Christmas Market IV - New York City

The holiday season is here.  One way to get into the spirit of the season is to go to a Christmas Market.  The sights, sounds and smells of a market evoke thoughts of a Dickens' or old world Christmas.  Originally a European tradition, begun in the 1400s in Germany, more and more markets are being held in cities around the globe.

Over the holiday season you will have the opportunity to read about some Christmas Markets in North America, and in other countries - this time, the Christmas Markets of New York City.

New York City is always a great place to visit, and it is no different in the holiday season.  In fact, it seems as if the magic and the intrigue of the city is even greater at this time.  What better way to get in the holiday spirit than to visit one of its Christmas Markets, do some shopping and indulge in some holiday treats?  Three markets in particular are at Union Square, Central Park at Columbus Circle, and Bryant Park.  All three markets are free and are inspired by the European-style Christmas markets.

The Winter Village at Bryant Park - Bryant Park is known for its skating rink in winter; however, at Christmas that's not all.  Surrounding the ice rink are glass huts that are selling gifts for the holidays.  As well there are many food stands selling usual fare.  It is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, and 40th and 42nd Streets.

The Winter Village at Bryant Park is open October 21, 2014 to January 4, 2015.  Hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  Check the website for special events schedule throughout the season.

The skating rink at Bryant Park is free.  It is open from October 21, 2014 to March 1, 2015 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.  Skates can be rented for $15.  There are lockers available to leave your valuables.  This is a chance for some exercise in winter among the towers of Manhattan. Not a skater?  Don't worry, lessons are available.  http://www.wintervillage.org/skate/lessons


Celsius is a restaurant, lounge and bar overlooking the rink, the Christmas tree, and the Winter Village at Bryant Park.

The Winter Village at Bryant Park is accessible by subway.  Take the B, D, F or M trains to 42nd Street/Bryant Park or the 7 train to Fifth Avenue.

http://www.wintervillage.org

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market and The Union Square Holiday Market are both run by the same group, UrbanSpace, and have a similar feel.  Wander the stalls selling handmade gifts and wonderful food items at either market.

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market as its name suggests is at Columbus Circle.  Its picturesque setting at the edge Central Park is delightful in itself.  It is open from December 2 to 24; Monday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Trains 1, A, B, C, D will get you to this holiday market.  Get off at 59th St/Columbus Circle.

http://urbanspacenyc.com/columbus-circle-holiday-market/

The Union Square Holiday Market is located at Union Square and 14th Street.  The market opens November 20 and runs until December 24.  Its hours of operation are weekdays 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., and Sundays 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

To get to the market by subway take Trains 4, 5, 6, N, R, Q, or L to 14th st/Union Square station.

http://urbanspacenyc.com/union-square-holiday-market/

These Christmas Markets are easily accessible by subway as noted above.  New York City is within a day's drive of many cities in the northeastern US and eastern Canada.  An abundance of daily flights are available to the many airports that serve the greater New York City area.  There are many hotels and restaurants in the city offering a variety of types, services and prices.