As the holiday season approaches, New York City transforms into a magical winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and Christmas markets that would enchant anyone visiting. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the early Christmas spirit, here are five of the best spots in NYC where you can catch that holiday magic early.
The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building might not be the first place you think of for early Christmas decor, but it certainly starts the festive season in style. From mid-November, the iconic structure is adorned with a special holiday light show, and its observation deck gets decorated with a small but charming Christmas tree and other festive trimmings.
Key Features:
- Holiday light show projected onto the building.
- A uniquely NYC decorated observation deck.
- Great view of the city’s holiday lights.
🌟 Note: Tickets to the observation deck often sell out quickly, so plan your visit early.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is the epitome of Christmas in New York City. The famous Christmas tree, erected in mid-November, marks the unofficial start of the holiday season. The tree, often a Norway Spruce, stands over 70 feet tall, adorned with thousands of lights and topped with a brilliant star. Surrounded by glittering lights and festive decorations, the ice-skating rink below adds to the winter wonderland ambiance.
Attractions:
- The iconic Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
- Skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center.
- Radio City Music Hall’s “Christmas Spectacular” show featuring the Rockettes.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park is transformed into a winter village from late October. It’s where early holiday revelers can find joy with its festive market, ice-skating rink, and light decorations. The Bank of America Winter Village provides a cozy, charming atmosphere with small shops, food stalls, and unique holiday gifts, making it a perfect early Christmas spot.
Highlights:
- One of the largest free-admission ice-skating rinks in the city.
- Holiday shopping at the Bryant Park Winter Village market.
- Beautiful light displays throughout the park.
Dyker Heights in Brooklyn
Located in Brooklyn, Dyker Heights is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations. Starting around Thanksgiving, residents deck out their homes with spectacular displays of lights, inflatable Santas, and life-size nativity scenes. It’s a neighborhood tradition that has been going on for decades, attracting thousands of visitors each year to walk through its streets and marvel at the lights.
Unique Aspects:
- Amateur light displays that are genuinely impressive.
- Community involvement in festive decorations.
- A more intimate holiday experience compared to larger public venues.
The New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) in The Bronx is renowned for its Holiday Train Show. This event, which often begins by mid-November, features model trains that wind through enchanting displays of famous New York landmarks made from natural plant materials. Additionally, the garden is beautifully lit with twinkling holiday lights, making it a perfect early holiday destination.
Special Attractions:
- Elaborate displays of model trains amidst miniature landscapes.
- Holiday-themed light installations and displays.
- A magical winter atmosphere with live music and seasonal activities.
These five spots in NYC provide different experiences of early Christmas magic, each with its unique charm and attractions. Whether you're into the grandeur of the Rockefeller tree or the intimate neighborhood spirit of Dyker Heights, you'll find plenty of festive cheer to kick off the holiday season.
🎄 Note: Weather can affect outdoor holiday displays, so check the weather forecast before you go.
Embarking on a Christmas adventure in NYC can be an enchanting experience filled with lights, activities, and holiday spirit. Whether you prefer the iconic landmarks or the more tucked-away neighborhood gems, there's something for everyone looking to get into the holiday spirit early. Remember, NYC's magic is not just in its decorations but in the energy of the city itself, where every street corner and skyscraper seems to twinkle with the promise of Christmas joy.
When do the Christmas decorations go up in NYC?
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Many of NYC’s holiday decorations begin appearing by mid-November, with events like the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree marking the start of the holiday season.
Is it worth visiting Dyker Heights for Christmas lights?
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Yes, it’s definitely worth visiting! Dyker Heights offers one of the most spectacular neighborhood light displays in the city, creating a unique, intimate holiday experience.
Can I skate at the Bryant Park Winter Village?
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Absolutely, the Bryant Park Winter Village features one of the largest free-admission ice-skating rinks in NYC, open throughout the holiday season.
