Located in the heart of Manhattan, beautiful Bryant Park is transformed into a winter wonderland during the colder months. One of the highlights is the Bryant Park Christmas Market, a festive Winter Village filled with holiday shopping and delicious treats.
Keep reading for confirmed 2023 dates, opening times and what you can expect when you visit.
Bryant Park Christmas Market 2023
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is not just a market but a festive destination, complete with an ice skating rink, Bumper Cars on Ice, an après skate food hall, private igloos, and curling lanes.
The European-style stalls showcase local artisans and makers selling handmade goods alongside vendors serving locally sourced food, so you know you’re supporting local.
More details on the stalls and specific vendors are provided below.
Dates and Details
Bryant Park Winter Village dates: 27th October 2023 to 2nd January 2024.
Location: Bryant Park at 41st Street and 6th Ave.
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 11am to 8pm. Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 8pm.
Thanksgiving Day: 12pm to 5pm.
Christmas Day: 12pm to 5pm.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: Santa is available for photo ops on some mornings on a first come first served basis.
Ice skating: 27th October to 3rd March. 8am to 10pm. Free entry. Rent skates or bring your own.
Attractions: Bumper cars on ice, curling, private igloos. Book online.
Vegetarian: Yes, many options.
Vegan: Yes, many options.
Gluten-free: Yes, however, please check with individual vendors regarding potential cross-contamination.
Accessible: Yes, howerver there are steps at some kiosks. There are attendants available to help anyone requiring assistence. Don’t hesitate to ask them, they have portable ramps designed to help.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: This is one of New York’s most iconic holilday locations. You can enjoy ice skating, a vintage carousel, juggling, art exhibitions, the American symphony orchestra and or take part in a boot camp.
Recommended tour: If you’re visiting NYC and plan on visiting several attractions. Consider a City Pass to save on entrance fees.
Specialities: Swiss-style raclette, handmade boa buns, gingerbread cookies, cheesesteaks, thick-stuffed crepes, Mexican sandwiches and of course, German-style bratwurst.
Where to stay: Bryant Park Hotel is located directly opposite the park.
Stay Nearby
Bryant Park’s central location in midtown Manhattan makes it an ideal base for exploring New York City.
Within walking distance, you can experience the fashion-centric Garment District, the vibrant energy of Times Square, and the iconic Broadway shows of the Theater District.
This area is a hub of culture, history, shopping, and entertainment, perfect for a diverse city experience.
I recommend staying at the Bryant Park Hotel. It’s known for its style, cleanliness, and great value, especially given its location close to the holiday market and major city attractions.
Explore my guide to the top NYC Christmas markets for a magical holiday experience in New York City.
Location Map
What to Expect
There’s nothing quite like experiencing the holidays in New York City. Go ice skating at Central Park and Bryant Park, check out the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, and find unique gifts at the holiday markets. Don’t miss the spectacular window displays at the city’s famous department stores.
Food Kiosks
Gourmet Hot Dogs: A symbol of New York street food, you’ll find these hot dogs with creative toppings.
Belgian Waffles: These sweet snacks from Wafels & Dinges vendor are a must-try at the market. You can enjoy them with whipped cream, strawberries, chocolate fudge, and other toppings.
Artisanal Pretzels: New York takes its pretzels seriously, and at the Winter Village, vendors like Sigmund’s give the classic snack a gourmet twist. Look out for flavours like Truffle Cheddar and Feta Olive.
Roasted Nuts: Some vendors at the market sell roasted almonds, pecans and peanuts, keeping the tradition of this beloved winter snack going.
Hot Chocolate: A winter classic, hot chocolate from vendors like Max Brenner will help keep you warm. You can typically find variations with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a touch of peppermint.
Crepes: Served hot off the griddle, these French sweats contain ingredients like Nutella, strawberries, or savoury options like ham and cheese. The crepe stand is a popular spot at the market.
Artisanal Cheese: For something a little more upscale, check out the stands selling local and imported cheeses. You can often find complimentary pairings with locally sourced honey or fruit preserves.
United Chocolate Works: Unique and artistic chocolates moulded into tool shapes.
Woops!: A boutique kiosk with baked goods, coffee and tea.
Winter Pie Shop: Specialising in comforting winter pies, their products range from classic apple to more adventurous combinations.
