Columbus Circle Holiday Market 2024: Central Park Stalls

Columbus Circle is the setting for a holiday market like no other, with its unique mix of artisans, food vendors and live entertainment right on the edge of Central Park.

This guide includes all the details you need to plan your visit, including expected dates, opening times, and key stalls.

Shopping and Entertainment at Columbus Circle with Over 100 Holiday Market Stalls

Dates and Location – Unconfirmed

Columbus Circle dates: 26th November to 31st December 2024 (unconfirmed).
Location: Central Park at 59th Street and Central Park West.
Opening times:
Monday to Friday: 11am to 8pm.
Saturday: 10am to 8pm.
Sunday: 11am to 7pm.
Christmas Eve: 11am to 4pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: Yes, at Wollman Rink.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Prime city location, unmatched accessibility. Renowned for artisanal craftsmanship and food specialties.
Specialities: New York pretzels. Hot apple cider. Freshly baked gingerbread. Local food trucks are diverse and innovative.
Where to stay: JW Marriott Essex House is an excellent hotel 5-minutes away.

Nearby Hotels

If you visit NYC, consider staying near Central Park and Columbus Circle. This area is known for its greenery, which contrasts with the bustling city.

Access to the nearby theatre district, home to many Broadway shows, makes it a convenient place to stay if that’s what interests you.

For your stay, I suggest the JW Marriott Essex, a highly-rated hotel in the area that is both comfortable and an excellent starting point for your visit.

Check out this guide to the best NYC Holiday Markets for more event options and insider tips.

Event Location

What to Expect

The rich scent of gingerbread and mulled wine fills the air as you peruse stalls filled with handcrafted jewellery, ceramics and a colourful array of seasonal knits.

Among the many food vendors, you’ll discover local specialties such as New York pretzels and hot apple cider, which add to the overall festive atmosphere of this distinctive NYC event.

A full list of specialties is further below.

At the Food Stalls

• New York Pretzels: Not your average pretzel, New York pretzels are large, soft, and have a subtle exterior crunch. Vendors often serve them warm with a sprinkling of coarse salt, and they are a favourite on-the-go snack for both locals and tourists.
• Hot Apple Cider: A beloved warm drink in winter, hot apple cider is made by simmering apple juice with spices like cinnamon and cloves.
• Gingerbread: Quintessential to any winter market, stalls sell delicious gingerbread in various forms. From beautifully decorated gingerbread people to intricately assembled gingerbread houses.
• Roasted Chestnuts: The sweet, nutty aroma of roasted chestnuts is a distinctive scent that fills the air. They are usually roasted over an open fire and served warm.
• Bratwurst: These German-style sausages are typically grilled and served in a bun with a selection of mustards.
• Mulled Wine: Borrowed from European Christmas traditions, mulled wine is made by gently heating red wine with various scented spices, orange peel, and sometimes a touch of brandy.
• Candied Nuts: Vendors at the market sell candied nuts, including almonds, pecans, and peanuts.
• Churros: These classic Spanish doughnut-like pastries are deep-fried, coated in sugar, and often served with rich chocolate dipping sauce.
• Local Food Trucks: Columbus Circle is also home to food trucks offering innovative street food. From Korean tacos to vegan falafel bowls, there’s a wealth of global flavours to be discovered.
• Eggnog: A classic holiday drink, eggnog is a creamy blend of milk, cream, sugar, whipped egg whites, and egg yolks. It’s typically spiced with nutmeg and sometimes given a kick with a splash of rum or bourbon.

What to Buy

• Ornaments: Numerous stalls at the market sell handmade ornaments, ranging from delicate glass baubles to wooden trinkets.
• Local Artwork: The market features numerous stalls showcasing local artists and their works. Purchasing one of these pieces supports local talent and makes for a unique gift.
• Gourmet Food: Specialty food items are popular at the market. Stalls carry items like artisanal cheeses, locally sourced honey, handmade chocolates and small-batch hot sauce.
• Beauty Products: Beauty products made from local and natural ingredients are also common. Organic soaps, hand creams, lip balms and bath bombs are popular purchases, perfect for creating a spa-like experience at home.
• Hand-Knits: Given the chilly weather, stalls selling hand-knit items like scarves, hats, and gloves are a common sight.
• Unique Cards: Several stalls offer unique Christmas and Holiday cards, often hand-drawn or painted.

Sustainability Tips

• Renewable Energy: Consider staying in a hotel that uses renewable energy sources to support the transition to lower-emission energy.
• Reduce Food Waste: Mind your portions when ordering food at the market or nearby restaurants to avoid waste. You could also take a reusable container with you for any leftovers.
• Ethical Consumption: Prioritise shopping from vendors who use ethical practices, like those selling handmade or fair-trade products. Also, only purchase what you really need and avoid impulse buys.
• Sustainable Diet: Try some plant-based food options available at the markets. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are delicious and have a smaller environmental footprint.
• Sustainable Transport: Reduce your carbon footprint by using public transport or walking where possible. Columbus Circle is well-connected by the subway and is within walking distance of many major attractions.

Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.