NYC Shopping Guide - Fêtes de Noël

Bryant Park located directly behind the main branch of the New York Public Library is one of New York City's largest holiday markets. 125 vendors in tented stalls surround the seasonal ice skating rink.

The combination of free ice skating (through January 1, 2007), of cocoa available from Jacques Torres' stand, quaint shopping booths and holiday lights makes this European style winter wonderland an experience worth venturing out for.

While in the area, stop into the library. The lobby architecture and painted ceiling in the main reading room are quite beautiful. Bryant Park is within easy walking distance of the Grand Central market described above. For a full day of shopping combine these two venues.

NYC Shopping Guide - Union Square Market

Downtown Manhattan's Union Square has been revolutionized in recent years by the opening of stores and restaurants. During the holidays, the Union Square market takes of the south side of this crossroads with nearly one hundred vendors selling gift items ranging from knits, leathers, candles, toys, apothecary items and jewelry.

The Union Square Market holiday fair is located in 14th Street at Union Square and it takes place from November 23 until December 24, 2006.

NYC Shopping Guide - Columbus Circle Holiday Market

This market is the uptown version of the Union Square market. Organized by the same producers, the Columbus Circle market is similar in design and merchandise selection but somewhat smaller due to available space. Its smaller size is more than compensated for by its easily accessible location - right at the main entrance to Central Park and across the street from the Time Warner complex.

For a day of brisk walking and shopping set out early. Give yourself enough time to spend time in the Time Warner complex. You'll enjoy the chance to warm up in the many indoor shops before heading back out for a stroll through Central Park. Whole Foods market on the lower level is a good place to grab a self service bite to eat. Its a bit pricey but wholesome and tasty, and seating is provided.

NYC Shopping Guide - Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair

Massive crowds and a lack of unique merchandise has caused many shoppers to move away from large malls and department store settings and to attend the growing number of holiday markets that take place around the city each year during this gift giving season. Outdoor settings and holiday themes create a village market atmosphere that many find welcoming.

This season why not try Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair for a taste of New York City shopping - holiday style. See Vanderbilt Hall transformed into a bustling market with 75 vendors carrying jewelry, linens, apparel, art and decorative items for the season.

Lincoln Center Winter's Eve

The lighting of the Christmas tree at Lincoln Center's Josie Robertson plaza, has evolved into a full evening of entertainment. For seven years merchants in the Lincoln Center area sponsor entertainment. Musicians and other performers stroll the streets turning neighboring sidewalks into a festive community. Many local shops offer food tasting and other festive treats. The lighting of the tree takes place on Monday, November 27, 2006, at 5:30 p.m.

Wollman Skating Rink in Central Park

A continuous success since its inauguration in 1950, Wollman Skating Rink provides more than 30,000 square feet of skating surface in a scenic outdoor setting. In the evening, Fifth Avenue adds a dramatic backdrop.

Admission is $9.50 for adults ($12.00 on weekends) and $4.50 for children under twelve ($5.00 on weekends). Rental skates are available.

"The Apple Tree" Musical

Kristin Chenoweth whose role as Glinda in Broadway’s "Wicked" earned her instant stardom, will star in “The Apple Tree” this fall at Studio 54. The new musical which opens November 28 is scheduled for an open run and features music by Jerry Bock.

This Broadway remake of a 1966 play that starred Alan Alda and Barbara Harris is based on three separate books: Mark Twain’s “The diary of Adam and Eve”, Frank Stockton’s “The Lady or the Tiger” and Jules Feiffer’s “Passionella.”

The New York City Marathon - November 5, 2006

Each year over 90,000 runners apply for the chance to participate in the New York City Marathon. Those 37,000 lucky enough to be chosen transverse the City’s five boroughs in pursuit of the thrill of achievement and for the enjoyment of nearly 315 million spectators worldwide.

The race begins on at 10:00 a.m. on Staten Island and early runners begin to enter Central Park at about 11:45 a.m. Anywhere along the park drive offers good viewing. Bring your camera for a true Kodak moment.

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