Christmas Markets in the US - First Stop, Bryant Park, New York City
Christmas markets are the rage throughout Europe, a
tradition that brings people together to eat, drink gluhwein (hot spiced wine),
and shop for local trinkets from now through the end of the year. After returning from visiting these markets
in five cities, I was eager to check out the ones in the United States.
Starting with New York City, my
favorite is the Winter Village at Bryant Park. It may not be as large as the
one by Columbus Circle or the one at Union Square but it gets my vote for its
variety of attractions. When you’re
tired of shopping, there are many eating outlets, a convenient restroom, and
there’s an ice skating rink that’s FREE. (Take that, Rockefeller Center!).
Another plus: pretty much every form of
transportation is nearby, from myriad subway lines to the bus down Fifth Avenue,
and easy access to the trains from Grand Central Terminal. Among my favorite shopping booths, there are
the unusual ones like “Don’t Chew” for all forms of melt-in-your-mouth
chocolates, things made out of coins, and Brazilian home décor. You’ll also outfit yourself to the nines with
everything warm with flannel pajamas, scarves, gloves, and hats galore. I also love the fact that Sabon has a branch
here so I can do some quick shopping without having to find a storefront, and
that you can stare up at the Christmas tree with a backdrop of the skyscrapers
on Sixth Avenue.
Food choices are pretty
varied with Waffles and Dinges for those craving a sweet fix, or grilled cheese,
arepas, and 'wichcraft sandwiches to keep you satisfied. Although I didn’t find the alcoholic gluhwein
that’s ubiquitous at European Christmas markets, there was a Bavarian stand
with Sigmund’s Pretzels and another that sold a non-alcoholic version of hot
wine and hot apple cider.
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