New York City during the holidays is magical. You know what makes it even better? Not having to leave your dog at home while you experience it. Whether youâre a native New Yorker or visiting for the season, this complete guide covers every dog-friendly holiday market, light display, and festive event across all five boroughs. Spoiler alert: thereâs a LOT more than just Bryant Park.
đ What Youâll Find Here
This isnât your typical âTop 5â listicle. Weâre covering:
- Manhattan: 7 major markets + iconic attractions
- Brooklyn: 6 maker markets + legendary light displays
- Queens: 3 neighborhood gems youâve never heard of
- The Bronx: 2 authentic local experiences
- Staten Island: 2 waterfront wonders
Manhattan: The Classic NYC Holiday Experience
1. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
đ Dates
Oct 24, 2025 â Jan 4, 2026
MonâFri 11amâ8pm
SatâSun 10amâ8pm
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs welcome throughout outdoor market
â Not on ice rink
đ° Cost
FREE
(Skate rental extra)
This is THE iconic NYC holiday market. Over 170 boutique vendors in adorable âjewel boxâ kiosks selling everything from handmade jewelry to international street food. The centerpiece is the free-admission ice rink (your dog canât skate, but the people-watching is unmatched) and a massive Christmas tree that screams âIâm in a Hallmark movie.â
Real talk: This place gets MOBBED. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder tourists taking selfies with the tree mobbed. If your dog isnât a fan of crowds (or you value your sanity), hit it up on a weekday morning. Early bird gets the pretzelâand the elbow room.
2. Union Square Holiday Market
đ Dates
Nov 13 â Dec 24, 2025
MonâFri 11amâ9pm
Sat 10amâ9pm, Sun 11amâ7pm
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs allowed per NYC Parks rules
â Dog run nearby in park
đ° Cost
FREE
Union Square is where New Yorkers actually shop (as opposed to Bryant Park, where tourists shop while New Yorkers avoid eye contact). With 175+ local artisans and food vendors, this market has a grittier, more authentic downtown vibe. Plus, thereâs a dog run in Union Square Park, so your pup can burn off energy before or after you browse.
Insider tip: The market runs along the south end of the park. If you time it right (weekday mornings), you can grab a coffee, let your dog sniff literally every tree in the park, then casually browse handmade crafts without battling weekend crowds. This is peak New York efficiency.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Market
đ Dates
Dec 2â31, 2025
SunâThu 11amâ7pm
FriâSat 10amâ8pm
Closed Christmas
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs allowed in outdoor aisles
đ° Cost
FREE
Located at the southwest corner of Central Park (literally where the park begins), this market is the fancy cousin of the Union Square market. Over 100 vendors selling elegant gifts, jewelry, art, and gourmet treats. The real draw? Youâre steps away from Central Parkâs snow-dusted paths, which means you can combine holiday shopping with an epic winter dog walk.
Pro move: Shop in the morning, then take your dog on a Central Park adventure. Your Instagram will thank you. The contrast between the festive market and the serene park is chefâs kiss.
4. Grand Central Holiday Fair
đ Dates
Nov 10 â Dec 24, 2025
MonâFri 10amâ8pm
Sat 10amâ7pm, Sun 11amâ6pm
đ Dog Policy
Well-behaved leashed dogs allowed inside terminal
đ° Cost
FREE
Plot twist: Manhattanâs only major indoor holiday market. Held in Vanderbilt Hall under gorgeous Beaux-Arts chandeliers, this is where you go when itâs 20°F outside and you still need to buy gifts. About 40 vendors selling high-quality crafts, artisanal gifts, and holiday dĂŠcorâall while you and your pup stay toasty warm.
Bonus: Grand Central itself is dog-friendly, so you can explore the terminalâs architectural beauty, grab food from the market downstairs, and pretend youâre in a Wes Anderson film. Just keep your dog close during rush hour because commuters WILL run you over.
5. Macyâs Herald Square Holiday Market
đ Dates
Phases: Nov 8 â Jan 3, 2026
MonâSat ~11amâ8/9pm
Sun until 7â8pm
đ Dog Policy
Dog-friendly! Entirely outdoors on public plazas
đ° Cost
FREE
New for 2025! Macyâs and Urbanspace created a modern âMiracle on 34th Streetâ spanning Broadway from 32nd to 36th Streets. Think of it as a holiday market meets beer garden meets outdoor shopping district. Features 30+ specialty vendors, festive food kiosks, and the Herald Haus Beer Gardenâa cozy lodge-themed tent serving drinks and snacks.
