NYC In Focus

Bryant Park’s beloved Winter Village experienced an unexpected tragedy today when a fire erupted at approximately 9:20 a.m. in one of the market’s kiosks. The flames consumed a 6-by-40-foot kiosk that housed four food-related businesses, sending heavy plumes of smoke into the crisp winter air. By the time the fire was brought under control at around 10 a.m., significant damage had already been done.

Four businesses within the affected kiosk were completely destroyed, while a fifth store nearby had to shutter due to fire damage that compromised one of its walls. Additionally, the intense heat partially melted the awning over the park’s iconic ice rink. The quick response from the FDNY, led by Battalion Chief Joe Castellano, prevented further destruction. “There was slight damage to the adjacent kiosk, and some heat impingement on the roof of the ice-skating rink, but no real fire spread,” Castellano assured.

Despite the morning’s chaos, there were no reported injuries. Bryant Park officials quickly worked to restore operations. By midday, The Rink and The Lodge reopened, and most of the unaffected holiday shops resumed business. However, the vendors impacted by the fire face the challenge of losing one of the busiest shopping weeks of the season.

Photo credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus.

Photo credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus.

Photo credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus.

Photo credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus.

Photo credit: Howard Weiss / NYC In Focus.

Impact on Vendors:

Mario Vivas, owner of Criollas Empanadas, was one of the affected vendors. Despite his store sustaining only partial damage, he expressed the financial toll: “This is a miracle actually because we only got destroyed one of our walls and the fire just stopped right next to us,” he said. Vivas estimates losing up to $50,000 in sales during what is typically the busiest time of year.

Today’s fire was reminiscent of another recent holiday market blaze at Herald Square, which destroyed 18 vendor booths. While the FDNY does not see a connection between the two incidents, the proximity in timing has raised concerns among local business owners.

Bryant Park officials expressed gratitude to the FDNY for their swift action and reiterated their commitment to supporting affected vendors. “The Rink and The Lodge are open, and we expect all unaffected shops to be operational later today,” the park’s spokesperson stated.

Reflections on a Beloved NYC Tradition:

The Winter Village at Bryant Park draws millions of visitors every year with its festive charm, unique vendors, and family-friendly atmosphere. This year’s setback, while unfortunate, showcases the resilience of the city and its people.

Closing Message:

The Winter Village shops remain open until January 5, while the ice rink and other activities continue through March. Despite today’s challenges, Bryant Park retains its holiday spirit, inviting locals and tourists to enjoy this quintessential NYC experience.