As the vibrant streets of New York City gear up for the festive season, Christmas decorations play a pivotal role in transforming the city into a winter wonderland. This article dives into the Christmas decorations timetable in NYC, offering a detailed look at when, where, and how to experience the magic of the holiday season in the Big Apple.
The Start of Christmas Season
NYC officially kicks off the Christmas season with:
- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade - on the last Thursday of November.
- The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the same evening, marking the start of the festive season.
❄️ Note: The parade and tree lighting are iconic events, attracting millions of viewers. Plan your visit in advance to secure a spot.
December Decorations in NYC
Here's a breakdown of when NYC's main attractions and neighborhoods become decorated:
Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is set up in mid-November:
- Tree goes up: Mid-November
- Lighting ceremony: Last Thursday of November
- Display ends: First week of January
Window Displays
Department stores like Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman unveil their enchanting window displays:
- Macy’s: Typically early November
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Around the same time, with a light show premiere on the night of the parade.
- Bergdorf Goodman: End of October or start of November
Neighborhoods
NYC neighborhoods come alive with decorations at different times:
- Christmas Villages in Dyker Heights: Early December
- Dyker Heights, Brooklyn: Houses begin to display their extravagant lights
- 5th Avenue: Festive lighting and decorations adorn stores and street poles
Festive Events and Displays
Beyond the iconic tree and windows, here are other events and displays to look forward to:
The Winter Village at Bryant Park
The Winter Village opens:
- Opening: Late October
- Closes: Early March
⛸️ Note: Bryant Park features the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. Get your skates ready!
Central Park’s Conservatory Water
A charming model yacht pond surrounded by holiday lights:
- Lighting: Early December
- Event: New Year’s Eve Children’s Party
The Big Apple’s Outdoor Markets
These seasonal markets open in:
- Union Square Holiday Market: Mid-November to late December
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Mid-November to late December
As the city twinkles, the ambiance of the season is complete with:
Wrapping up the Christmas Season
The Christmas season in NYC begins to fade post-New Year, with:
- Most decorations staying up until Epiphany (January 6th).
- Some festive lights and trees remaining until mid-January.
Visiting NYC during the Christmas season allows you to immerse yourself in a world of festive magic. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden neighborhood decorations, the city provides an unparalleled holiday experience. Embrace the festive cheer, enjoy the shopping, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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, after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, until the first week of January when the decorations start to come down.
Are the Christmas markets in NYC free to enter?
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Yes, most of the holiday markets in NYC, like the one at Union Square and Columbus Circle, are free to enter. However, items for sale and activities within the markets may incur a cost.
Can I skate at the Winter Village at Bryant Park?
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Yes, Bryant Park features the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. You only need to pay for skate rentals or bring your own skates.
