A fire broke out at the Bryant Park holiday market in Midtown Manhattan on Friday morning, destroying several vendor booths and creating significant smoke visible from afar. The New York City Fire Department responded to the incident shortly before 9:30 a.m. and reported that the fire was under control by 10 a.m. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and the fire marshal is currently examining the cause of the blaze.
Known officially as the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, this seasonal market is one of New York’s most popular, attracting approximately four million visitors each year. The market features numerous small kiosks, an ice skating rink, curling, and various food vendors. Despite the fire, most of the market’s shops and the ice rink were able to reopen by noon, with plans for those not impacted by the fire to resume operations later that same day.
This swift response from the fire department allowed for minimal disruption, and the community can take comfort knowing that the holiday spirit will continue at Bryant Park. The resilience of local businesses during this challenging time reflects the strength of New York’s vibrant holiday culture, and the market will remain open to the public through January 5, providing a festive atmosphere and supporting local vendors.
By allowing visitors to return quickly, Bryant Park reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the holiday season bright and cheerful, showcasing the determination of New Yorkers in the face of adversity.