christmas in nyc: 5th & 6th Ave Midtown

If you've made it this far, you're ready for the main event! The most Christmas neighborhood in all of Manhattan, Midtown! Home of the Rockettes and the tree at Rockefeller Center, most of the holiday magic takes place along 5th & 6th Ave. I like to start at Central Park and work my way down 5th Ave (and a few off-shoots along the way) and then head back up 6th Ave. And sometimes I do this commute in the afternoon & then again in the evening because everything is better with their twinkling lights.

Best holiday magic in NYC #13: 5th Avenue & Saks

The toys along 5th Ave are fun & whimsical and since they are spread out across many blocks, each toy is a new surprise as you make your way along the Avenue.

Another favorite yearly tradition is seeing the giant candy canes hang on 57th & 58th Street.

Different every year, the massive art installation on the Louis Vuitton & Cartier buildings are other must sees.

One of the most famous churches in all Manhattan, St. Patrick's Cathedral is stunning for advent.

The star of 5th Ave (and my favorite of all the NYC Christmas events) is the musical light show at Sak's 5th Avenue. Playing every 15 mins staring at 4:30 the building is aglow with thousands of lights, flashing in time with a medley of songs. Photos do not do this show justice and it is something you have to watch live (numerous times). It is the most magical experience. When the show isn't playing, check out the display windows which are some of the most beautiful in the city. At night, you'll see the reflection of the Rockefeller Tree in the windows and that adds to the magic in the best possible way.

Best holiday magic in NYC #14: The Plaza Hotel & Pulizer Fountain

Across from The Plaza, the most magnificent window displays belong to Bergdorf. The windows show fashion, turned up a few notches, and exaggerated in the most storybook way. You are instantly transported to another world.

Best holiday magic in NYC #15: Midtown Hotels

There is no shortage of festive hotels in Manhattan, but some of the most famous are the Lotte Palace Hotel, The Peninsula Hotel, and the St. Regis Hotel. Decked out with their Christmas trees, Nutcracker kings & toy soldiers, these Midtown Hotels are worth a peak as you're cruising down 5th Ave.

Best holiday magic in NYC #16: 6th Ave & Radio City Music Hall

Highlights of 6th Ave are Radio City Music Hall and oversized Christmas décor. There are giant ornaments, massive candy canes, larger than life nutcrackers and (sometimes) giant-sized Christmas tree lights. Seeing the Radio City Spectacular, featuring the Rockettes is at the top of my holiday bucket list for next year!

Best holiday magic in NYC #17: Rockefeller Center

Many think of The Rockefeller Tree as a destination along 5th Avenue, but I like to sneak along the backside and view the tree without the crowds. Sure you don't see the angles with their trumpets, but in the days of Covid, I'm happy to skip the masses and get up close and personal with the tree instead. Without further ado, the NYC Rockefeller Christmas Tree!