There is no season like the season in New York. Sound familiar? Do we say that every time there’s a solstice? OK, fine. We do think every season is a great time to be in New York. However, we feel pretty strongly about the Holiday Season in our town. There is simply nothing like it.
To some, it kicks off with the Thanksgiving Parade and ends with the ball drop. While we love the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, we really kick it into gear in Rockefeller Center. Specifically, when the tree is lit!
Once those lights turn on, the season is in full effect. Yes, the streets are extra crowded. Yes, you may have to wait for another subway to come because it’s too packed and yes, the stores will be jammed. With all of that, the city is different.
For those of us who are lifers, you know what we mean. It’s a magical aura that comes over the island. The people are nicer, the lights are brighter, and the wine is sweeter.
New York is the place to be during the Holidays. Just ask one of the tourists that make it a top destination in the world.
New York City will kick off the holiday season on Wednesday, Nov. 28, when the 86th Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony takes place. The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a worldwide symbol of the holidays in New York City.
More than 50,000 lights, about 5 miles of LED lights, will glow on this year’s tree, which was grown in Wallkill, New York. The Norway spruce is 72 feet tall and weighs about 12 tons.
The tree lighting will take place at Rockefeller Plaza, between 49th and 50th streets and Fifth and Sixth avenues, on Wednesday, beginning at 7 p.m. EST, and will be televised nationally on NBC. Our recommendation is NOT to watch it at home. Bear the elements, brave the crowds and get the full experience. You won’t regret it!