Reality check: Herald Square is tourist central. Like, aggressive selfie stick central. But if youâre already seeing the Macyâs windows or the Thanksgiving Parade route, this market adds to the experience. Plus, being entirely outdoors means your dog can join the chaos.
6. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Plaza
đ Dates
Tree lit Dec 3, 2025
Daily 6amâmidnight through early Jan
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs allowed in outdoor plaza
â Avoid tree lighting event (too crowded)
đ° Cost
FREE
Come on. You canât visit NYC during the holidays and NOT see the Rockefeller Center tree. This 75-foot Norway spruce with 50,000+ LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star is basically the final boss of Christmas trees. Your dog will either be in awe or confused why youâre staring at a tree. Either way, photo op achieved.
Survival guide: DO NOT attempt this during peak hours (5pmâ9pm weekdays, all day weekends) unless your dog is a zen master. The crowds are INSANE. Instead, go late at night (10pm+) or early morning (7am). Youâll get better photos, your dog wonât get trampled, and you might actually enjoy it.
While youâre there, check out the skating rink (dogs can watch from the periphery), the Saks Fifth Avenue light show across the street, and the giant ornaments on Sixth Avenue. Itâs a full holiday lights walking tour.
7. Doxie Holiday Parade (Madison Square Park)
đ Date
Sunday, Dec 14, 2025
12:30pm (lasts ~1 hour)
đ Dog Policy
ALL DOGS WELCOME!
(Dachshunds are the stars)
đ° Cost
FREE
Okay, this is objectively the cutest thing on this entire list. An annual âwiener walkâ where dozens of Dachshunds (and other dogs) parade through Madison Square Park in Christmas sweaters, Santa outfits, reindeer antlers, and elf ears. Organized by @dachshundsofnyc, this is peak wholesome internet content happening IRL.
What to expect: Photo ops galore. Costumed canines everywhere. Cheerful onlookers losing their minds over tiny dogs in sweaters. Your dog doesnât have to be a Dachshund to joinâany friendly pup in festive attire is welcome. Itâs free, casual, and radiates pure holiday joy.
Even if you donât have a dog, you can spectate. But honestly, if youâre reading this guide, you probably have a dog. So dress them up and GO.
Brooklyn: Where Hipsters and Dogs Unite
8. FAD Market â Holiday Pop-Ups (Multiple Locations)
đ Dates
Weekends in December
DUMBO: Daily Dec 1â21
Boerum/Cobble Hill: Dec 6â7, 13â14, 20â21
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs welcome at ALL locations
đ° Cost
FREE
FAD Market is where Brooklynâs maker community shows off. Over 150 independent vendors across three pop-up locations, featuring design goods, artisan crafts, jewelry, apparel, art, home dĂŠcor, bath/body products, and locally-made food items. Each weekend brings a new mix of 35+ makers, so thereâs always something unique.
Dog bonus: These markets are indoors or covered, so you can shop comfortably with your pup regardless of weather. FAD often includes local pet product vendors tooâthink handmade dog collars, organic treats, and canine-themed art. Your dog might literally walk out with their own purchases.
Locations: Empire Stores (55 Water St, DUMBO), 51 Bergen St (Boerum Hill), St. Paulâs (190 Court St, Cobble Hill)
9. The Makers Show â Holidays in Brooklyn (City Point)
đ Dates
Weekends through Dec 22
FriâSun, late morning to evening
đ Dog Policy
Pets encouraged!
Leashed in City Point public areas
đ° Cost
FREE
Co-curated by NYC Pride Marketfest and Da Spot, this market celebrates BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women-owned small businesses. Dozens of vendors sell one-of-a-kind handcrafted goodsâfrom art and fashion to gourmet treats. The venue is indoors within City Pointâs atrium, so you can shop comfortably with your dog in any weather.
Why itâs great: City Point explicitly welcomes pets in public areas during the market. Plus, the adjacent Dekalb Market Hall has global food options, so you can grab lunch while your dog soaks up the stylish Brooklyn vibes. Music, special events, and workshops add to the festive atmosphere.
Location: City Point BKLYN, 445 Albee Square West, Downtown Brooklyn
10. Williamsburg Winter Village
đ Dates
Every Fri/Sat/Sun in December
Fri 5pmâ10pm
Daytime hours on weekends
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs welcome
đ° Cost
FREE
A pop-up holiday village at Bk Backyard (151 Banker St) featuring NYCâs top food trucks, rotating local artisanal gift stalls, and interactive seasonal fun. Sip hot cocoa or mulled wine, snack on street food, and shop for giftsâall in a festively decorated outdoor lot turned winter wonderland.
