Looking for unique gifts that can’t be found at the local Gap or Pottery Barn? You can find one-of-a-kind presents at New York City’s holiday shopping fairs and markets.

Every year, these temporary holiday shopping bazaars spring up in parks and public spaces around the city. Vendors set up booths to sell unique holiday gift items — many of them hand-made. You’ll find one-of-a-kind jewelry, hand-knit sweaters and scarves, holiday ornaments, toys, artwork, food items, and more.

1. The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park

Where: Bryant Park, 6th Ave. at 42nd St.; 866-221-5157
When: Daily from October 27, 2011 through January 8, 2012
Hours: Mon-Fri, 11am-8pm; Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 10am-6pm.

The Holiday Shops transform Bryant Park into an old-fashioned holiday market styled in the European tradition. This free holiday fair features more than 120 artisans and merchants from around the world. You’ll find special promotions, including discounts and samples, throughout the holiday season. While you’re there, take a shopping break for free ice skating at The Pond at Bryant Park.

2. Union Square Park Holiday Market
“union square holiday market”

Where: Union Square Park at 14th St., 212-529-9262.
When: November 17 through December 24, 2011 (closed Thanksgiving Day)
Hours: Daily, 11am-8pm

Union Square Park becomes a winter shopping wonderland with an outdoor holiday market featuring 100+ artisans and vendors. Located in the south section of the park near 14th St., the Union Square holiday fair offers deals on goodies like jewelry, candles, pottery, and much more. Fuel your shopping energy with stops at stands for sweet and savory treats and hot cider.

3. Columbus Circle Holiday Fair
“Time Warner Center Stars”

Where: Southwest entrance to Central Park at Central Park West and Central Park South; 212-529-9262.
When: November 30 through December 24, 2011
Hours: Daily, 10am to 8pm

Shop for special gifts in Central Park at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Organized by the same people behind the Union Square Holiday Market, the Columbus Circle shopping fair also features 100+ vendors and a wide selection of unique and handmade gifts.

4. Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair

Where: Grand Central Terminal, Vanderbilt Hall, 42nd St. and Park Ave.; 212-340-2210
When: November 14 through December 24, 2011
Hours: Daily, 10am-7pm. Closed on Thanksgiving Day.

5. Crafts at the Cathedral

Where: Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Avenue at 112th Street
When: December 2-4, 2011
Hours: Friday, 5-8pm; Saturday, 11am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm

Tickets can be purchased for $6 for daily admission and $7 for a weekend pass. All proceeds will benefit programs of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.