As the festive season approaches, New York City transforms into a winter wonderland, captivating locals and tourists alike with its enchanting Christmas decorations. From iconic displays to twinkling lights, NYC's holiday decor is eagerly anticipated. But when do these Christmas decorations go up? Here's an exploration of the timeline and highlights of NYC's holiday decorations:
Pre-Holiday Season Preparations
Before the holiday season officially kicks off, NYC begins its preparations in early November:
- Retail Stores: By early November, stores across the city start unveiling their festive window displays, with giants like Macy’s and Bloomingdale's setting the standard with elaborate scenes and eye-catching decor.
- Citywide Street Decorations: NYC & Company, along with various local business improvement districts (BIDs), begin adorning streets with holiday lights and decorations.
🎄 Note: NYC & Company oversees much of the public holiday decor, but private businesses also play a crucial role in the festive atmosphere.
The Big Players
Macy's Herald Square
Macy's is synonymous with Christmas in NYC due to its famous Thanksgiving Day Parade. Here are key dates and facts:
- Window Displays: Typically unveiled the first week of November.
- Store Decor: Inside, the festive spirit is evident by the same time.
Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is perhaps NYC's most iconic event:
- Tree Arrival: The Norway Spruce is delivered around mid-November.
- Lighting Ceremony: The tree lighting happens on the Wednesday following Thanksgiving.
Holiday Market Setup
Various Christmas markets, like Union Square Holiday Market and Bryant Park Winter Village, start setting up in late October to early November:
| Market | Setup Begins | Official Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Union Square Holiday Market | Late October | November 15 |
| Bryant Park Winter Village | Mid-October | October 29 |
| Grand Central Holiday Fair | Late October | November 16 |
❗ Note: Opening dates can vary slightly each year.
Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan hosts some of the city's most famous displays:
- Dyker Heights: This neighborhood's over-the-top displays are usually turned on by December 1st.
- Empire State Building: The building's annual holiday lighting show kicks off on December 1st.
Additional Decorations
Additional decorations and lights illuminate the city:
- The Rink at Rockefeller Center: Skaters glide on ice surrounded by holiday lights starting November 11th.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Their light show, paired with store window displays, typically debuts the Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
- Christmas in New York: From mid-November through January 6th, an array of decorations line the streets and storefronts.
🎁 Note: NYC's holiday decorations are not just confined to commercial establishments. Neighborhoods participate as well, with homes getting into the spirit.
In summary, Christmas decorations in NYC go up progressively from early November, with key milestones including store window displays, the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center, and the setup of holiday markets. These decorations stay in place well into the New Year, making NYC a true winter wonderland throughout the holiday season. From the magical shopping windows to the iconic Christmas tree, the city exudes holiday cheer, inviting everyone to partake in its festive charm.
When does the Rockefeller Center tree go up?
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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrives around mid-November, with the official lighting ceremony occurring the Wednesday following Thanksgiving.
Are holiday markets in NYC open on Christmas Day?
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Most holiday markets are closed on Christmas Day to allow vendors and staff to celebrate the holiday. However, some attractions or outdoor areas might still be accessible for photos or short visits.
How long do the Christmas decorations stay up in NYC?
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Generally, NYC’s Christmas decorations remain in place from early November through early January, with the official ‘take down’ around the first week of January, though some displays might be removed a bit earlier.