Boa by Kaya: Serves up Asian street food meals, adding an international flair to the market food scene.
Cheesesteaks by the Truffleist: This kiosk takes the classic cheesesteak to a new level by incorporating gourmet truffle flavours.
Casa Toscana: Selling artisanal ice cream, a delicious sweet treat even in winter, with traditional and unique flavours.
Baked Cheese Haus: Famous for their raclette, here you’ll experience the spectacle of cheese being melted and scraped onto potatoes or bread.
Palenque BBQ: Providing the hearty, smoky flavours of traditional barbecue.
Nadas Empanadas: Hot, freshly made empanadas filled with various ingredients, adding a touch of South American cuisine to your market experience.
What to Buy
Handmade Jewellery: Kiosks present a variety of unique pieces, from statement necklaces to dainty bracelets. Local artists often craft these, providing a touch of NYC uniqueness.
Artisanal Soaps and Candles: Many stands sell beautifully scented, handcrafted soaps and candles. Often made with natural ingredients, they are excellent gifts or souvenirs.
Local Artwork: Artists from the region showcase their talents in various forms, from prints to sculptures. These pieces capture the essence of New York and make unique home decor or thoughtful gifts.
Hand-Knit Accessories: Find stalls with hats, scarves and mittens, often hand-knitted and in unique styles.
Gourmet Food: From locally made honey and jams to artisanal chocolates, these edible treats are good as stocking stuffers or gifts for foodie friends.
Handmade Toys: Stalls with handmade toys can make unique gifts for the little ones.
Natural Olivewood: Provides a range of gifts crafted from olivewood, with the wood’s unique grain lending each item a distinct charm.
Sabyloo: Specialises in pet gifts, making it an ideal spot to pick up something special for your four-legged friend this festive season.
Soy Logic: Low-impact candles made from soy wax, an eco-friendly choice for cosy, scented lighting.
Bonne et Filou: Gourmet dog macarons; a genuinely high-end treat for pets.
Breezy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill: With its range of fresh apple ciders and other orchard goods, it’s a perfect spot for picking up a taste of local agriculture.
Cantina Royal: Renowned for its range of gourmet sauces, ideal for gifting to food enthusiasts or adding a culinary twist to your holiday meals.
Glass Ornaments: Stunning hand-blown glass ornaments that would make a beautiful addition to any Christmas tree.
Chopstick Art: Gifts and household items made from recycled chopsticks, blending creativity with sustainability.
Doughnuttery: Mini doughnuts in various inventive flavours.
Ebb & Flow NYC: Handmade skincare products that are a luxury gift option for those who enjoy self-care.
Hells Kitchen Hot Sauce: A range of spicy sauces that could be an ideal gift for the spice lovers in your life.
Himalayan Artwear: Clothing and accessories inspired by Himalayan culture and design.
Kizmet Yogawear: Features a collection of comfortable, fashionable yoga wear.
Miss Tea: Showcases a variety of organic teas, perfect for gifting to tea enthusiasts.
If you’re planning a trip to New York City, be sure to check out the official website of the New York tourist office. It’s a great resource for discovering all the top attractions and events in the city.
Sustainability Tips
Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are some ways that people can be more sustainable:
Ethical Consumption: Shop from socially conscious brands, such as the fair-trade and sustainable products at the Soy Logic kiosk or Patagonia’s NYC store, known for its commitment to ethical sourcing.
Reduce Food Waste: Aim to order only as much as you’re sure you can eat at NYC’s holiday markets, and don’t be shy about asking for a doggy bag and taking leftovers with you.
Renewable Energy: If you’re visiting New York, consider staying in a hotel that uses renewable energy sources.
Sustainable Diets: Consider eating at some of NYC’s vegan or vegetarian restaurants to reduce your carbon footprint; places like The Butcher’s Daughter or abcV have excellent plant-based options.
Sustainable Transport: NYC’s public transport system is extensive; take advantage of the Metro, buses or even the CitiBike scheme for a greener way to get around. For trips within Manhattan, consider walking.
These small but significant choices will contribute to a more sustainable and eco-conscious holiday season in NYC.
Please comment below if you want to leave a review of Bryant Park Xmas Market.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Bryant Park, New York. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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