How about a game to find out what makes New York so magical at Christmas time? This is what offers you Family Way with the challenge of the month of December.
A little history
Above all, know that there is no chance, the modern history of Christmas finds many roots in New York starting with that of Santa Claus. Indeed, the Dutch arrived there with the tradition of Saint Nicholas (Saint Nicholas) from which Santa Klaus derives. The transformation will take place in particular thanks to the contribution of two authors. The writer Washington Irving will popularize it by making Saint Nicolas the Patron Saint of the State of New York in his book “A history of New York” published in 1809. Then Clement Clarke Moore, a New York pastor, by describing him like a cheerful man going from house to house on a sleigh to deliver presents, in his poem entitled “It was the night before Christmas”.
Strong traditions in New York
New York is now perceived as one of the cities that best embodies the spirit of Christmas. She transforms on this occasion. The magic happens thanks to the atmosphere but also thanks to local traditions. Thus, each year, the setting up of the gigantic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center generates a real ceremonial. The illuminations of department stores like Saks are celebrated. There are the unmissable Christmas markets in Bryant Park or Union Square and the ice rinks. In addition, the city is adorned with very emblematic decorations. So you can’t miss the Nutcrackers (nutcrackers), little wooden soldiers from a German tale, adapted by Alexandre Dumas and which will inspire the ballet of the same name. They are everywhere in the city at Christmas time and, in particular, on the posters of the big dance companies. But there are so many other symbols in the city such as the gingerbread housesgingerbread houses covered in colorful frostings and candies, the tradition of the elf on the shelf elf on the shelf that parents move every day before Christmas, Christmas movies, the Ugly sweaterugly Christmas sweater, the Christmas stockings, Christmas stockings, and many more…
A challenge to discover another emblem of Christmas in New York
It’s up to you to find another emblem of Christmas in New York. It is a confectionery that is tasted mainly during this period and that is used to decorate Christmas trees. You can’t miss it on Sixth Avenue between 46th and 52nd St, it has been made into a beautiful Christmas sculpture. And a little extra hint, its colors dress part of the Empire State Building from the middle of December. If you doubt the answer, go to the site www.family-way.com.
Some addresses to enjoy Christmas in the neighborhood and its surroundings
Midtown is the center of attraction in New York during the holiday season. By walking along Fifth or Sixth Avenue between Central Park and Bryant Park, you will already capture a good part of the atmosphere. Here are some addresses not to be missed to fully experience Christmas in NYC:
- The Christmas Markets or Holiday markets as they are called in New York to integrate all the end of the year celebrations. There are gift ideas, a warm atmosphere, often local or artisanal products. Don’t miss the Winter Village at Bryant Park or the Union square holidays market.
- New York shopping centers are also setting up their spaces for the end-of-year celebrations. We sometimes go there just to admire the facilities and enjoy the magic of the place. Thereby, Brookfield Place near One World Trade Center or Hudson Yards near the Vessel are really worth the trip.
- Obviously, with children or not, the magic happens by looking at the windows. Saks and Macy’s are unavoidable.
- If you want to immerse yourself in a Christmas atmosphere for lunch or dinner, then meet at Rolf’s restaurant. From the walls to the ceiling, everything is covered with Christmas decorations.
- Do you dream of a good and real hot chocolate? So see you at Angelina right next to Bryant Park.
- Finally, if you want to share an activity with the family, opt for one of the popular activities in New York during the holidays, skating. You can choose to skate under the Christmas tree in the Rockefeller Centerto middle of the buildings emblematic of New York, on the banks of the Hudson River or in the heart of one of the city’s two large parks (Central Park Where Prospect Park).
- If you are ready to go a little further, then meet at Dyker Heights. This residential neighborhood is located south of Brooklyn. The inhabitants deploy gigantic means to decorate their houses there. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, stroll from 83rd to 86th St, between 10th and 13th Ave. One of the exceptional houses located precisely on 84th, between 11th and 12th Ave.
Attention, before going to one of these sites, it is necessary to check the latest updates concerning the special Covid-19 measures.
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