Christmas at Bryant Park

Today, let me show you how Bryant Park celebrates the holidays. 

Bryant Park is located on 42nd Street and 6th Avenue in New York City.  I like this park a lot. It's a patch of calm in the middle of Manhattan's tall buildings and the always busy Times Square. And there's lots to do -- sip a coffee, read on a lawn chair, play petanque, chess or table tennis, take the kids to le carrousel, do some group yoga, and watch a concert or movie in the summer.      

When the holidays arrive, it's decked with 

a skating rink and a Christmas tree!

Ice skating in the winter and in New York City, no less! 

If you prefer to just watch, there's a heated bar

serving drinks and light meals. 

Surrounding all of this are the Holiday Shops -- glass-covered booths showcasing gifts, souvenirs, clothing and goodies to satisfy the tummy.

Get yourself a cup of tea to enjoy while walking around or purchase a canister for the tea-lovers in your life. 

There are at least two shops selling hot chocolate and another selling hot apple cider.

There are food stalls offering French macarons, churros, chocolates, crepes, waffles, popcorn and savory snacks.

Here are just some of the cute stuff you'll find:

 Desk accessories and stationery

 I'm not certain if these are costumes or funny pajamas

Gloves for children in the shape of bear paws 

Fuzzy animal slippers 

There are many tree ornaments for sale. Some can even be personalized! I was drawn to this bunch -- the characters from The Wizard of Oz. 

 Fragrant hand soaps and body creams

Wallets and bags with quirky photos as the main design

Creature clocks with wagging tails

This shop was selling girly merchandise like jewelry and accessories. I love the French country interiors!

 Lovely ceramics like mugs, bowls and wall decorations

This shop, called "Mr. Ellie Pooh's Fair Trade", takes recycling to a whole new level -- elephant waste is turned into gifts like notebooks and greeting cards.

And finally, a shop selling bracelets, clocks and journals made from old vinyl records {blah to TADA!}.  See you back tomorrow!

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
October 26, 2012 to January 6, 2013
Monday to Friday: 11 AM to 8 PM
Saturday: 10 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM

Bryant Park is situated behind the New York Public Library
in midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets &
Fifth and Sixth Avenues.