Joyeux Noel in NYC

One of my favorite and most gratifying traditions when in New York during the short interval between Thanksgiving and Christmas is visiting the Christmas tree at the Metropolitan Museum (see picture I managed to snap while the hyper-vigilant security guard had his eyes turned--no flash). The "Angel Tree" is exactly the same year after year, and that’s an excellent thing because personally I could never get tired of feasting my eyes on the gorgeous sight. There are dozens and dozens of brightly painted, exquisitely carved antique figurines on the tree and around the base of the tree (terra cotta heads, wooden bodies, according to the Met.'s official book on the subject). Flying about the leaves are angels and cherubs. At the bottom of the tree and in the middle is the Nativity scene; around the rest of the tree's base is a hodgepodge of miniature characters from all walks of life (peasants and Arab traders and royalty) and animals. It is an immensely peaceful experience to be in the wonderful and captivating Christmas tree's presence.

Another favorite expedition that doesn’t fail to get me in a festive mood is attending the holiday markets. These fairs are scattered around the city — Bryant Park, Union Square, Columbus Circle, and Grand Central Holiday Fair in Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central Terminal — although I prefer Union Square’s and Bryant Park’s colorful booths because of their better selection of wares and their proximity to my residence.

The high-quality holiday markets in NY offer items not found in stores; oftentimes the vendor is a local artisan (maybe with an online business) who may not even have a business card. But despite lacking a card and a brand name, these artists know how to make unique and tasteful products. (These aren’t boring street fairs, like the summer street fairs in NYC, where it’s the same rubbish from stall to stall and the most exciting deal is cheap socks.)

At the holiday markets, vendors display leather-bound journals and leather bags, hand puppets and marionettes (including marionette hanging tree ornaments), aromatic soaps and lotions, jewelry dress stands, glass-blown tree ornaments, novelty candles (with fruit, flowers, and figurines suspended inside), winter hats, pottery, precious jewel-encrusted belts, paper lanterns, children’s clothing, and lots and lots of jewelry. Oh, and even hanging sculptures of Green Men (my favorite booth this year). Gifts range in price for those with a tight budget to hefty spenders.

Go here for info. on locations, dates, and times for 2008.