“How did it get so late so soon? It's night before it's afternoon. December is here before it's June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?” - Dr.Seuss
(photo courtesy of latkefest.com)
Remember when we were grateful for an extended autumn? Well, who knew it would last into December? We're not complaining, but we definitely keep forgetting that it's holiday season and you know what that means -- holiday markets and our favorite meals of the year!! Here's our first post of the holiday events happening around the city..
Treats & Eats
1. Both tourists and locals are always sure to make a stop at Bryant Park's Winter Village every year, and for good reason. With the dozens of stalls, you're sure to be busy perusing for hours - local artisans, as well as brick-and-mortars have homes for the month here. If shopping isn't on the agenda, there are the delicious food stalls scattered around the village, as well. Our favorites? Max Brenner Chocolate Bar, Enfes Turkish Food, and Union Square favorite Breads Bakery.
2. And of course, the piece de resistance, the ice rink; entry is free if you bring your own skates! But for those who prefer to stay on solid (and not slippery) ground, visit the adjacent bar/restaurant Celsius, complete with leather sofas and faux fur pillows. They have treats galore, as well as delicious drinks such as the Snowcap (a boozy version of a hot chocolate) and the Apresider (a less medicinal version of a hot toddy). They even have wifi for those of you who need a change of scenery from the office. Don't worry if the temperature drops, there are also plenty of heat lamps!
Sights & Sounds
1. OK, I know this is more of a treat and eat, but it is a "festival", so I'm recommending it. The 7th Annual Latke Festival is this Monday, December 7, 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM "Enjoy Latke creations from talented chefs and restaurants across the city and select the People's Choice Best Latke. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit The Sylvia Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring children and their families to eat well through hands-on experiences on the farm and in the kitchen." Last year's winner was Mae Mae Cafe for their dainty latke topped with whipped creme fraiche, pickled Katchkie Farm ginger and a cardamom apple bake. Yummmmmm!
2. If you'd like some of the Christmas-y feeling with less of the hoards, you should check out the 19th Annual Dana Holiday Lighting at Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, inside Central Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues on December 3, 2015, 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. "Celebrate the season at our 19th Annual Holiday Lighting in Central Park. Meet Santa and friends, watch a live ice carving demonstration, sing carols on the Plaza, and warm up with hot cocoa and cookies. The event concludes with lighting a flotilla of trees on the Harlem Meer."