The enchantment of Christmas in New York City is an experience that captivates people from all around the world. During the festive season, NYC transforms into a winter wonderland, where the glittering lights, giant ornaments, and festive decorations create an unparalleled atmosphere. If you're planning to witness the magic of Christmas in NYC this year, 2018, here's a detailed guide on when to visit to see the city at its most festive peak.
The Advent of Christmas Preparations
While the commercial decorations might not start appearing until November, planning for the seasonal festivities kicks off much earlier:
- September-October: Planning and logistics for large-scale displays like Macy’s windows and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
- Early November: The preliminary decorations begin, including setting up the iconic Christmas village at Bryant Park.
The Grand Reveal of Lights
Here’s when you’ll start seeing the lights:
- Early November:
- Dyckman Lights Festival in Inwood on the first Friday.
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden starts its Lightscape event.
- November 14, 2018: Official start of holiday window displays at major department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
- November 28, 2018: The grand lighting ceremony for the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
Peak Holiday Decorations
The city fully embraces its holiday spirit by:
- December 1, 2018: The lighting of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, showcasing some of the most elaborate residential decorations in NYC.
- Early to Mid-December:
- Holiday Markets like the Union Square Holiday Market and Columbus Circle Holiday Market are at their most vibrant.
- The ice skating rinks at Bryant Park and Central Park’s Wollman Rink are fully operational with festive surroundings.
Special Events and Displays
In addition to the lights, NYC hosts numerous special events:
- The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden: Starts on November 17, 2018, with over 150 NYC landmarks recreated in model trains.
- The Nutcracker: Performed by the New York City Ballet from November 23 to December 30, 2018.
- Rockettes Christmas Spectacular: Begins its seasonal run on November 9, 2018.
Timing Your Visit for Peak Experience
To experience NYC’s Christmas magic at its finest, consider:
- Visiting November 14 - December 23, 2018 for the peak festive period. During this time, all major attractions, lights, and markets are fully operational.
- Avoiding the immediate days before Christmas and New Year’s Eve to bypass the crowds and higher accommodation prices.
- The weeks following Christmas can offer a unique experience with fewer crowds, but many events conclude earlier.
💡 Note: Remember to check local event websites for precise dates and times as schedules can shift due to various reasons like weather or unforeseen circumstances.
In summary, NYC’s Christmas transformation begins in November and reaches its zenith by mid-December. Each attraction has its own timeline, so plan your visit to align with your favorite events. While the city starts to sparkle early, the best time to witness the full magic of the season is around mid-December when the decorations are at their peak, and the holiday spirit is infectious throughout the five boroughs.
What is the best time to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights?
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The best time to visit Dyker Heights for the Christmas lights is in early December, after they light up on December 1. The displays remain up until around mid-January, but crowds peak in early December.
Can I visit Rockefeller Center before or after the tree lighting?
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Yes, while the official lighting is on November 28, 2018, you can visit before this date to see the setup, and the tree remains lit through early January for post-holiday viewing.
How long does the holiday market season last in NYC?
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Holiday markets in NYC typically start around late November and continue into the days before Christmas. Some major markets, like Union Square, might extend until the last weekend of December.
Are there any Christmas light tours available?
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Yes, several tours run through NYC during the holiday season, showcasing lights and decorations, including private tours, bus tours, and walking tours. You can often book these through local tour operators or via city websites.
