As the air gets crisp and the city streets sparkle with snow, New York City turns into a winter wonderland. It charms both visitors and locals. The holidays here are magical, with department stores and landmarks showing off their festive best1.
The spirit of the season is everywhere as you walk the streets. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a tradition for 96 years, starts the holiday fun with floats, balloons, and shows1. Walking around, the lights and window displays at places like Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue are mesmerizing. They invite you into a world of magic and wonder.
Key Takeaways
- New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season
- The city’s renowned department stores and iconic landmarks create captivating holiday displays
- The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a long-standing tradition, kicks off the holiday season
- Legendary window displays at stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue draw in visitors
- The holiday magic in New York City makes it a must-visit destination for the festive season
Captivating Christmas Window Displays
New York City’s Christmas window displays are a beloved tradition. They captivate millions of visitors each year. From Macy’s to Bergdorf Goodman, these displays mesmerize with their holiday themes and detail2.
Macy’s Iconic Holiday Windows
Macy’s is famous for its magical Christmas windows. They draw 10,000 visitors daily during the holiday season2. In 2023, the windows featured Tiptoe the blue reindeer and her friends, making the season come alive2.
Macy’s started this tradition in the early 1870s. It’s a legacy that continues to enchant people3.
Bergdorf Goodman’s Whimsical Wonderland
Bergdorf Goodman’s holiday windows are a spectacle. They feature whimsical and cutting-edge designs. In 2023, the “Isn’t It Brilliant” theme used mirrors, chrome, neon, and crystals for a dazzling display2.
Designing these windows takes a year. It shows the team’s dedication and creativity2.
“The holiday windows on Fifth Avenue are ranked based on creativity, festivity, and elaborateness.”3
As the holiday season nears, New York City’s window displays delight visitors worldwide. They make the city a winter wonderland243.
Saks Fifth Avenue’s Dazzling Light Show
Experience the magic of the holidays in New York City with Saks Fifth Avenue’s breathtaking annual light show. This iconic department store turns its facade into a mesmerizing canvas of color and movement. It captivates visitors with a dazzling display of5 700,000 LED lights that light up the building in stunning patterns and hues.
The Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show is a must-see event, running every5 20 minutes (three times an hour) after dark. The5 steel supporting structure for the light show is an impressive 110-feet-high-by-120-feet wide. It provides a grand stage for the captivating performance5. AMA Electric Sign Co. and American Christmas, LLC., are the long-standing partners responsible for creating this breathtaking holiday spectacle.
This year, Saks has partnered with the iconic fashion house Dior to create an unforgettable experience6. The World of Dior pop-up on Saks.com features exclusive products and a new Dior Maison collection. The Saks Fifth Avenue New York flagship boasts the most extensive holiday window display created in collaboration with a brand partner6. Guests can also explore a Christian Dior Parfums pop-up within the store, with holiday offers and services through December 10th.
The Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Lights Show premiered on7 November 21st, 2023 and is scheduled to run until7 January 8th, 20247. The show features over 50,000 LED lights and a musical accompaniment, creating a truly mesmerizing experience for all who visit. Don’t miss this dazzling holiday tradition in the heart of New York City!
Lord & Taylor’s Festive Illuminations
Lord & Taylor, a New York City icon, dazzles visitors with its holiday lights8. The store’s facade shines with thousands of twinkling lights. It’s a magical sight that draws in crowds8.
Holiday Lights Synchronized to Music
The lights at Lord & Taylor dance to holiday tunes, making the experience unforgettable8. This tradition is a highlight of the city’s holiday season. It attracts many who love the festive display8.
The Fifth Avenue store is a holiday wonderland with its turn-of-the-century interiors8. Though some stores have closed, Lord & Taylor keeps its holiday lights alive. It’s a joy for those visiting new york christmas markets and nyc festive decor each year.
“Lord & Taylor’s annual holiday display is a true testament to the enduring spirit of the season, captivating all who witness its magic.”
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Macy’s holiday window display project planning time | Nearly a year9 |
| Macy’s holiday display installation time | 3 weeks9 |
| Macy’s holiday window display professionals involved | Over 2009 |
| Lord & Taylor’s holiday window count | 6 large windows9 |
| Saks Fifth Avenue’s light show frequency | Every 10 minutes after 5 pm9 |
| Rockefeller Center daily foot traffic during the holidays | 500,000 people9 |
FAO Schwarz: A Toy Wonderland
No visit to New York City during the holidays is complete without a trip to FAO Schwarz10. It started in 1862 as the Toy Bazaar in Baltimore. Frederick August Otto Schwarz moved it to New York City in 187010. By 1880, it officially became FAO Schwarz10.
