It has always been inconsequential. The parking garage which we typically set as a base for downtown Boston walking jaunts is planted near an open air farmer’s market. Haymarket.

It has been described in tourist facing descriptions as “historic” and “can’t miss”. For me, it has always been the maze I push through on my way to better spots.

But over the weekend, we stopped, strolled, even bought. I noticed the people, the colors, smelled the produce, felt the liveliness, heard the buzzing of barking merchants…

How have I, a photographer and observer at heart, never stood in this spot and simply watched?

We live, we learn.

I was struck by how the city was so crowded, so alive on a cold December evening. Perhaps it was because Christmas was in the air.

More images from the night to follow.