I love Christmas. For as long as I can remember, I have experienced what can only be described as full body possession by a deranged little elf towards the culmination of Thanksgiving dinner. Dropping my fork, after my final serving of desert signified one thing and one thing alone- Christmas season had descended yet again.
This year was no different. With my final buttery bite of pecan pie on Thursday night it began. No, I was not elbowing my way into stores at the crack of midnight, the shift was more subtle, more about the sentimentality that the season ushers in. A feeling that causes one to hang stockings and string lights in order to make everything look a lot like Christmas. And I was in good company, because as I was preparing to make my apartment look a lot like Christmas, my city had grander plans.
One of the best times to visit New York is during the Christmas season. Manhattan hosts some of the most elaborate display windows and lights displays of the holiday season. Best of all, you don’t need to spend a cent. As free to enjoy as air, anyone can enjoy the city’s festive flair. So grab a cup of savory hot chocolate ( preferably from Le Masion de Chocolat - so blissful) and enjoy a walking tour of some of Manhattan’s finest Holiday displays.
When I set out to see the sights, I began at Macy’s on 34th street and 7th Avenue.
Next stop, Lord and Taylor on 38th street and 5th Avenue.
On to Saks Fifth Avenue at 50th street (ish) and 5th ave.
When I was done there, I made the trek over to Rockefeller Center where I caught a glimpse of the giant spruce (not yet lit) and watched the skaters take a few laps around the ice. The plaza was fully decorated as were many of the shops nearby.
Henri Bendel's at 56th street and 5th ave
Now on to one of the most elaborate displays of the evening- Bergdorf Goodmans at 5th avenue and 58th street (ish).
After taking in all of the Manhattan holiday sights and sounds, I am inspired to outdo myself this year when it comes to decorating my apartment for Christmas.
