NYC borough’s first ‘winter village’ slammed over ‘insane’ cover charge: ‘NYers know when they’re being played’
Brooklyn’s new winter festival, modeled after the popular holiday markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, has sparked backlash after organizers announced an entrance fee. The Williamsburg Winter Village — opening on Dec. 5 at the BK Backyard Bar — will showcase food vendors, holiday stalls, and interactive pop‑up events, but unlike the free‑to‑enter Manhattan venues, admission costs almost $12.
A TikTok user slammed the charge, writing, “Why are [we] paying to get into it to spend even more money inside when there are plenty of other ‘winter villages’ that you don’t have to pay for,” and added, “Cute idea but pass.” Another commenter vented, “Please don’t have insane tourist-only carnival prices. Tourists will pay anything, but New Yorkers know when they’re being played.”
The backlash focused on food influencer Rachel Brotman, better known online as The Carboholic, and other organizers—including travel site Bucket Listers and influencer agency Nue Mvmnt. The event will kick off on Dec. 5 and boasts corporate sponsors such as Coca‑Cola and the Kahlua × Dunkin’ partnership. High‑end vendors include Breads Bakery, pastry chef Daniel Colonel, Gnoccheria, and City Bakery’s The Color of Chocolate by Maury Rubin.
Some viewers pointed out that the venue actually sits in Greenpoint, not Williamsburg, a location above McCarren Park. Greenpoint resident Madeline Pajerowski, 31, told the Post, “I guess for a certain demographic of people, it’s cool, but I don’t think it’s cool… [The neighborhood] has been cool in its own way, but now it has this mass appeal because of influencer culture.” She added, “Twelve dollars is just an absolutely outrageous amount of money to just go do a thing if that thing is to spend more money.”
Another local, 25‑year‑old Allison, called the entry fee “yet another ridiculous charge added to the typically overpriced hot cocoa and trinkets found at any holiday market.” She said, “I’m not paying 12 bucks to walk around. I don’t think they should charge. You’re already robbing us.” Williamsburg resident Trishiet Ray quipped, “We can just take the L train to Union Square, and that one is free.”
The organisers have not yet responded to the Post’s request for comment.
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