Christmas in New York City is an enchanting spectacle, capturing the hearts of locals and tourists alike. As the festive season approaches, one of the most anticipated events is the decoration of store windows with magical, holiday-themed displays. If you're planning to visit New York City to witness this spectacle, it's crucial to know when the Christmas windows get decorated in 2019. In this article, we will explore the schedule for some of the most iconic displays, offering you insights to plan your holiday visit to NYC perfectly.
When Do The Christmas Windows Get Decorated?
New York City’s Christmas window decorations are a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. Each major department store along Fifth Avenue and other key shopping districts reveals its festive windows with great fanfare. Here's when you can expect these displays to be unveiled in 2019:
- Lord & Taylor: Traditionally one of the first to reveal its Christmas windows, Lord & Taylor usually unveils its display in mid-November, around the 15th. Although the store closed its physical location in 2019, it's worth looking into any potential holiday events or pop-up locations that might continue this tradition.
- Macy's: Known for its extravagant displays, Macy's typically unveils its windows at the end of November, usually a few days before Thanksgiving. This event often coincides with the start of the holiday shopping season.
- Bergdorf Goodman: This luxury store reveals its windows in late November, often just before or after Thanksgiving, to coincide with Black Friday shopping.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Saks holds its grand unveiling ceremony right before Thanksgiving or the first week of December. In 2019, this could be expected around the last week of November or early December.
- Bloomingdale’s: Generally, Bloomingdale’s follows suit with its window reveal in late November, often aligning with other major retailers.
- Barneys New York: Although Barneys faced some business challenges in 2019, it's likely they would have put up windows for the holiday season if open, typically unveiling them in late November or early December.
Tips for Visiting NYC Christmas Window Displays
Visiting New York City during the Christmas season to see the windows can be an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip:
- Timing is Key: Visit in the evening when the windows are lit, enhancing the magical effect of the displays.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekends can be extremely crowded, so consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the hustle and bustle.
- Weather: Be prepared for cold weather; dressing warmly will make your walk more enjoyable.
- Photography: Bring a camera or your phone to capture the magic, but be aware of other pedestrians.
- Stay Nearby: If possible, staying at a hotel close to Fifth Avenue will give you easy access to the displays at any time of day.
What to Expect at Each Display
Each store window display in NYC offers something unique:
- Lord & Taylor: Even without a physical store, Lord & Taylor's decorations are often reminisced for their animation and storytelling, making for a memorable experience.
- Macy's: Known for large, intricate mechanical displays with intricate themes, Macy's windows are a must-see.
- Bergdorf Goodman: Offers high-end, avant-garde displays, often with elements of surprise and interactive features.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Their windows often feature a light show projected onto the facade, creating a truly spectacular sight.
- Bloomingdale’s: Focuses on playful themes, often with unique interpretations of classic Christmas tales.
- Barneys New York: Known for innovative design, their windows might push the boundaries of traditional holiday decor.
Note on Dates and Times
It’s important to check the actual dates for 2019 as they might vary slightly:
🔔 Note: Always check the official websites or social media pages of the stores for the exact dates of window reveals to plan your visit accordingly. Traffic, public transport, or special events might also impact the timing.
New York City at Christmas time is an experience like no other, with each window display offering a slice of holiday magic. From the detailed craftsmanship of Lord & Taylor to the avant-garde scenes at Barneys, your visit during this season will be filled with wonder and joy. Planning your trip around these unveiling dates will ensure you don't miss out on the magical moments when NYC transforms into a winter wonderland.
What are some other holiday events to experience in NYC?
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During the Christmas season, NYC hosts numerous events like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting, holiday markets like Bryant Park’s Winter Village, skating at Central Park, and the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square.
Are there any free events to enjoy during Christmas in NYC?
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Yes, you can enjoy window shopping, the free light shows at Saks Fifth Avenue, and the public tree-lighting ceremonies in neighborhoods like Dyker Heights for some spectacular light displays.
Can I still enjoy the Christmas displays if I visit in January?
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Yes, most holiday displays stay up through New Year’s Day or even until the Epiphany on January 6th, but check individual store policies for the exact removal dates.
What are the peak times to visit the window displays?
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The peak times are usually in the evening, particularly after 6 PM, and during weekends, when foot traffic is at its highest.
