As the festive season approaches, New York City transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, towering Christmas trees, and an array of holiday events that attract visitors from all over the world. If you're planning to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of NYC during the holiday season of 2019, here's a comprehensive timeline to help you plan your visit around the key moments when the city becomes the epitome of Christmas charm.
Early Preparations - Late October
Even before October is over, some preparations start:
- October 24: The Bryant Park Winter Village begins setting up for its holiday market.
- Some stores on Fifth Avenue start to decorate their windows in anticipation of the festive period.
November Kicks Off Holiday Festivities
November in NYC is all about getting ready for the big Christmas celebration:
- November 1: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrives, setting the stage for its future illumination.
- November 2: The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden opens, showcasing miniature trains navigating through replicas of NYC landmarks.
- November 5: NYC Winter Lantern Festival begins at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden.
- November 13: Union Square Holiday Market opens.
- November 14: Bryant Park Winter Village officially opens with over 170 unique shops.
- November 22: The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place, signaling the start of the holiday season, with Santa Claus arriving at Macy’s Herald Square to remain there until Christmas Eve.
- November 27: Window Displays light up at iconic stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Henri Bendel, and Barneys New York.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
The pinnacle of the holiday lights celebration:
- November 27: The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Rockefeller Center happens. This 75-year tradition involves ice skaters, holiday music performances, and celebrities attending the event. This year, the tree is an 80-foot tall, 43-foot wide Norway Spruce from Orange County, New York.
December - The Heart of Holiday Season
December brings the full bloom of Christmas decorations:
- December 1: Dyker Heights in Brooklyn becomes known for its extravagant holiday light displays.
- December 1: Dylans Candy Bar hosts their “Sweet Holiday Celebration” with festive treats.
- December 5-6: The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park hosts special events like a Santa’s visit.
- December 6: Saks Fifth Avenue lights up its facade with a spectacular display known as the Saks Light Show.
- December 7-8: Holiday Train Show VIP Event at the New York Botanical Garden.
- December 7: The iconic Big Apple Circus gets a holiday spin in Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park.
- December 8: New York’s Hallelujah Chorus at Macy’s creates an uplifting musical atmosphere.
- December 10: The Lincoln Square Holiday Celebration takes place, offering music, dance, and a massive toy giveaway.
🎄 Note: Visiting the holiday markets or light displays during peak times can be crowded, so plan your trip early or late in the day to avoid the rush.
As you can see, NYC is steeped in tradition when it comes to holiday decorations. Each street, market, and tree tells a story of holiday cheer, attracting millions who come to experience this spectacle of light, culture, and community.
When should I visit NYC to see all the Christmas decorations?
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The best time to visit for Christmas decorations is from late November to the first week of January. All the major lights and events are up and running, and the city is alive with festive spirit.
Are there any free Christmas events in NYC?
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Yes, there are many! Watching the window displays, visiting the Christmas markets, and enjoying the lights at Rockefeller Center and in Dyker Heights are all free experiences.
Do I need to make reservations for holiday markets?
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No, most holiday markets in NYC are free to enter and do not require reservations. However, for ice skating or special events within the markets, you might need to book in advance.
