NYC Gazette

As the fall semester comes to a close, NYU students across various global sites have been engaging with local holiday markets. These markets provide an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in cultural traditions while enjoying seasonal festivities.

In Dresden, Germany, students from NYU Prague joined peers from other colleges on December 6 to explore the Striezelmarkt, one of Europe's largest holiday markets. Sacha Licholai, a junior studying film at the Tisch School of the Arts, remarked on the unique tradition of reusable cups for mulled wine. "The stalls were beautifully decorated," she said. “It was the most beautiful Christmas market I've ever seen.”

Meanwhile, NYU Florence organized a visit to Verona, Italy. The city's "Mercatini di Natale" features wooden stalls offering local foods and crafts along Via Pallone. Students experienced traditional treats like vin brulè and pandoro amid Verona's historic setting.

In Madrid, Spain, about 16 students concluded their semester with a visit to La Navideña at Plaza de España. Known for its nativity scene figurines and traditional foods such as churros and hot cocoa, this market also offers ice skating under the stars.

Berlin's Lucia Christmas Market is conveniently located outside NYU Berlin’s academic center in Kulturbrauerei. The market includes handcrafts and local foods set against daily performances and festive attractions like a swing carousel.

Back in New York City, the Union Square Holiday Market remains a staple since 1980. With over 180 stalls featuring local artisans and food vendors, it offers a vibrant slice of New York's holiday spirit.