Holiday Decorations, Lights and Cheer
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Holiday Lights
Rockefeller Center is one of New York City’s most popular locations for holiday cheer. The beautiful decorations draw whopping crowds of thousands of people who stop by the center to admire the lights and festivities surrounding the giant Christmas Tree.
New York City Department Stores
The walk down Fifth Avenue in New York City has enough holiday sparkle to take your breath away. The perfectly arranged Christmas windows, which change each year are the perfect stop for shoppers and bypassers alike. Enjoy the windows outside Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and more.
Holiday Lights at Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of the best locations to admire the holiday lights which spread across the ceiling of the terminal at every thirty minute interval. Be sure to also stop by the model train exhibit for an additional festive bonus.
The Bronx Zoo
The Wild Winterland display at the Bronx Zoo has turned into a beautiful daytime scene where families can enjoy watching the animals open their presents and feed the reindeer. There will also be ice carving, story telling and unique zoo decorations.
Celebrate the Holidays at The American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History will be showcasing their beautiful Origami Holiday Tree along with a holiday dinosaurs display that is sure to delight many young visitors. The origami tree tradition has been a part of New York City culture for more than 30 years and continues today with over 500 origami decorations hand crafted by volunteers to teach museum visitors about the divine art of origami.
2010 Radio City Spectacular
(November 5 through December 30, 2010; Radio City Music Hall; 6th Ave. b/w 50th & 51st St.; Tickets: $40-$100; Monday-Saturday from 10a.m.-8p.m. & Sunday from 11a.m.-8p.m.)
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a classic New York City tradition that has been around for more than 80 years. The show stars the famous Rockette dancers which draws a crowd of over 2 million people annually. This year the show will be more dazzling than ever with additions of 3D numbers, amazing décor, theatrics and more. Purchase tickets now to witness twelve acts, old and new, which include The Nutcracker, a 3D sleigh ride through New York City and even 4D effects with actual snow falling from the ceiling. An audience favorite act features a real ice skating rink on stage. Some of the time honored traditions with the show remain a crucial and integral part of the show like the famous “Living Nativity” and “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” segments, which have been around since 1933.
How to Spy Santa in New York City
Macy’s Santaland
Macy’s Santaland will be open daily from 9a.m.-9p.m. starting the day after Thanksgiving all through Saturday, December 24th. This is the perfect time to take a trip to visit Santa Claus and check things off your list, take pictures and admire the Puppet Theater on the 9th floor. Admission is only $3 and shows are available nine times a day.
St. Nick in Central Park
The Belvedere Castle in Central Park will have good old St.Nick visits available on Saturday, December 19th and Sunday, December 20th from noon-3p.m. Children visiting this event can learn about the history of Santa Claus and share their wish lists.
Breakfast with Santa at Rockefeller Center
Visit with Santa Claus and his elves after a smooth ice skating session on the Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink. Then enjoy a fun filled holiday breakfast with special guests with ticket prices starting at $45 for adults and $40 for children. Be sure and make advanced reservations from now through December 24th for this exciting Christmas treat.
Bloomingdale’s Santaland
Santa will also be on the 8th floor of department store giant Bloomingdale’s. Take pictures and admire the beautiful holiday decorations from November 27th-December 24th from noon-6p.m.
Santa on the Southside Seaport
The Southside Seaport will be hosting a Santa Story Hour in the Pier 17 atriums third floor from 1p.m.-2p.m. every Saturday and Sunday from November 28th-December 20th. Santa will also be available to listen to wish lists and take pictures with children of all ages. Santa visits are free so bring your own camera and snap away.
