You don't have to travel to Vienna, Austria or Germany to experience the Christkindlmarkt.
Now in its 16th year the Union Square Holiday Market is modeled after the European style markets. Union Square market seems to be filled with local artisans and crafts people.
There are other markets as well for those who prefer the Upper West Side by central park and a stroll away from Lincoln Center. This market is in it's 7th year and it features original handmade, recycled and organic gifts and decorations.
My favorite market is Holiday Shops at Bryant Park and I can't wait for it to get cold and go there, window shop, look at the skaters and drink some mulled wine.
Below are the markets and the times that they start as well as the website if they have one.
Union Square Holiday Market
South end of Union Square at West 14th Street
November 19–December 24
Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
(Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Southwest entrance to Central Park
December 1–December 24
Open daily 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
Between Fifth and Sixth Avenues and 40th and 42nd Streets
212/768-4242
bryantpark.org
Grand Central Holiday Terminal
Grand Central Terminal, Lexington Avenue at 42nd Street
212/340-2345
grandcentralterminal.com
Holiday Gift Shops at St. Bartholemew’s
325 Park Avenue
212/378-0222
stbarts.org