It’s the most wonderful time of the year (well, nearly) and it’s no secret that one of the most magical places to celebrate Christmas is in New York City. Heading to the Big Apple? Live your own Miracle on 34th Street experience and check out these festive experiences for very merry Christmas.
Related article: 10 unmissable romantic Christmas markets
For OTT luxury…
The Peninsula New York’s Holly Jolly New York Holiday package
If you’re looking to go all out, book yourselves the Holly Jolly New York Holiday package at The Peninsula New York. Including a stay in a fully decked-out deluxe room (pictured above), plus a holiday window walking tour, VIP admission to the Top of the Rock observation deck and access to Saks Fifth Avenue before store opening (with access to the Fifth Avenue Club), this package is for couples looking to really treat themselves.
For glamorous Fifth Avenue window displays…
Tiffany & Co.
Whether you’re fashion-obsessed or you just love seeing a beautifully decorated window display, you’re spoilt for choice in New York. Definitely worth checking out is Tiffany & Co.’s glittering windows. Known for its iconic displays, the jeweller’s 2017 windows have reinterpreted the classic designs of Gene Moore (who pioneered Tiffany’s holiday windows) to feature bejewelled Christmas trees, plus festive dinner and dazzling city skyline scenes. Make like Holly Golightly and grab yourselves a coffee from Tiffany’s newly opened Blue Box Cafe at the flagship Fifth Avenue store and marvel at the beauty of its windows.
Saks Fifth Avenue
The Saks Fifth Avenue windows are an absolute must-see this year. Celebrating the 80th anniversary of Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the store’s Once Upon a Holiday window display features a 10-story-tall theatrical light show, plus breathtakingly beautiful one-of-a-kind garments from designers like Monique Lhuillier, Naeem Khan and Alberta Ferretti, all made just for the display. Do. Not. Miss.
Lord & Taylor
For a little old-world charm, head over to Lord & Taylor. Entitled The Best and The Brightest, the store’s animated windows showcase five enchanting scenes through the lens of a whimsical snow globe. Depicting scenes like Christmas in the city, a winter woodland and a holiday circus, the display is one for the young at heart.
For traditional Christmas charm…
Winter Wonderland SI
Create a new Christmas tradition and head along to the first ever Winter Wonderland SI at Staten Island’s Richmond County Bank Ballpark, just moments from the Staten Island Ferry terminal. On until December 23, the fun-filled festival includes a skating rink, carnival rides, a 34-vendor holiday market, a dusk light show and an adults-only Igloo Bar with entertainment and holiday-inspired cocktails. Well, you’ve got to keep warm, right?
Christmas markets
There are almost too many Christmas markets to count popping up around New York City, each with plenty of festive charm and an array of unique souvenirs to buy. For European-style open-air markets, head over to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, Bryant Park Winter Village Shops (this beauty of a market also features an ice rink) and the Union Square Holiday Market. From handmade jewellery to gorgeous Christmas tree ornaments, there’s a world of artisanal goods to pick up for a present for someone special.
Rockefeller Centre
It’s about as traditional a Christmas experience as you can get in New York City, but seeingRockefeller Centre all magnificently decorated is something you’ll never forget. An iconic symbol of the city, the famous big tree will be lit up until 7 January. If you’re happy to wait, get your skates on and visit the ice rink just below the big tree for some Hollywood-inspired Christmas romance.
Thinking of a glamorous city escape? Find plenty of inspiration here
