I was so excited to be invited to the press preview for the Bryant Park Winter Village. I love that Bryant Park is turned into a winter wonderland every year. The 2024 edition is full of festive vibes, unique shopping, delicious food, and seasonal activities nicely situated smack dab in the middle of the city!
Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect when you visit Winter Village 2024:
1. Ice Skating Rink
• Free Admission: The centerpiece of Bryant Park’s Winter Village is its famous 17,000-square-foot ice skating rink, which remains the only free-admission rink in NYC (although skate rentals are available for a fee, about $22 per person).
• Season-Long Fun: the rink actually opened in late October and runs through early March, offering visitors a long season of skating. Skate sessions can be booked in advance online, which is highly recommended, especially during peak holiday times.
2. Holiday Shops
• Unique Vendors: Over 150 vendors line Bryant Park’s European-inspired open-air market, offering a curated collection of jewelry, home goods, art, clothing, and festive decorations. Many vendors bring artisanal or handmade items, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
• Heated Outdoor Spaces: To make winter shopping more comfortable, some areas now feature heated nooks and covered spaces. You’ll find these around the “jewel box” kiosks that give the Winter Village its signature cozy yet chic vibe.
3. The Lodge by Prime Video
• Dining Hall with Variety: This massive, heated lounge and food hall offers seasonal bites, hot chocolate, holiday cocktails, and an array of other treats. Inside, visitors can find cuisines from around the world, with a mix of classic New York foods and international street food.
• Warmth and Comfort: This is a great spot to relax with friends or family, warm up from the cold, and enjoy Bryant Park’s holiday atmosphere. The Lodge often hosts live performances, DJs, and movie nights, adding to the holiday spirit.
4. Special Events and Performances
• Tree Lighting Ceremony: Bryant Park’s annual tree lighting event is one of the highlights of the season. It usually takes place in early December and includes a festive program with live music, performances, and sometimes even a synchronized skate performance on the rink.
• Weekly Performances and Pop-Ups: Throughout the season, the Winter Village also hosts family-friendly pop-up events, like kids’ craft workshops, choir performances, and themed skating events that add to the winter magic. Each weekend often features unique shows or markets with a different theme.
5. Winter Village for All Ages
• Families will find plenty of activities for all ages, from skating lessons for beginners to Santa meet-and-greets and craft stations for kids. Couples and groups of friends can book private igloos for a cozy, picture-perfect holiday hangout.
How to Get There and What to Expect:
Bryant Park Winter Village is easily accessible via multiple subway lines, with close proximity to Times Square and other holiday destinations like Rockefeller Center. The nearest train is the F stop at 42nd and Sixth. Visiting during weekdays or early morning hours is ideal if you want a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be bustling.
Overall, Bryant Park Winter Village 2024 is a mix of holiday joy, New York charm, and an international, vibrant atmosphere that brings people together in the spirit of the season. Whether you’re skating under the lights, browsing for gifts, or enjoying hot cocoa, the Winter Village is the ultimate NYC holiday experience! For more info, check out this link: BRYANT PARK WINTER VILLAGE. (My own favorite event at the Winter Village is the Christmas tree lighting! Food-wise, I am crazy for munching on bao at Bao By Kao and bomboloni at Toscana Cafe which are pictured above!)
