Ultimately, this is the time of the year to be in NYC. Tourists and residents enjoy the Christmas decor, the snow, and many flock over from around the world to hit up the holiday markets. Last year, we told you about one of our faves, Cala Design. Be sure to stop by as Advah Shani, the designer, has new leather handbags and designs every year. The two markets that I think will give you a wider variety of vendors are the markets at Union Square and Bryant Park.
Photo:GoNYC
The Union Square market lies between Broadway and University on 14th Street. The closest subways are the 4,5,6, or the N,J, and Q trains. The market hours are from 11am-8pm daily. As Christmas gets closer, the hours are extended which makes it convenient for last minute shopping. The market runs until December 24th and it will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Here you’ll find plent of hot apple cider to keep you warm and waffles with chocolate. There are a ton of artisans and jewelers that have gorgeous one of a kind delicately handmade jewelry. You’ll find anything from sterling silver to beautiful Native American turquoise necklaces. Leather pieces are everwhere, you’ll find stunning pressed leather handbags and wallets. There are baby shops and lots of apothecary. Plan on staying most of the day. There are limited restrooms, but you can sneak into the Toys R’ Us or wait in line at the Whole Foods across 14th Street.
Bryant Park is movie-esque. Plenty of my friends came last year and found themselves in the skating rink. Located between 5th and 6th Ave at 40th Street, you’ll find plenty to do in between. The closest subways are the 7, B, D, F and the M. If you walk to Times Square, which is two blocks over at 42nd Street, you can take the 1, 2, or 3. I love this park because of the plethora of restaurants, coffee shops, and even the New York Public Library, it gives you plenty to do in between. The market is open from October 27th to January 8th from 11am-8pm, Monday through Friday, Saturday 10am-9pm, and Sunday 10am-6pm. Be prepared for the crowds. Between the skating rink and the lines at the food vendors, bring your most comfy snow proof boots. It tends to get extremely cold due to the rink. Don’t worry, there is hot apple cider there too. Here, you’ll find similiar vendors just like the ones at Union Square, or the same ones such as Sabons. The difference is that some vendors are more high end and that means high priced. You’ll find chic eco-friendly wear, jewelry, Christmas decorations, home decor, hats, mittens, and other gifts to fill up those stockings.
The markets are a must. Not only are you supporting local businesses but you’ll enjoy and capture the spirit of Christmas, New York style.
Tags: Christina Rosas Anastasiiou, Holiday Markets Bryant Park, Holiday Markets in NYC 2011, Holiday Markets Union Square, LoveHauteStyle.com, LoveHauteStyleDaily.com
How can I contact Advah Shani of Cala design?