7 charming Christmas markets in New York State

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Taxi cab ornaments for sale at the Christmas market in Union Square, NYC (Photo: Phil Roeder via Flick)

Christmas markets are an enduringly popular staple of the holiday season across the world, and natives of New York State have plenty to choose from each year. The biting cold snap that tends to hit the northeastern US state around Christmas time only adds to the occasion – making traditional festive hot drinks such as eggnog and gluhwein an even more enticing prospect.

Wherever you are in New York State during the festive period, there’s almost certain to be a Christmas market somewhere nearby. For those planning a trip to New York from November to January, we’ve picked out 7 of the best Christmas markets that the state has to offer. We hope you enjoy our selection.

1. Holidays in the Market (Buffalo)

Dating all the way back to the 1800s, Broadway Market continues to be a mainstay of Buffalo life. And at no time of the year is it more vibrant than at Christmas, when this busting hub of vendors, shoppers, and traders throw themselves into the holiday spirit with festive food and drink craft vendors, the chance for kids to meet Santa, and a free holiday train show.

(Photo: www.iloveny.com)

LOCATION 999 Broadway DATES 26 November-17 December

2. Christmas in the Country (Rochester)

Held over 3 days, this bustling holiday market features the sights, sounds and scents of the holidays, with over 200 artisans and artists from across the country all showcasing their unique handcrafted creations. Among the wares on display are gourmet food, wine and spirits, bath and beauty products, jewellery, aromatic candles, eco-friendly clothing, pottery, original wall art, and woodwork. Complimentary return passes are available each day.

LOCATION Rochester Dome Arena DATES 9-11 November

3. Christkindlmarkt (Poughkeepsie)

Germany remains the standard bearer for Christmas markets and the efforts to replicate this rich national tradition extend across the globe. In New York State, one of the best ‘Christkindlmarkts’ can be found in the city of Poughkeepsie, nestled in the Hudson Valley. Here visitors can enjoy classic festive German food and beverages, crafts, baked goods and confections, and an endless array of gift-buying opportunities.

(Photo: Germania Of Poughkeepsie)

LOCATION Germania of Poughkeepsie, 37 Old DeGarmo Road DATES 26 November-17 December

4. Italian Christmas Market (Albany)

Each year several rooms at Albany’s Italian American Heritage Museum are given over to a popular Christmas market, featuring a huge assortment of Italian made festive items including decorations, novelties, toys, olive oil, jewellery, art, music, games and candies. The market also plays host to a special exhibit depicting an Italian Christmas Nativity, inspired by a centuries-old Florentine tradition.

LOCATION American Italian Heritage Museum, 1227 Central Avenue DATES 30 November – 2 December

5. St. John’s Christmas Fair (Huntingdon)

For many people nowadays, Christmas is a largely secular celebration. But even for people without any religious inclinations, churches can still play a major role in creating a fun and festive atmosphere. At St John’s Church in Huntingdon each year, a Christmas market offers a wide array of holiday-themed products, including handmade crafts, jewellery and plants. A silent auction and raffle help raise money for local charities and special projects and there’s also a visit from Santa himself.

(Photo: St. John’s Church)

LOCATION 1670 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor DATES 8 December

6. Holiday Village Stroll (Lake Placid)

Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, the scenic village of Lake Placid is given a Christmas makeover each year. This family-friendly weekend is chock-a-block full of events, entertainment, parties, dining and shopping, all with a distinctly festive flavour. There’s free kids’ activities, while Santa also makes numerous appearances throughout the village. For the adults, the live entertainment lasts late into the evening.

(Photo: adventuresbydaddy.com)

LOCATION Across Lake Placid Village DATES 7-98 December

7. Christmas at the Canal (Utica)

The city of Utica in the Mohawk Valley has its own contribution to the roster of Christmas markets in New York State each year in the shape of Christmas at the Canal. During the festive season vendors gather at LaSalle County Historical Museum, on the banks of the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal, to sell knitted items, woodworking, jewellery, furniture, glassware, artwork, garden produce, baked goods and plenty more.

LOCATION LaSalle County Historical Museum, 101 East Canal Street DATES 24-25 November

By Paul Joseph