Skip the lines this holiday season and forget the crowds at Bryant Park. New York City has plenty of smaller free-to-visit markets where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts and actually enjoy shopping.

Here are four under-the-radar spots to shop local, discover new makers and ring in the holiday season.

Manhattan

Church of Sweden Julmarknad (Midtown)

Hidden on 48th Street, this Swedish holiday market inside the 103-year-old Church of Sweden feels like a secret Nordic escape. The Julmarknad fills the space with handmade ornaments, Dala horses, winter crafts and the scent of cardamom and saffron buns.

Downstairs, the cafe serves Swedish meatballs, open-faced sandwiches and pastries, a cozy retreat right in Midtown.

WHERE Church of Sweden, 5 E. 48th St.

WHEN Noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday

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