The vibe: Cozy seating areas with fire pits and heat lamps, lights displays, and often live music or DIY craft activities. Itâs a hip, laid-back Brooklyn take on a holiday market. Bundle up your pup and enjoy an evening stroll among twinkling lights and food stands.
11. DUMBO Holiday Market at the Archway
đ Dates
Sat/Sun through Dec 21
10amâ5pm
đ Dog Policy
Dog-friendly!
DUMBO is very pet-friendly
đ° Cost
FREE
A Brooklyn Flea holiday bazaar in a DRAMATIC setting beneath the Manhattan Bridge (80 Pearl Street). Over 40 vintage, handmade, and food vendors set up on weekends. Find antique collectibles, art, crafts, vintage clothing, locally designed jewelry, and specialty foods. DUMBO also projects giant holiday animations on the bridge and has a quirky Christmas tree made of construction cones.
After the market: Stroll over to Brooklyn Bridge Park with your pup for skyline views. Thereâs a dog run at Pier 6 for off-leash play. The whole DUMBO neighborhood is incredibly dog-friendly, so make an afternoon of it.
Location: DUMBO Archway, 80 Pearl Street
12. Markets for Makers â Brooklyn Holiday Market (Industry City)
đ Dates
Nov 22â23, 2025
11amâ5pm both days
đ Dog Policy
Friendly leashed dogs permitted
đ° Cost
Ticketed
(Includes perks)
A two-day curated market bringing together 90+ indie artisans from around the country. Trendy mix of handmade jewelry, chic home dĂŠcor, art, fashion, and candles. Ticketed entry includes a free tote bag, photo walls, DIY craft stations, and complimentary drinks (coffee or matcha). Dogs were welcome in the spacious indoor venue, and many vendors are pet-lovers.
Note: This was a one-weekend event in late November 2025. Similar maker fairs typically return annually, so keep an eye out for 2026 dates if you miss it.
Location: Industry City, 220 36th St, Courtyard 1/2, Sunset Park
13. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights đâ
đ Dates
Thanksgiving â New Yearâs
Nightly 5pmâ9pm (best viewing mid-Dec)
đ Dog Policy
YES! Public neighborhood
Leashes required
đ° Cost
FREE
This is arguably the most EXTRA Christmas light spectacle in the entire country. Not joking.
Entire houses decked out with tens of thousands of lights, giant inflatable Santas, reindeer, Nutcrackers, snowmen, animated figures, and synchronized music. Many homeowners in this Italian-American neighborhood hire professional decorators and essentially turn their properties into mini theme parks. Itâs an immersive winter wonderland spanning multiple blocks.
Best viewing blocks: 11thâ13th Avenues and 83rdâ86th Streets
Dog-friendly strategy: Go on weeknights or early evening to avoid the worst crowds and tour buses. Your dog will be mesmerized by the lights (or mildly terrified by the 20-foot inflatable snowmanâboth are valid reactions).
IMPORTANT: Keep dogs close and DO NOT let them âmarkâ on homeownersâ decorations or lawns. These families spend thousands on displays and deserve respect. Also, be prepared for crowdsâthis draws tourists from around the world.
Parking tip: Nearby Dyker Beach Park has parking and can be a good spot for a quick dog break.
Queens: The Hidden Gems
14. Holiday Makers Market @ Q.E.D. Astoria
đ Date
Sunday, Dec 14, 2025
12pmâ5pm (one-day event)
đ Dog Policy
Pet-friendly!
Leashed dogs welcome
đ° Cost
FREE
A Queens Craft Brigade market at Q.E.D. Astoria (27-16 23rd Avenue)âan indoor arts venue and cafĂŠ. Features local Queens-based artisans selling handmade jewelry, artwork, crafts, apparel, and foodie treats with a shop-small, neighborhood vibe. The atmosphere is intimate and community-oriented. You can grab a drink, meet the makers, and even catch live music or comedy.
Why we love it: Itâs cozy, itâs local, itâs dog-friendly, and it supports Astoriaâs creative small businesses. If youâre tired of massive Manhattan markets, this is the antidote.
15. Château le Woof âHowl-idayâ Market
đ Date
Sunday, Dec 21, 2025
3pmâ7pm
đ Dog Policy
DOGS ARE THE VIPs!
Off-leash in designated areas
đ° Cost
FREE
Hold up. This is at NYCâs FIRST DOG CAFĂ. Your dog can be off-leash while you shop. This is not a drill.
