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This past weekend, Brooklyn launched its inaugural winter village, named the Williamsburg Winter Village. However, the event has not received positive feedback. Guests were required to pay an entry fee, which many described as excessive for a shopping experience that featured only a limited number of vendors.
Situated at BK Backyard Bar, the Williamsburg Winter Village mirrors the popular holiday markets in Manhattan, such as those at Bryant Park and Union Square. Unlike these free markets, Brooklyn’s version charges up to $12 for entry, leaving many attendees feeling unsatisfied.
Initial impressions and vendor variety
Upon entering, visitors encountered a modest selection of just 17 vendors, prompting early complaints about the lack of activities and attractions. Gabe, a 27-year-old attendee, expressed his disappointment: “There’s just not enough to do. You try everything and you’re out in an hour.” His girlfriend, Ava, noted they would only consider a return visit if the entry fee were significantly reduced.
Comparative costs and offerings
Many attendees shared similar concerns regarding the entry fee. Aparna Nagaraj, a 38-year-old software engineer, stated that paying $10 felt excessive given the market’s size. Local resident Trishiet Ray humorously remarked on the convenience of taking the subway to free markets in Union Square instead.
The market’s first day attracted approximately 600 visitors, but attendance surged to around 3,000 on Saturday. Jeremy Seaman, the producer of the Williamsburg Winter Village, explained that the ticketing system aimed to manage crowd sizes and enhance the visitor experience. “We don’t want there to be long lines and have it be shoulder to shoulder,” he stated.
Pricing and vendor quality
Despite initial criticisms, Seaman defended the entry fee, asserting it enables vendors to offer lower prices than their Manhattan counterparts. He noted that a hot chocolate at the Brooklyn market costs $7, while similar items in busier areas could be priced at $15. “You’re paying a small fee to get in the door, but then you end up saving money on all the items you purchase here,” he emphasized.
Some visitors appreciated the smaller, more intimate setting. Jess Torgovnik, a mental health counselor from Manhattan, found the atmosphere refreshing compared to the chaotic feel of larger holiday markets. She described the decorations as whimsical and charming, highlighting that the vendor prices were reasonable.
Corporate sponsorship and vendor lineup
The Williamsburg Winter Village is backed by a coalition of sponsors, including the influencer agency Nue Mvmnt and the travel site Bucket Listers, along with food influencer “The Carboholic.” Despite facing criticism over the entry fee, the market features popular vendors like Breads Bakery and pastry chef Daniel Colonel.
While the Williamsburg Winter Village seeks to offer a unique holiday experience, it faces significant challenges regarding visitor satisfaction and perceived value. Many attendees have expressed a desire for a lower entry fee or a more diverse selection of offerings, leaving the future of this winter market uncertain.