Christmastime in New York City is iconic and a timeless tradition. From ice skating in Central Park, viewing window displays along 5th Avenue or watching the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, there is no greater feeling of magic in the air. Every year the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade ends with Santa coming to a stop in front of the department store, marking the beginning of the season in the Big Apple.
Once Thanksgiving is over, the holiday officially kicks off with the annual Christmas Tree lighting which occurs the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. This year was the 84th annual ceremony and the 19th annual NBC broadcast of the Christmas in Rockefeller Center TV special. The tree will stay lit and can be visited daily until 9 p.m. through Jan. 7. If you’re local to NYC be sure to attend the ceremony next year, but arrive early as thousands will line the streets near Rockefeller Plaza. Performers this year included Tony Bennett, Sara McLachlan, Dolly Parton, Neil Diamond, Josh Groban, Tori Kelly, the Radio City Rockettes and more.
New York City is truly a sight to see over the holidays, with an illuminated winter wonderland, decked-out Christmas trees, holiday windows and lights, singing Santas on every corner and much more. Even the most tourist-averse New Yorkers admit it is quite spectacular.
At the center of the skyline sits the Empire State Building. During November and December, the building is lit with red and green lights to celebrate the holiday season. The first lit night coincides with the opening night for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
Nothing says Christmas like the Radio City Rockettes. The show-stopping leg kick chorus performs five days a week during the holidays at Radio City Music Hall.
Be sure to stop by the Union Square Holiday Market open yearly from mid-November to Christmas Eve. This is the perfect place to purchase unique handmade gifts.
Stand in front of the various department stores on 5th Avenue and take in not only the gorgeous window displays but the various Christmas lights alongside the building. From Saks Fifth Avenue to Macy’s to Barneys and Bloomingdale’s, these sights are so impressive they might be reason enough to stroll through Midtown.
If you’re trying to stay out of Midtown, take a look at what happens in the boroughs. Visit Dyker Heights in Brooklyn and tour their annual holiday decorations as neighbors compete for the biggest and brightest displays.
Come and explore the timeless traditions the city has to offer.
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