A free community holiday market at Château le Woof (31-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria) geared toward pet lovers. Local vendors sell dog treats, handmade pet apparel, toys, accessories, plus non-pet gifts by Astoria artisans. Pet photo ops (think Santa Paws or the Grinch), full cafĂŠ menu including âpuppuccinos,â and a festive âpaw-lidayâ party atmosphere.
What to expect: Lots of dogs in ugly sweaters and holiday costumes. Your dog making friends while you sip a latte. Peak wholesome energy. This is basically what heaven looks like if youâre a dog person.
16. Jackson Heights Holiday Lights
đ Dates
Mid-Dec through early Jan
Nightly
đ Dog Policy
Yes! Open neighborhood
Perfect for relaxed walks
đ° Cost
FREE
A charming local lights display in one of Queensâ most diverse communities (around 34th Ave, 37th Ave, 74thâ80th St). Homeowners adorn stoops, balconies, and street trees with twinkling lights, glowing inflatables, and festive decorations. The Jackson Heights Beautification Group also strings lights along the avenues.
Why itâs special: This is quieter and less crowded than Dyker Heightsâperfect for dogs who prefer a laid-back stroll. Youâll see multicultural touches (LED Diwali lights mixed with Christmas wreaths) reflecting the neighborhood. Itâs off-the-beaten-path holiday charm with plenty of space to walk at your dogâs pace.
Best streets: 75th St, 76th St, and 34th Avenue around Travers Park
The Bronx: Authentic NYC
17. Bronx Holiday Market at Fordham Plaza
đ Dates
Every Saturday through Dec 28
4pmâ10pm
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs allowed
Sometimes water bowls provided
đ° Cost
FREE
A lively evening market at Fordham Plaza (1 Fordham Plazaâopen-air plaza above Metro-North) featuring local artisans, merchants, and food vendors. One-of-a-kind crafts, handmade jewelry, art, winter apparel, and Bronx-themed items. The real draw? International street food reflecting the Bronxâs diversity: coquito (Puerto Rican holiday eggnog), homemade tamales, West African snacks, and more.
Vibe: Street-fair energy with music (DJs or live performances). Spacious plaza, though it can get crowded. A terrific opportunity to support Bronx small businesses. Your dog will love the food smells (youâll love the actual food).
18. Arthur Avenue âLittle Italyâ Holiday Lights
đ Dates
Early Dec â New Yearâs
Tree lighting was Dec 6, 5pm
đ Dog Policy
Yes! Outdoor streets
Many restaurants are pet-friendly
đ° Cost
FREE
The Bronxâs Little Italy (Arthur Ave & E 187th St) gets decked out in old-world holiday style. String lights and wreaths span the street, creating classic Italian-American Christmas vibes. The Dec 6 tree-lighting included carolers, free cannoli, and Santa Claus. Throughout December, stroll past famed Italian bakeries, butchers, and cheese shops with Christmas scenes in storefronts.
Why itâs great: Lower-key and more authentic than midtownâs crowds. Your dog will appreciate the steady stream of dropped food morsels (prosciutto, anyone?). Many sidewalk cafĂŠs are pet-friendly if you want to grab a cappuccino and cannoli. Just keep your pup close on weekends when sidewalks get busy.
Location: Arthur Avenue between E 186th & E 187th Streets, Belmont
Staten Island: The Underrated Borough
19. Empire Outlets Holiday Vendor Market
đ Dates
Dec 3â4, 2025
11amâ7pm (weekend event)
đ Dog Policy
Leashed dogs welcome
Outdoor areas of outlets
đ° Cost
FREE
A waterfront holiday market at Empire Outlets (55 Richmond Terrace, St. Georgeâright by the ferry terminal) with AMAZING Manhattan skyline views. About 30+ vendors selling handmade jewelry, art, candles, and gourmet snacks. Live music, carolers, and a Christmas tree at the center. The space is open-air and spaciousâpleasant for dogs.
Bonus adventure: Dogs are allowed on the Staten Island Ferry (in carriers or leashed on outside decks). The ferry ride itself is a free tourist experience with incredible harbor views. Make a whole outing of it!
20. DiMartinoâs Lights for Life
đ Dates
Late Nov â New Yearâs
Nightly, duskâ10pm+
đ Dog Policy
Yes! View from sidewalk/street
Many families bring pups
đ° Cost
FREE
(Donations encouraged)
A single-home display that rivals theme parks. Not exaggerating.
Retiree Joe DiMartino transforms his house (107 Sharrotts Road, Charleston) into a mesmerizing wonderland every year in memory of his late wife. Weâre talking dozens of mechanized dolls, a moving train, singing animatronics, giant nutcrackers, a life-size Nativity scene, and 100,000+ lights synchronized to music. Itâs Staten Islandâs answer to Dyker Heights.
