-3774
For one night only, this market offers a special occasion to find Christmas gifts while enjoying live music.
Date: November 29, 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar
N. 7th Street, at Wythe Avenue; 917-301-5765
Right across the Williamsburg Bridge, a new holiday market is opening to host artists and designers and showcase their unique creations.
Dates: December 4–5, 11–12, 18–19; noon – 8 p.m.

Gifted: A Holiday Market presented by the Brooklyn Flea and Design*Sponge
Skylight One Hanson, One Hanson Pl.
During nine days the Brooklyn event space Skylight One Hanson will turn into a big holiday market, showcasing more than 100 vendors on three floors. There might be little which cannot be found there.
Dates: December 15 to 23; 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Brooklyn Craft Central Holiday Market
Littlefield Performance Space, 622 Degraw Street and Textile Arts Center, 505 Carroll Street
Running late, Christmas is around the corner? Then this market is for you. On the last weekend before Christmas, fill your bags with crafts and gifts and fill your belly with artisanal treats and drinks.
Dates: December 18–19: Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Made in Harlem Art & Gift Festival
Casa Frela Gallery, 47 W. 119th St.
Manhattan uptown livers and lovers will have the opportunity to discover new hand-crafted gifts and art objects in their neighborhood, during one weekend in December.
Dates: December 4–5; 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.