The Hoboken Girl Team 
This article is sponsored by the Historic Downtown Special Improvement District (HDSID).
‘Tis the season for cozy vibes, festive fun, and holiday shopping: Jersey City’s Happy Holiday Handmade Market is back for 2025 and making it all happen. Hosted by the Historic Downtown Special Improvement District (HDSID), this annual holiday bazaar brings together over 150 local artisans, delicious bites, and family-friendly activities for two weekends: December 13th + 14th and December 20th + 21st. Spread across two festive locations, The Grove Street PATH Plaza and The Ashford rooftop (145 Newark Avenue), The Happy Holiday Handmade Market is the perfect way to shop small, support local makers, and soak up the holiday spirit in the heart of Jersey City. Keep reading for all the details surrounding one of Jersey City’s favorite holiday markets.
All About the 2025 Happy Holiday Handmade Market
This year’s Happy Holiday Handmade Market brings together more than 150 makers across two weekends, offering everything from ceramics and home décor to kids’ apparel, jewelry, candles, skincare, and gourmet treats. The vendor list rotates each day, so no two visits are the same, and the variety makes it easy to find something meaningful for everyone on your list.
At the Grove Street PATH Plaza
At the Grove Street PATH Plaza, the outdoor space transforms into a lively holiday village filled with local makers, music, and seasonal backdrops that make the whole experience feel festive from the moment you arrive. Families can enjoy photobooths, carolers, and tasty bites while shoppers browse 50 vendors set up along the plaza.
At The Ashford Rooftop
A few blocks away, the heated rooftop at The Ashford is a cozier take on the market. The space features winter décor, a full bar serving seasonal cocktails, and a brunch menu for anyone looking to make a day of it. Shoppers can expect a curated mix of 20+ artisans, along with free gift wrapping that adds to the rooftop’s festive atmosphere.
Shop Local, Give Local
At its core, the Happy Holiday Handmade Market celebrates local creativity. Every purchase supports small businesses from Jersey City and the surrounding area, helping independent makers thrive during one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year. Some featured vendors include Nicknack Ceramics, IndieVynl, Hudson City Kids, Chrys Alva Photography, Ivellise Beauty Cosmetics, Ivy Mane Studio , BabaBoogs Candles, Sweet Aurora Soap and Candle, Andean Jewelry, TBA Coffee, and Madame Meats, among others.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
December weather can be unpredictable, so dressing warm is always a good idea, especially for the outdoor portion at Grove Street Plaza. Since vendors rotate throughout both weekends, checking the roster before arriving can help you plan your shopping route. A reusable bag makes carrying finds easier, and public transit is the simplest way to reach the market, with the Grove Street PATH steps away.
Special Pop-Ups
Throughout the event, visitors can expect additional pop-ups, including the NJ Lottery activation on December 20 and 21, the Metro Photo Bus on December 13, 20, and 21, and a Community Food Bank of New Jersey donation station collecting digital donations and nonperishables on December 13th and 20th.
About HDSID
The Historic Downtown Special Improvement District (HDSID) is a public-private partnership, 501(C) which allows local business owners to directly impact the neighborhoods in Historic Downtown Jersey City. The non-profit expanded to include 26 more businesses this spring and works with local businesses, property owners, and neighborhood associations in partnership with the city government. HDSID also has a clean team on duty seven days a week from 5AM-7PM to ensure the cleanliness of the downtown area.
Event Details
- Locations: Grove Street PATH Plaza + The Ashford Rooftop (145 Newark Avenue, Jersey City)
- Dates: December 13th–14th + December 20th–21st, 2025
- Time: 11AM – 6PM
- Admission: Free + Family-Friendly
The Happy Holiday Handmade Market is just one of the many events HDSID hosts throughout the year. Follow @hdsid_jc for updates and community happenings.