The store’s festive window displays set the stage for the magical experience that awaits inside. As you step through the doors, you’ll be transported to a true toy wonderland
FAO Schwarz is a must-see for families and new york christmas gifts enthusiasts. It offers a truly immersive and unforgettable holiday experience10. In 1985, it became the first U.S. retailer to sell the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)10.
Today, the flagship store at Rockefeller Center spans 20,000 square feet10. It showcases a vast array of new york christmas ornaments and unique holiday-themed merchandise. FAO Schwarz caters to a wide range of customers with its premium offerings11.
“FAO Schwarz is a true toy wonderland, where the magic of the holiday season comes alive in the most enchanting way.”
Whether you’re looking to indulge in a luxurious Swarovski crystal-covered mini-Mercedes for $25,00010 or simply soak in the festive ambiance, FAO Schwarz is a must-visit. It will leave an indelible mark on your holiday experience in New York City.
- Airbnb is giving one lucky family the chance to spend the night at FAO Schwarz in New York City during Christmas. The cost for this experience is just $2512.
- Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, this FAO Schwarz experience is limited to New Yorkers only12.
- Bookings for the FAO Schwarz experience will open on December 15 at 12 noon EST. The sleepover date will be announced soon12.
Whether you’re planning a visit to FAO Schwarz for new york christmas gifts, new york christmas ornaments, or to immerse yourself in the store’s enchanting holiday atmosphere, it’s a surefire way to make your New York City Christmas experience truly magical101112.
christmas in new york store
As the holiday season hits New York City, even top brands join in the fun. Cartier’s Fifth Avenue store turns into a beautifully wrapped gift. Its facade is covered in a stunning holiday display13.
The building’s design is used for a grand holiday decoration. It makes a luxurious and magical sight for everyone. Cartier’s holiday look shows their dedication to the season’s magic and a memorable shopping experience.
Cartier’s display stands out among the city’s holiday scenes. Its decorated façade, with twinkling lights and elegant details, welcomes visitors to a world of luxury and wonder14. It’s perfect for those looking to shop for new york christmas apparel or just enjoy the festive atmosphere. Cartier’s holiday look captures the charm of New York’s Christmas markets.
Make sure to visit Cartier’s flagship store this holiday season in New York City. See the brand’s luxurious take on the season. From the stunning window displays to the elegant decorations, Cartier’s holiday look is a true Christmas magic in New York131415.
Empire State Building’s Holiday Makeover
New York City’s iconic Empire State Building gets a magical makeover every year for the holidays. In 2023, it celebrated the 20th anniversary of “Elf” with a festive look16.
The building’s 86th-floor observatory and Fifth Avenue lobby are filled with holiday cheer. The spire shines in red and green, making it even more special16.
Visitors can see giant snowflakes and 20-ft LED trees in the lobby. Musicians add to the fun, playing at the observatory and around the building16.
The Empire State Building’s holiday makeover is a top spot for holiday fun. It’s a must-see for anyone in New York during the holidays1716.
“The Empire State Building is named America’s favorite building according to a poll by the American Institute of Architects, and its Observatory is ranked as the region’s #1 tourist destination.”16
The Empire State Building’s holiday makeover is a must-see in New York City. It’s full of festive decor and fun events, capturing the holiday spirit16.
| Holiday Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Festive Decor | The building’s 86th-floor observatory and Fifth Avenue lobby are adorned with larger-than-life snowflake installations and 20-ft LED-lit holiday trees16. |
| Lighting | The Empire State Building’s spire is lit in red and green, adding to the holiday ambiance16. |
| Musical Performances | The building hosts a variety of musical performances, including pianists, school choirs, and professional musicians16. |
| Special Lightings | The building features special tower lightings to celebrate Chanukah, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve16. |
The Empire State Building’s holiday makeover is a must-see in New York City. It’s filled with stunning decor, festive events, and amazing views. It’s a place you can’t miss during the holiday season171618.
Bloomingdale’s Best Holiday Ever
Bloomingdale’s, a famous New York department store, brings holiday magic with its “Best Holiday Ever” theme19. In 2023, the store’s windows were a whimsical wonderland inspired by Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory19. The Carousel @ Bloomingdale’s: Wonka, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, offered unique gifts inspired by the movie19.
