The festive spirit of Christmas in New York City is undeniably magical, drawing millions of visitors each year to witness the city's legendary holiday decorations. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the elaborately decorated shop windows, the question on many minds is: when do New York's Christmas decorations start?
The Kickoff: Timing of Christmas Decorations in NYC
While the exact dates can shift slightly year by year, there are several key events and unofficial timelines that mark the beginning of the holiday season in New York:
- Early October: Some retailers and individuals start setting up indoor decorations. This includes:
- Christmas villages in department stores
- Lights and garlands inside shopping centers
- Office buildings and homes with indoor trees and ornaments
- First Week of November: Outdoor decorations begin to appear:
- Lights on street lamps along 5th Avenue
- Street trees draped in festive lights
- Holiday displays in hotel lobbies
- Mid-November: The peak of decorations starts:
- Installation of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- Bryant Park Winter Village setup
- Window displays at Macy's Herald Square
- Lighting of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Arguably the most famous symbol of Christmas in NYC is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Here’s the timeline:
- Early November: The tree is delivered, set in place, and the decoration process begins.
- Last Wednesday in November: Tree lighting ceremony, which officially marks the beginning of the holiday season in New York.
Iconic Shop Windows
Department stores like Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Saks Fifth Avenue are renowned for their enchanting window displays:
- Post-Thanksgiving: Windows are unveiled to eager crowds:
- Macy's starts with a parade theme, often unveiling their windows the day after Thanksgiving.
- Saks Fifth Avenue unveils a light show in their window, synchronizing with music.
- Bloomingdale's takes a more interactive approach, incorporating technology into their displays.
Neighborhood Decorations
Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is famous for its grand, over-the-top Christmas light displays:
- Mid-November to Early December: Residents start decorating their homes, with some beginning preparations in October. Peak viewing time is:
- Late November through New Year's Eve.
Christmas Markets
NYC's Christmas markets add to the festive atmosphere:
- Bryant Park Winter Village: Opens in late October, with full holiday decor by mid-November.
- Union Square Holiday Market: Starts in mid-November.
Public Celebrations and Events
The city hosts numerous public events that signal the start of the Christmas season:
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Begins performances in mid-November.
- Santa Claus’ Arrival at Macy’s: Marked by Thanksgiving Day Parade.
🎄 Note: While some stores might already have Christmas sections as early as late September, outdoor displays and major events don't occur until November.
In summary, New York's Christmas decorations start as early as October for some indoor setups, with more widespread decorations appearing from November onwards. The city truly comes alive for the holidays in mid to late November, offering a spectacle that captivates locals and tourists alike. From the twinkling lights on famous trees to the detailed shop windows, the spirit of Christmas in NYC begins its magical transformation well before December 1st.
How Early Can You See Christmas Decorations in NYC?
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You can start seeing some Christmas decorations in NYC as early as late September to early October in certain stores, with outdoor decorations appearing from November onwards.
What Are Some Must-See Christmas Displays in NYC?
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Some must-see Christmas displays include the Rockefeller Center Tree, Macy’s window displays, Saks Fifth Avenue’s light show, and the grand decorations in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.
Do NYC Christmas Decorations Stay Up After Christmas?
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Most public and large-scale decorations remain up until after New Year’s Day or the Escape to NYE Ball Drop. However, individual neighborhoods and homes might keep their lights up for some time after.
