I am a huge fan of Christmas. The lights, the music, the food, the cheer, and the time spent with friends and family. I am also a huge fan of tradition. Since we live just half an hour outside of New York City, every year we are sure to visit during Christmastime and spend a day there. If you have never experienced Christmas in New York City, here is your sign to make the trip!
When we first arrive in the bustling city, we grab hot cocoas to stay warm as we wander the streets. Not to be cliché, but there is absolutely some kind of magic in the air around Christmastime. Twinkling lights line every street, people walk by with gifts in hand for loved ones, and Christmas music spills out of stores. Strangers offer soft smiles, and spirits are high. The first thing we like to do, of course, is visit Rockefeller Center. Now, it is always jam-packed with people, but fighting through the crowd is worth it once your eyes land on the massive Christmas tree, adorned with lights and a beautiful star. We like to watch people ice skate in the rink, right below the tree. Rockefeller Center is truly a world of its own, and an essential spot to hit when you are visiting the city during the holiday season.
After we walk a little way away from Rockefeller Center, we find ourselves on Fifth Avenue, a very notable street in the city. Saks Fifth Avenue is a department store and a luxury one at that. But it is not the store itself that we look to visit, but the outside. The department store sets up incredible window displays. High fashion is combined with themes of Christmas to make
fascinating displays that we like to slowly walk by and admire. The real show, however, is the front of the building. People line the streets and crane their necks to look up at the face of the massive edifice and wait for the light show to begin. With music, storytelling, and technology that improves every year, the light show blows people away, and without a doubt, is my favorite part of Christmas in the city.
Sometimes, if we plan well enough in advance and have the time, we aim to see a show of some sort. I highly recommend seeing The Nutcracker ballet. Many dance companies choose to present this ballet during this time of year, and it is an absolutely beautiful production. My personal favorite Christmas “show,” however, has to be the Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes. The energy and joy the dancers exude on stage coupled with their precision and extreme skill makes for a captivating show that gets everyone in the audience excited for Christmas day.
Christmas is a magical time of year, but the season certainly flies by. Make the absolute most of it by practicing traditions young and old, and spending quality time with friends and family. If you would like to try something new, visit the city for a day full of activities, cheer, and Christmas spirit!