When Does New York City Actually Start Feeling Like Christmas?
Let’s talk about the burning question on everyone’s lips as soon as the leaves start changing color: When does New York City actually transform into a winter wonderland?
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| When Does New York City Decorate For Christmas |
The Great Christmas Decoration Debate
Now, you might think that New Yorkers are all about that hustle and bustle, and they're too busy chasing dreams to worry about tinsel and reindeer. Well, you'd be kind of right. But when it comes to Christmas, even the toughest of Big Apple residents have a soft spot for a bit of festive cheer.
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The Short Answer: It’s a gradual process, but typically, the city starts to feel truly Christmassy around late November to early December.
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Early Birds Get the Worm (or at Least the Holiday Cheer)
Some stores and fancy hotels are real eager beavers and start decking the halls as early as October. It’s like they're trying to claim Christmas before anyone else. But let's be honest, it's a bit like seeing a kid unwrapping presents on Halloween – it's just too soon.
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The Big Bang: Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is when the Christmas decorations really start to pop. It's like a green light for the city to go full-on festive mode. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is the official kickoff, and suddenly, every corner is adorned with twinkling lights, inflatable snowmen, and those annoyingly catchy Christmas jingles.
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Peak Christmas Vibes
December is when New York truly shines. Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree is a magical sight, and the city's iconic landmarks are draped in holiday splendor. It’s a time for window shopping, hot chocolate, and feeling like a kid again.
But When Does It End?
Ah, the million-dollar question. Ideally, Christmas cheer would last forever, but reality bites. Usually, decorations start to come down around early January. It's a bittersweet moment, like saying goodbye to an old friend.
How to... Your Christmas in NYC
- How to avoid the Christmas crowds: Plan your trip for mid-December. The first and last weeks are usually packed.
- How to find the best Christmas markets: Check out Union Square and Bryant Park for authentic festive shopping experiences.
- How to see the city lights: Take a ferry ride for a unique perspective of the illuminated skyline.
- How to get into the holiday spirit: Watch a classic Christmas movie at a cozy theater.
- How to make the most of your trip: Book your accommodation early, especially if you're visiting during peak season.
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