The Winter Village at Bryant Park returned to New York City this season, marking more than 20 years of holiday cheer.
A staple for both tourists and locals, Bryant Park’s Winter Village, by Bank of America, radiates holiday magic. During the preview, families, friends and festive crowds gathered inside The Lodge to get a glimpse of the season’s first tastes and sights.
Featuring ice skating, an extensive food hall and bar, and more than 180 holiday shops, the Winter Village is a one-stop shop for all things seasonal.
“There’s nothing like being here, in the heart of New York City,” said John Zeitoun, the director of partnerships at Bryant Park
First launched in 2002, the Winter Village has grown rapidly over the years into an annual must-visit.
While the Winter Village is home to over 180 holiday shops, Zeitoun’s favorite happens to be Bryant Park’s small business spotlight. “It’s a fantastic program presented by the Bank of America,” he said. “Every year, folks can enter to be a part of it and for about two weeks the vendors rotate into the small business spotlight. The bank covers the rent and furnishes it, and gives these New York businesses a great opportunity.”
This year, the small business spotlight will feature Tribe & Oak, Jay Ceramics, Smar Art, and Vanilla Joe & Co throughout the duration of the Winter Village, giving each its own time to shine.
“I’ve seen the impact this program has had on small businesses,” Zeitoun said. “We’ve actually seen some folks who have since graduated to become a vendor here full-time on their own. It’s just a great program that gives back.”
Beyond shopping: What else to expect at the Winter Village at Bryant Park
Beyond the shopping, there are endless options here at Bryant Park’s Winter Village for sweet treats. There are dozens of places to get holiday staples such as hot chocolate. One hot chocolate place located directly outside of The Lodge is called “Smores N’More.” Here, the vendors will roast delicious marshmallows to accompany a cup of fresh hot chocolate.
Another can’t miss of Bryant Park is The Lodge, where you can fill up on some delicious food before trying out a signature cocktail. Zeitoun recommends taking a good lap around the Village, shopping up an appetite, taking a break at The Lodge for some food and drink, and then finishing it off by ice skating.
While the Winter Village may only be a seasonal visit once a year, it takes the team a year-round initiative to plan. “We joke that it’s always winter at Bryant Park just because, as you can imagine, there’s a lot to do.”
So whether it’s shopping, eating, or just enjoying the festivities, Bryant Park Winter Village has it all. “We have something for everyone on your list. If you want to shop, or just take in the skating, or be in the center of the action,” Zeitoun said. “What I love is that there’s something here for everyone of all ages.”
