Out & About: Central Park Edition

There’s No Place Like HOME for the Holidays

Holiday time is upon us and there is an abundance of joyful and festive things to do just a hop, skip, and a jump from Long Island. Central Park is the crown jewel of Manhattan, and during December it hosts a myriad of wonderful activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Wollman Rink located at the south end of the park at 63rd street is open from October to March. Skate and locker rentals are available 7 days a week including holidays. Click on wollmanrinknyc.com for hours and ticket prices.

Fancy a bit of shopping? In December, the northeast corner of Columbus Circle turns into a lively winter market. It features aisles of gifts and jewelry as well as foods from local artisans. The market has been a tradition for more than a decade and is open daily throughout December. Hours are Monday to Saturday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

It’s always a good time to visit the Central Park Zoo! The famous Delacorte Clock near the Zoo at 68th street rings seasonal chimes and nursery rhymes every half hour. Built in 1965, it features a band of animals including monkeys, a penguin, a hippo, and a kangaroo. In December, these charming sculptures play holiday favorites such as “Deck the Halls,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Chanukah, Oh Chanukah!”

Last but not least, the beautiful and historic Tavern on the Green Restaurant at 68th Street and Central Park West will host their annual tree lighting on Monday, December 2nd. It’s a community event with Christmas carols and warm cookies—a great way to kick off the holiday season and enjoy a cozy evening at the restaurant. Tavern on the Green will also be hosting Holiday Brunches every Saturday and Sunday through December 29th. The restaurant will be fully decorated for the holidays starting the Friday after Thanksgiving, with the festive atmosphere continuing through the first week of January.

For information and reservations go to tavernonthegreen.com.

So come… spend a day celebrating this joyful and lively season in the “Backyard of New York City.” Happy Holidays to all!