Good cause: Visitors are encouraged to donate to Staten Island University Hospitalâs Pediatric Cancer unit (donation box on-site). The entire neighborhood participates with decorated homes, making for a great walk.
Dog note: Some dogs might bark at the animatronic elves. Totally understandable. Weeknights are less congested for a calmer visit.
Quick Reference Guide by Borough
| Event | Borough | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bryant Park Winter Village | Manhattan | Market | Iconic NYC experience |
| Union Square Market | Manhattan | Market | Local artisans + dog run |
| Doxie Parade | Manhattan | Dog event | Maximum cuteness |
| Rockefeller Tree | Manhattan | Attraction | Must-see (go late/early) |
| Dyker Heights Lights | Brooklyn | Lights | MOST EXTRA display |
| FAD Market | Brooklyn | Market | Brooklyn makers |
| DUMBO Archway Market | Brooklyn | Market | Vintage + skyline views |
| Château le Woof | Queens | Dog cafÊ market | Off-leash dog heaven |
| Jackson Heights Lights | Queens | Lights | Quiet, diverse charm |
| Arthur Avenue | The Bronx | Lights + shops | Italian-American tradition |
| DiMartinoâs Lights | Staten Island | Lights | Theme park-level display |
Pro Tips for NYC Holiday Adventures with Your Dog
đ Transportation Tips
- â˘Small dogs can ride the subway in carriers (not just strollersâactual carriers)
- â˘Large dogs? Walk, Uber, or go during off-peak hours when conductors are lenient
- â˘Staten Island Ferry allows leashed dogs on outdoor decks
- â˘Most taxis/Ubers allow dogs if you ask nicely (tip well!)
â° Timing Strategy
- â˘Weekday mornings = calm, pleasant, actually enjoyable
- â˘Weekend afternoons = tourist apocalypse (avoid with dogs)
- â˘Late nights (after 9pm) = empty streets, magical lights, zero crowds
- â˘First week of December = decorations up, crowds not yet insane
đ Dog Comfort
- â˘Bring a collapsible water bowlâhydration is key
- â˘Dog booties for salt/ice protection (yes, they look ridiculous; yes, they work)
- â˘Keep treats handy for positive reinforcement in crowds
- â˘Know where dog runs are for emergency energy burns
đ¸ Photo Ops
- â˘Rockefeller Tree: Go late or early, shoot from periphery
- â˘Dyker Heights: Your dog + massive inflatable Santa = viral content
- â˘DUMBO: Manhattan Bridge + dog = classic NYC shot
- â˘Union Square LOVE sculpture: Mandatory dog photo spot
The Real Talk Section
Letâs Be Honest About NYC Holidays with Dogs
The good: NYC during the holidays is genuinely magical. The lights, the energy, the marketsâitâs everything you want it to be. And unlike many cities, NYC actually ALLOWS dogs at most outdoor events because New Yorkers are sensible people who understand dogs are family.
The bad: The crowds. Oh god, the crowds. If your dog gets anxious around people, stick to the quieter options (Jackson Heights lights, Arthur Avenue, early morning visits). Donât force your pup into Times Square-level chaos just for the âgram.
The ugly: Sidewalk salt. Ice. Slush. Your dogâs paws will take a beating. Booties arenât optionalâtheyâre essential. Also, not everyone loves dogs (shocking, I know), so be courteous and keep your pup from blocking crowded market aisles.
The bottom line: Pick 3-4 events from this list that match your dogâs personality. Donât try to do everything. Quality over quantity. Your dog will have a better time at two calm events than at five overwhelming ones.
Final Thoughts
New York City during the holidays is one of those experiences that lives up to the hypeâand bringing your dog makes it even better. (Unless your dog hates crowds, in which case, refer to the âquiet optionsâ section.)
Whether youâre hitting all five boroughs or just exploring your neighborhood, thereâs something magical about experiencing the season with your four-legged best friend by your side. The markets, the lights, the energyâitâs quintessential NYC.
Just remember: your dog doesnât care if you see every market. They just want to be with you. So pick the events that work for YOUR dogâs personality, time it right to avoid crowds, and bring treats for both of you.
Now get out there and make some memories. Your dogâs Instagram isnât going to update itself. đđ
đž Happy Holidays from DogCityGuide NYC! đž
All information current as of December 2025. Always verify dates/policies on official websites before visiting. Stay safe and have fun!
