The holidays sparkle with an iconic sheen in New York City; idyllic snowy images filled with ice skating, window shopping and lots of hot cocoa come to mind. Get ready to put yourself into these picture-perfect scenes, because the Big Apple does the holiday season in a big way.
Get into the holiday spirit at the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Join 2.5 million other spectators as this classic event takes place for its 81st year. Get there early for the best spots and leave the folding chairs at home; this is a site best seen on your feet. For a unique experience before the festivities begin, stop by the day before and watch the famous floats as they are blown up!
Just as Thanksgiving winds down, gear up for Christmas with the lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas tree on November 28th. Dust off your ice skates and take a spin on the center’s classic rink before exploring the endless rows of shops for some of the world’s best holiday shopping. And it doesn’t end there. Who can imagine New Year’s Eve without the Ball dropping? This year, the Ball celebrates its 100th birthday at the annual Times Square celebration. A brand new LCD and Waterford crystal ball will make its first descent at midnight - along with two tons of sparkling confetti. Now that is a party.
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Things to know:
Region: New York City
Average temperature: Between 32 and 44 degrees F.
Dates and Prices: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade starts from 77th St. and Central Park West on November 22. The crowds arrive beginning at 6:30 a.m. - so get there early! The Rockefeller Tree Lighting is on November 28, and the ball drops on December 31st. Admission to The Rink at Rockefeller Center ranges from $5 to $14. Visit www.rapatina.com/iceRink/ for more information.
Extra Stops: Stop for a Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity, or wander 5th and Madison Avenues to delight in some exceptionally festive window displays.
Photos courtesy NYC & Company.
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