The twinkling lights, the bustling shopping districts, the chill in the air—New York City (NYC) transforms in a unique way when Christmas nears. Each year, as the calendar flips to November and December, NYC residents and tourists alike look for those initial signals that the festive season is upon us. Here are five early signs that NYC is all geared up for the 2016 Christmas season:
1. Holiday Window Displays at Macy’s and Saks
The department store windows of NYC become canvases for holiday magic. Notably, Macy’s on 34th Street and Saks Fifth Avenue unveil their window displays post-Thanksgiving. These displays are not mere decorations; they are elaborate storytelling scenes with animated figures, lighting effects, and themes that change annually:
- Macy’s often includes a homage to the classic movie “Miracle on 34th Street.”
- Saks offers an enchanting blend of fashion and fantasy.
🎨 Note: Taking a stroll down these store fronts is as traditional as ice skating at the Rockefeller Center.
2. The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lights Up
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is an iconic event signaling the start of the holiday season. Here’s what to expect:
- The tree, typically a Norway Spruce, is adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and a star or snowflake topper.
- The lighting ceremony features live performances, and the tree remains illuminated through January.
🌟 Note: The lighting ceremony draws massive crowds, so arrive early or plan to watch it online if you’re visiting.
3. The Streets of Dyker Heights Come Alive with Lights
In Brooklyn, Dyker Heights is famous for its residents’ commitment to Christmas lights. Streets like 84th Street become a wonderland of:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Giant Santas | Some of the largest inflatable Santas in NYC. |
| Lighted Houses | Houses fully covered in lights, some even offering free hot chocolate. |
| Walk-through Lights | Neighborhood paths lit up for an enchanting walk. |
💡 Note: Visiting Dyker Heights is like stepping into a different era of Christmas celebration.
4. Bryant Park Winter Village Opens
The Bryant Park Winter Village is a clear sign that Christmas is coming:
- It offers shopping from various vendors in miniature wooden huts.
- Skating at The Rink presented by Citi.
- A lodge to warm up and enjoy seasonal treats.
5. The Santa Con Parade
While controversial, the Santa Con Bar Crawl is undeniably a Christmas sign. Held on the first Saturday in December, this event:
- Draws thousands of people in Santa outfits, participating in a citywide crawl.
- Creates a festive, if sometimes chaotic, atmosphere with public transportation.
To summarize, New York City during the Christmas season is a spectacle like no other. From the meticulously designed window displays of Macy's and Saks to the towering Rockefeller Center tree, the lights of Dyker Heights, the Bryant Park Winter Village, and the quirky charm of Santa Con, NYC has a way of sparking holiday joy in every corner. Each of these signs tells us that Christmas 2016 is ready to fill the city with warmth, cheer, and an endless array of festive activities.
What’s the significance of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
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The parade is a time-honored tradition that ushers in the holiday season, featuring floats, balloons, and Santa Claus making his grand entrance to kick off the Christmas shopping period.
Are there any Christmas markets in NYC besides Bryant Park?
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Yes, besides Bryant Park, Union Square Holiday Market, Columbus Circle Holiday Market, and Grand Central Terminal’s Holiday Fair are other notable Christmas markets in NYC.
What are some lesser-known spots to see Christmas lights in NYC?
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Neighborhoods like Red Hook, Carroll Gardens, and Park Slope in Brooklyn, along with neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, also have impressive home displays.
How do locals typically celebrate Christmas in NYC?
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New Yorkers often celebrate by attending tree lighting ceremonies, visiting Christmas markets, ice skating, attending holiday shows, decorating their homes, and watching traditional holiday movies.