Holiday Treats at Serendipity 3
But there’s more to Bloomingdale’s holiday magic than just the windows. Visitors can enjoy famous treats at Serendipity 3 cafe, known for its Frozen Hot Chocolate20. A visit to Bloomingdale’s and Serendipity 3 is a must for a memorable New York City holiday shopping experience20.
The iconic window display at Bloomingdale’s 59th Street flagship was unveiled on November 16, celebrating this year’s theme inspired by Wonka19. Bloomingdale’s offered holiday activations like Candy Café, Santaland, and Breakfast with Santa19. The fragrance department had holiday upgrades, including live music and gift-with-purchase19.
Bloomingdale’s launched a virtual store on November 2, featuring holiday gifting and a Willy Wonka chocolate factory19. The store also partnered with organizations like No Kid Hungry and Child Mind Institute to raise funds and awareness19.
Bloomingdale’s teamed up with Warner Bros. Pictures for their “Best Holiday Ever” theme inspired by the new Wonka movie20. The theme featured oversized candies and chocolates in the windows20. The windows at Bloomingdale’s flagship location on 59th and Lexington were unveiled on November 16th20.
Bergdorf Goodman’s holiday windows, also unveiled on November 16th on 59th and Fifth Avenue, had the theme “Isn’t it Brilliant.”20 Bergdorf Goodman had seven unique windows with special storytelling narratives20. One window featured animals covered in mirror mosaic with monumental roosters20. Another window celebrated knowledge and learning with vintage-inspired signs and flashing lights20. The Bergdorf men’s store across the street had a yeti theme20.
“A trip to Bloomingdale’s and Serendipity 3 during the holiday season is a must for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable New York City experience.”
| Store | Holiday Window Theme | Unveiling Date |
|---|---|---|
| Bloomingdale’s | “Best Holiday Ever” inspired by Wonka | November 16 |
| Bergdorf Goodman | “Isn’t it Brilliant” | November 16 |
Honorable Mentions
New York City has more than just the famous department store window displays and light shows. There are many other holiday attractions and shopping spots worth mentioning21. You can find unique gifts and souvenirs at The Met Store, like items under $25. Pink Olive in the West Village has Taylor Swift merchandise and adorable baby clothes21.
The New York Transit Museum Store in Midtown is a hit with its transit toys and subway maps21. In Chelsea, Artists & Fleas market offers a wide range of art, vintage clothing, and handmade jewelry21. The Strand Bookstore in the East Village has journals, mugs, and totes for book lovers21.
Television fans will love the NBC Store in Midtown, with souvenirs from Friends and The Office21. Fishs Eddy in the Flatiron District is famous for its vintage dishes and home goods21.
New York City is full of small boutiques and specialty shops that add to the holiday cheer22. The Lockwood Shop in Astoria, Queens, sells artisanal candles and blankets21. Posman Books in Chelsea has vibrant souvenirs and NYC-themed items21. The CityStore NYC in the Financial District offers a variety of New York-themed merchandise21.
Looking for the perfect holiday ornament or a cozy winter outfit? New York City has it all for new york christmas markets, new york christmas ornaments, and new york christmas apparel fans212223.
Conclusion
New York City is a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Its famous department stores and landmarks are decked out in festive lights and decorations24. Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman’s window displays are a must-see, as are the light shows at Saks Fifth Avenue and the Empire State Building24.
Visiting New York City’s iconic stores and landmarks is a holiday tradition. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to enjoy the festive atmosphere, it’s a must-do24.
Macy’s Christmas windows attract over 10,000 visitors every day in 202425. The 2024 holiday season’s unveiling is on November 14th25. Macy’s offers a mix of shopping, history, and holiday magic at its windows25.
Macy’s Santaland on the 8th floor requires online reservations up to five days in advance25.
Online shopping has changed how people shop, leading to the closure of some big stores on Fifth Avenue24. But, the Fifth Avenue Association has hired a designer to create holiday window displays for the empty storefronts24. These displays aim to capture the fantasy of New York City in winter24.
These holiday window displays will be on display until January 5. They are sure to enchant both visitors and locals as they experience the magic of christmas in new york store and holiday shopping nyc.
FAQ
What are the most captivating Christmas window displays in New York City?
