LIRR Launches Express Holiday Trains Amidst Grand Central Fair Expansion
The annual market under Vanderbilt Hall opens for seven weeks, while the rail service introduces limited-stop express routes from Long Island to the hub.
By Nia Foster ·
Commuters seeking seasonal gifts can now shop at the Grand Central Holiday Fair, which opened on Monday for its 2026 season. The market operates under the vaulted ceilings of Vanderbilt Hall, adjacent to the station's main 42nd Street entrance. It runs through Christmas Eve, offering a specific retail destination within the transit hub.
The Long Island Rail Road will operate express "holiday shopper trains" for the first time this year. These services will run between Ronkonkoma and Grand Central Madison with limited stops. LIRR President Rob Free stated the goal is to allow passengers to reach the fair quickly before the holiday season ends. He emphasized that the new trains serve those who prefer rail travel for shopping trips.
The fair features more than 35 small vendors across three rows of stalls. Merchants sell handmade jewelry, artwork, clothing, home goods, and holiday-themed items. Hennessy sponsors the event and operates a booth called the Hennessy Postal Club. Patrons can write holiday cards at the stall and participate in live illustrating and engraving events.
Vendor participation includes both returning and new sellers. Gina Riley, who sells handmade handbags and jewelry through Rebel Designs, said she participates every year. Ben Lenovitz, a first-time vendor, offers custom paintings of pets. He asked customers to bring photos of their dogs and cats because he is allergic to both animals. MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara noted the event adds to the city's holiday programming.
Operating hours vary by date. From November 9 through December 16, the fair is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Hours extend to 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from December 17 through December 23. On December 24, the market closes at 6 p.m. A separate Thanksgiving market will take place on November 24 in the Biltmore Room near Metro-North's Track 42.
Free highlighted the accessibility of Grand Central via the LIRR, subway, and Metro-North Railroad. He described the location as the easiest way to cross gifts off a shopping list using the transportation network. Rieara described the timing as special and expressed excitement about adding to the holiday magic around the city.
