NYC- Bryant Park X-mas market
 

Who's been, what are your thoughts and how does it compare to the one at Grand Central? Thanks in advance for any input.

I went to both last year, and bought a few things at each. It just depends on the individual vendors and what you specifically are interested in. You should go to both. They're not that far apart, and it doesn't take all that long to see what's there. Bryant Park one is bigger, outside, and has ice skaters to watch. GCS has a really neat light show on the walls--that's why I was there in the first place, and just happened upon the market. I got a neat purse at the Recycled Planet Store at GCS and some great bangle bracelets at shoplolabean at Bryant Park. Lolabean and Recycled Planet have websites if you want to check them out.

I, the Great and Powerful Thingorjus, prefer the Union Square Christmas Market. My favourite stand is Ben/Oliver for soap and bath bombs. You can also just walk across the street for DSW.

Thanks so far, anyone else?

I actually find that they all tend to have the same thing or at least an overlap of some of the booths. I like the one at Grand Central just because it is inside and beats shopping outside if it is really cold. I also like the Union Square one because it seems bigger. I would have to say that Bryant Park Market is third on my list.

ttt

I've been to all three, and they're all basically identical. And there's nothing to be said that hasn't been said here. If the weather is bad, Grand Central is nice because it's indoors. Union Square is traditionally the largest. It's less than 10 minute walk from Bryant Park to Grand Central, so you can always move between them.

At the Bryant Park market on a really cold day, the vendors looked miserable, and the enormous energy waste from their blasting heaters in the open stalls made the whole setup look ludicrous. Who thought of having an outdoor market in the winter?

On the other hand, I've also visited when the temp was in the 60s and the skaters were the ones who looked unhappy, with big puddles to avoid.

Its very nice to go to the market just after it gets dark, with the lights on, it has a very festive feel. There are lots of nice things for sale but no bargains.
Have fun.

They also have a similar one at Union Square.

Another vote for Union Square ... my favorite atmosphere .. have a hot chocolate while shopping.