Holiday Shopping Made Easy (And Fun!)
If holiday shopping in the department stores is wearing you out, why not stop by one of the many craft fairs around Manhattan? You are guaranteed to find one-of-a-kind items while getting into the holiday spirit. Here are a few of the most notable craft fairs in the city.
In the style of European tradition, The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park are once again open. Handmade gifts from around the world can be found at this annual holiday market. Finish the afternoon by visiting the centerpiece of Bryant Park, The Pond at Bryant Park. This ice skating rink offers free admission, skate rentals, and skating shows.
Location: Bryant Park, Sixth Avenue between West 40th and West 42nd Street (map)
Getting There: B, D, F, Q to 42nd Street-Bryant Park or 7 train to 5th Avenue
Dates and Times: Shops open daily through Dec 30th. Mon-Fri 11-8, Sat 10-9, Sun 10-6
Now in it’s 11th year, the Union Square Holiday Market features handmade and imported gifts. As you browse the festive red-and-white booths you will find holiday ornaments and decorations, toys for the kids, gourmet foods, baked goods, handcrafted jewelry and leather, candles and bath oils, pet accessories, and much more.
Location: South end of Union Square Park at West 14th Street (map) (212) 529-9262
Getting There: N, R, Q, W, L, 4, 5 or 6 train to Union Square/14th St.
Dates and Times: Daily through Dec 24th. Mon- Fri 11-8, Sat 10-8, Sun 11-7, Christmas Eve 10-4.
The Grand Central Holiday Gift Fare at Vanderbilt Hall, features selections of gifts from over 70 specialty vendors. There’s something for everyone on your list. While you’re there, take some time from your shopping and check out the Kaleidoscope Light Show which graces the walls of the main concourse every half hour on the hour from 11 am until 9 pm.
Location: Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal, East 42nd at Park Avenue (map)
Getting There: S, 4, 5, 6, 7 to Grand Central-42nd Street
Dates and Times: Shops open daily through Dec 29th. Mon-Sat 10-8, Sunday 11-7. Closed Christmas.
Food, beer, a DJ, and crafts? It sounds like an uncommon combination but that is exactly what you will find at the one-day BUST Magazine Holiday Craftacular. Over 200 vendors will sell their crafty items such as silk screened t-shirts, vamped up vintage clothing, knitware, and other unique handmade items. Comedian and domestic goddess Amy Sedaris will also be appearing and signing copies of her book I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence. When you need to take a break from the holiday spirit, grab a hot dog and beer from the Sparky’s American Food table and jingle your bells on the Craftacular dance floor.
Location: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street (map)
Getting There: L, V, F to 14th Street or 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, W, to Union Square
Date and Time: Dec 8th. One day only! 10am-8pm
Cost: Admission is $1 and includes a raffle ticket which will give you a chance at winning a prize in the Craftacular Raffle.
Also, beginning Monday, December 3rd check out my Twelve Days of Christmas Gift Guide for ideas on what gifts to purchase this holiday season.
Photo credit: SXC
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1 opinion for Holiday Shopping Made Easy (And Fun!)
Easy Holiday Craft
Dec 15, 2007 at 11:12 pm
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