December in NYC during the 2016 holiday season was nothing short of magical. The streets, buildings, and parks of this bustling metropolis turned into a Winter Wonderland, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. This blog post explores the enchanting journey of NYC's Christmas decorations through the month, creating a festive timeline of the most memorable moments in the city.
November 2016: Setting the Stage
As November rolled in, New York City began its festive metamorphosis. The turning leaves gave way to holiday decor:
- Street vendors appeared with an array of festive goods.
- Retailers began to adorn their windows with holiday scenes.
- The lighting of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade route.
Lighting Ceremonies: Illuminating New York City
The city was awash with light as major landmarks and streets were illuminated:
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| New York Botanical Garden Train Show | November 19 - January 16 | Bronx |
| Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting | November 30 | Midtown Manhattan |
| Holiday Lights at the New York Aquarium | November 25 - January 3 | Coney Island |
December 1 - 7: The Festivities Begin
The first week of December kicked off with events and installations:
- December 1: The holiday window displays at Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman.
- December 4: Union Square Holiday Market opened.
- December 5: Bryant Park Winter Village inaugurated its activities.
🎄 Note: Macy's Herald Square store introduced an interactive "Believe" window display that year, capturing the wonder of childhood Christmas dreams.
December 8 - 14: Mid-Month Festivities
New Yorkers and tourists alike immersed themselves in holiday cheer:
- December 11: The New York Transit Museum ran its annual holiday subway rides.
- December 12: The festive kickoff of the Winter Lantern Festival at Snug Harbor Cultural Center.
- The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, a staple of the season.
December 15 - 21: Peak Holiday Hustle
The city reached its holiday peak with:
- December 16: Fifth Avenue was alight with holiday window installations.
- December 18: The lighting of the Gingerbread Extravaganza at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
- Numerous Christmas markets buzzed with activity.
December 22 - 25: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
As Christmas Eve approached, the city’s energy crescendoed:
- December 24: A Christmas Eve carol service at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
- December 25: Christmas Day celebrations with families and tourists.
- The New York Botanical Garden put on a special Christmas Day performance of the “Holiday Train Show.”
Closing Notes: A Month of Joy
The final days of December 2016 saw the city in its most splendid, holiday-decorated state. The collective effort of residents, businesses, and organizations created a festive atmosphere that will be remembered for years to come. The spirit of Christmas lived not just in the decorations but in the hearts of those who made the time to enjoy the simple joy of the season.
Over the course of the month, NYC's iconic streets and landmarks transformed into a living tableau of Christmas cheer. Each day brought new experiences, from the lighting ceremonies to the interactive window displays, to the markets and lantern festivals. It was a vivid reminder that in a city of millions, the shared love for Christmas decorations brings a sense of community and togetherness, culminating in a celebration that transcends borders and cultures.
What are the most popular holiday markets in NYC?
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The most popular holiday markets in NYC include Bryant Park Winter Village, Union Square Holiday Market, and Columbus Circle Holiday Market, offering unique gifts, food, and festive atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit NYC for Christmas decorations?
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The best time to visit NYC for Christmas decorations is from late November through the first few days of January, with early December being particularly enchanting as the city lights up.
What landmarks have special Christmas light displays?
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Landmarks like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Brooklyn Botanic Garden all feature special light displays during the holiday season.
