New York City transforms into a magical winter wonderland each Christmas season, with preparations starting months in advance. This preparation not only caters to the local residents but also attracts millions of tourists from around the globe, making the city's festive decorations a landmark event. Here are five detailed ways NYC gets ready for Christmas in 2013:
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The towering icon of Christmas in New York is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. The selection and preparation for this tree begin as early as October:
- Selection: The tree, usually a Norway Spruce, is chosen from among many submissions sent in by individuals or companies who are willing to donate their trees. The tree must be at least 65 feet tall and have a full shape.
- Transport: The chosen tree is then transported to Manhattan with much fanfare, usually by a flatbed truck or a special carriage during daytime parades or nighttime ceremonies.
- Installation: Upon arrival, the tree is hoisted into place with a ceremony that includes live music and a significant number of spectators.
- Decoration: The tree is decorated with over 25,000 multi-colored LED lights, carefully strung to cover the entire tree. Approximately 5 miles of lights and wires are used, with a Swarovski crystal star topping it off, lighting up the night sky.
🚨 Note: The tree stays lit from late November to the second week of January, offering numerous photo opportunities.
Holiday Window Displays
New York’s department stores are renowned for their extravagant window displays that tell festive stories through animation, light, and props:
- Preparation: Months before Christmas, store designers and window artists begin crafting elaborate scenes. The preparation involves intricate mechanical work, detailed painting, and fine art setups.
- Themes: Each year features different themes, often with moving parts, life-like animals, and famous characters to captivate onlookers of all ages.
- Unveiling: There’s usually an event for the first unveiling, which includes performances, music, and special guests, creating a media buzz.
🎨 Note: Visiting these window displays has become a traditional activity for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique visual feast.
Lighting of the Christmas Lights on Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue, the heart of NYC’s shopping district, is illuminated with festive lights and decorations:
- Strand Selection: Over a million LED lights are selected, which are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
- Installation: Crews work around the clock, stringing lights along trees, buildings, and pedestrian areas.
- Ceremony: The official lighting ceremony often features celebrities and live performances, turning on all the lights in a synchronized event.
Santa Con
Santa Con, or Santarchy, is a unique and somewhat controversial Christmas tradition:
- History: Started in San Francisco, this event has grown significantly in NYC since its inception.
- Event Preparation: The day’s route is planned, charity collections are organized, and themed bars are prepared for the influx of Santas.
- Participation: Thousands dress up as Santa or other Christmas characters to parade through the city, engaging in pub crawls and charitable donations.
- Management: Despite its festive nature, the event requires significant police and volunteer coordination to manage crowds and ensure safety.
Christmas Markets
New York hosts several Christmas markets, turning city streets into shopping havens:
- Bryant Park Winter Village: Known for its charming ice skating rink, this market features over 170 merchants selling unique gifts and festive foods.
- Union Square Holiday Market: Located in the vibrant Union Square, it offers a mix of handcrafted items, local crafts, and international treats.
- Columbus Circle Market: At the foot of Central Park, this market is perfect for a day of shopping followed by a stroll through the park.
🌲 Note: These markets not only provide shopping opportunities but also create a festive atmosphere with live music, food stalls, and often hot chocolate stands.
To end, New York City's Christmas preparations in 2013 were a testament to the city's dedication to creating magical experiences. From the meticulously chosen Rockefeller Center tree to the enchanting window displays, the lighting of Fifth Avenue, the quirky Santa Con, to the bustling Christmas markets, each aspect highlights the city's commitment to celebrating the holiday in style. This festive spirit not only brings joy to New Yorkers but also attracts visitors from around the world, making NYC a vibrant hub of holiday cheer.
How is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree chosen?
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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is chosen from submissions received from individuals or companies who wish to donate their trees. The tree must meet specific criteria, like being at least 65 feet tall, having a full shape, and being within a certain distance from Manhattan for easy transport.
What makes the holiday window displays special?
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Holiday window displays in NYC are special because they are created by top artists and designers who craft intricate, animated, and life-like scenes to enchant viewers of all ages. The effort and creativity put into these displays are unique, often incorporating technology, light, and storytelling to convey a festive narrative.
Can you visit the Christmas markets on weekdays?
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Yes, most Christmas markets in New York are open every day throughout the holiday season, including weekdays, allowing visitors to enjoy shopping and festive activities even on busy workdays.
Is Santa Con just about drinking?
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While Santa Con does involve pub crawls and a significant amount of holiday cheer, it also has a strong charitable component. Participants often collect and donate toys, clothes, and funds to various charities, making it a blend of fun and philanthropy.
What time does the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting happen?
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The official tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center occurs in late November. The actual lighting usually happens in the early evening to maximize visibility for attendees and TV viewers, often coinciding with the beginning of the festive season.
