Christmas in New York City is a spectacle like no other. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, holiday markets, and elaborate decorations, making it a magical destination for holiday lovers. However, one of the most fascinating aspects of NYC's Christmas celebrations is the early start of its decorations. Here are five signs that indicate New York kicks off the Christmas season well before December:
1. The Debut of Saks Fifth Avenue’s Light Show
Saks Fifth Avenue is renowned for its dazzling Christmas light show, which typically starts around the Thanksgiving weekend. This year, the lights were turned on even earlier, creating an early sign that the holiday season has arrived in Manhattan.
- When to Expect It: Late November, often around Thanksgiving.
- What You See: A multi-story display on the Fifth Avenue façade, with lights synchronized to festive music.
The spectacle itself is not just a simple light show but a showcase of technology and creativity, using tens of thousands of LED lights and projection mapping to tell a holiday story.
2. Window Displays in Mid-November
Department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Bergdorf Goodman unveil their Christmas window displays in mid-November, a tradition that dates back decades:
- Macy’s: Their windows depict scenes from popular children’s books or holiday tales, often accompanied by animatronics.
- Bergdorf Goodman: Known for its thematic extravaganzas, their windows are veritable art installations.
- Bloomingdale’s: They capture the holiday spirit with a mix of whimsy, fashion, and nostalgia.
These window displays are not just about the visual appeal but also serve as a communal experience, gathering families and tourists alike to enjoy the start of the festive season.
3. Holiday Market Setups
From Union Square to Bryant Park, holiday markets begin setting up in mid to late November, signaling the start of the Christmas season:
- Union Square Holiday Market
- Bryant Park Winter Village
- Columbus Circle Market
These markets not only offer local crafts, unique gifts, and holiday treats but also play an essential role in fostering the Christmas spirit with their cozy, festive atmosphere.
4. Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree
The selection and installation of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree occur much earlier than one might expect:
- Tree Cutting: Typically late November, early December
- Lighting Ceremony: A major event usually happens on a Wednesday evening after Thanksgiving
The Rockefeller Center tree isn’t just an icon of NYC’s Christmas; it’s a symbol that signifies the full embrace of the holiday season by the entire city.
5. Shop Windows and Street Decorations
Even before Thanksgiving, some stores and neighborhoods start dressing up with holiday decor:
- Storefronts adorned with wreaths and garlands
- Street lamps wrapped in red ribbons
- The Empire State Building lit in festive colors
These early decorations set the stage for what’s to come, creating an anticipation for the holiday season that is palpable and all-encompassing.
🎄 Note: While the official Christmas season starts in December, the early setup ensures that tourists and locals alike can enjoy the festive decor for a longer period.
New York City does not wait for the calendar to tell it when to celebrate Christmas. Instead, the city embraces the holiday spirit with a fervor that starts well before December. From the dazzling light shows of Saks Fifth Avenue to the magical holiday markets and the iconic Rockefeller Center tree, NYC decorates early to provide a festive atmosphere that extends the holiday cheer throughout the cold winter months. By doing so, it ensures that visitors and residents have an extended time to revel in the beauty and magic of the season, making NYC truly the city that never sleeps, even during the holidays.
Why does NYC decorate for Christmas so early?
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The early decorations in NYC serve multiple purposes. It’s a tourism strategy to extend the holiday season, providing ample opportunity for tourists to visit and enjoy the decorations. Additionally, it builds excitement and anticipation for the holidays among residents.
Which is the first significant Christmas event in NYC?
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The first major event is often the lighting of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. This ceremony traditionally takes place on the Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
What can visitors do at the holiday markets in NYC?
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Visitors can shop for unique, handcrafted gifts, enjoy festive foods and drinks, experience live music and entertainment, and partake in the overall holiday ambiance that these markets create.
Are there any eco-friendly aspects to NYC’s early Christmas decorations?
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Many NYC holiday displays are moving towards sustainability. For instance, the Saks light show has used energy-efficient LED lights, and some markets now focus on eco-friendly and locally sourced goods to reduce their carbon footprint.
Can the Rockefeller Center tree be seen before the lighting ceremony?
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Yes, the tree is erected in mid-November and can be seen before the official lighting ceremony. It will be lit for a short time every evening before the big event.
