The holiday season in New York City is magical, and part of that magic comes from the dazzling Christmas decorations that adorn the city. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are five must-see spots for Christmas decorations in 2022 that promise to fill your heart with holiday cheer.
1. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree isn’t just a symbol of New York City’s festive spirit; it’s a cultural landmark. Each year, this 80+ foot tall Norway spruce is adorned with over 50,000 LED lights, a massive star, and surrounded by a festive ice-skating rink:
- Lighting Ceremony: Usually in early December, with much fanfare and television coverage.
- Ice Skating: After the tree lighting, the rink opens for skating, a must-do holiday activity.
- Surrounding Decorations: The tree isn’t the only attraction; the entire plaza is festively decorated.
🎄 Note: The tree remains up until early January, but avoid visiting just before or after Christmas when crowds peak.
2. Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park transforms into a winter wonderland with:
- The Rink: A large outdoor ice-skating rink free for those with their own skates.
- Holiday Shops: Over 180 festive kiosks selling unique gifts, crafts, and holiday-themed food.
- Tree and Lights: A large Christmas tree and stunning light installations throughout the park.
3. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
In Brooklyn, Dyker Heights becomes a spectacle of light during the Christmas season:
- Extravagant Displays: Residents compete to outdo each other with decorations.
- Popular Streets: 11th, 12th, and 13th Avenues between 83rd and 86th Streets are hotspots.
- Traffic Management: Expect road closures and plan your visit accordingly.
4. Saks Fifth Avenue’s Light Show
Every year, Saks Fifth Avenue windows are transformed into:
- Light Show: A spectacular show featuring lights, sound, and projections on the building’s facade.
- Themed Displays: Each window tells a story or presents a theme related to the holidays.
💡 Note: This event attracts crowds, so visit during less crowded times if possible.
5. Lord & Taylor Holiday Windows
Even though Lord & Taylor has relocated, their historic holiday window displays continue in spirit:
- Storybook Windows: Traditional festive scenes often featuring popular books or tales.
- Animatronics: Gentle moving figures that delight visitors, young and old.
Each of these locations offers a unique take on holiday decorations, making your visit to NYC during the Christmas season unforgettable. Remember, while these spots are beautiful and Instagram-worthy, they also offer a sense of community and the spirit of the holidays, something that cannot be captured by pictures alone.
When is the best time to visit NYC for Christmas decorations?
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Early December is ideal for experiencing the tree-lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center, but anytime from late November to just before New Year’s Eve will offer vibrant holiday sights.
Are there any free events or activities related to Christmas decorations?
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Yes, many events are free, including viewing the window displays at major stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, skating at Bryant Park (if you have your own skates), and walking through Dyker Heights’ illuminated streets.
How crowded do these spots get?
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Expect crowds, especially closer to Christmas. Visiting in the morning or on weekdays can help avoid some of the peak congestion.
Is photography allowed at these locations?
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Photography is generally encouraged, especially at public displays like the Rockefeller tree or Saks Fifth Avenue light show. Just be respectful of crowds and any posted signage about tripod usage.