What is the annual holiday light show at Saks Fifth Avenue?
How does Lord & Taylor celebrate the holidays?
What is the holiday experience like at FAO Schwarz?
How do luxury brands like Cartier celebrate the holidays in New York City?
What is the Empire State Building’s holiday makeover like?
How does Bloomingdale’s celebrate the holidays?
What other holiday attractions and shopping destinations are worth visiting in New York City?
Source Links
- Holiday Magic in New York City – https://www.independentcollection.com/blog/2021/11/01/holiday-magic-in-new-york-city/
- 10 Wonderful Holiday Window Displays in New York City (Local’s Guide) – https://newyorkdearest.com/best-holiday-window-displays-nyc/
- We ranked the best holiday store windows on Fifth Avenue. See the winners. – https://www.businessinsider.com/fifth-avenue-holiday-store-window-displays-ranked
- Bright Lights, Big City: New York City’s Iconic Holiday Displays – https://brooklynslifestyle.com/bright-lights-big-city-new-york-citys-iconic-holiday-displays/
- Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show on Display – https://www.signshop.com/lighting-electric/led-modules/saks-fifth-avenue-holiday-light-show-on-display/
- Saks and Dior Debut “Dior’s Carousel of Dreams at Saks” – https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/saks-and-dior-debut-diors-carousel-of-dreams-at-saks-301994814.html
- The Best NYC Christmas Lights – https://discovernyc.tours/blog/the-best-nyc-christmas-lights/
- Grand Illumination: New York shop windows of Christmas past — AP Photos – https://apimagesblog.com/historical/2023/12/4/grand-illumination-nyc-shop-windows-of-christmas-past
- The City’s Best Holiday Window Displays – https://www.frommers.com/slideshows/848229-christmas-in-new-york-the-city-s-best-holiday-window-displays
- FAO Schwarz Visitor’s Guide | Rockefeller Center NYC – https://freetoursbyfoot.com/fao-schwarz/
- VIP Experiences at FAO Schwarz – https://faoschwarz.com/pages/vip-experiences-at-fao-schwarz?srsltid=AfmBOooZsTE8rCWpY3s7PSrqbU1pjGVFb21MxiJH8fml_tYmKnFoIbIy
- Enjoy a family sleepover and shopping spree in FAO Schwarz – https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/fao-schwarz-airbnb-holiday-experience
- Year Round Christmas Shops – Christmas and City – https://christmasandcity.com/about-us/year-round-shop
- Christmas in New York Store in Times Square (NYC Shopping) – https://discovernyc.tours/christmas-in-new-york-store-in-times-square-nyc-shopping/
- 15 Epic Spots for Christmas Decorations In New York City – https://newyorkdearest.com/christmas-decorations-nyc/
- The Empire State Builiding is the place to be during the holidays – https://trendylatina.com/empire-state-building-is-the-place-to-be-during-the-holidays/
- Five must-see, magical holiday windows in NYC – https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/holiday-windows-in-new-york-city
- A Very Festive NYC Christmas Itinerary for 3 Days – Pictures & Words – https://picturesandwordsblog.com/nyc-christmas-itinerary-3-days/
- BLOOMINGDALE’S KICKS OFF “THE BEST HOLIDAY EVER” CAMPAIGN – https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bloomingdales-kicks-off-the-best-holiday-ever-campaign-301975853.html
- Bergdorf & Bloomingdales Holiday Windows 2023 – Lyssy in the City – https://lyssyinthecity.com/2023/12/07/bergdorf-bloomingdales-holiday-windows-2023/
- Top 15 Gift Shops in New York City (Where to Snag The BEST Souvenirs) – https://newyorkdearest.com/nyc-gift-shops-new-york-city/
- Christmas in New York City Guide: Best Holiday Decor, Hotels and Shows (pt 2) – https://www.coveringbases.com/2019/12/christmas-in-new-york-city-guide-best-holiday-decor-hotels-shows.html
- NYC Christmas Decor Master List – Part One – Lyssy in the City – https://lyssyinthecity.com/2022/12/20/nyc-christmas-decor-master-list-part-one/
- The Origins of Window Shopping in New York City – https://www.mcny.org/story/origins-window-shopping-new-york-city
- Macy’s Christmas Windows in New York: Holiday Season Guide – https://mychristmasinnewyork.com/macys-christmas-windows-in-new-york-holiday-season-guide/