before i venture out to tackle some christmas shopping of my own, i thought i would give some holiday info and hotspots to visit. now we all know that rockefeller center is the place to be right now. you have the tree, the rockettes, and the skating rink all right there. we also know that the macy's window display is on everyone's holiday must-see list, and this year it is super cool! it is interactive, showing us how santa claus receives his letters from children all around the world. however, the holiday fun does not end there. here are my top five things you should see right now!
1. the holiday markets- there are four of these located throughout the city: union square at 14th st, bryant park at 42nd, grand central station, and columbus circle at 59th st. these markets sell beautiful gifts ranging from one of a kind chocolates, to knitted hats and scarves, to handmade jewelry. there is something unique you could find for everyone on your list, and while you shop in these outdoor markets, be sure to drink the hot cider and eat homemade ginger bread. the waffles and dinges cart found randomly around the city usually has a permanent spot at the union square market. i recommend the waffle with nutella on it. oh man is it so good.
2. the holiday star show- if you are visiting the market at columbus circle, head over to the mall for the star show. the first show is around 5:00 p.m. and the gigantic stars light up and change colors to music. to end the show, a flurry of snow falls from the ceiling to create some true nyc magic.
3. 5th ave store fronts- macy's isn't the only place with awe-inspiring window displays. you could start at rockefeller center and watch the snowflake show on saks 5th ave.'s building and then head north (follow the huge snowflake that is down by the apple store). check out cartier, tiffany's, dinsney store's, and bergdorf goodman's displays. they are all amazing!
4. the bronx zoo- true most of the animals are hibernating, but some are still out to see. there is a light display that you can take the kiddos to, but for a real treat, some of santa's reindeer have strayed from the north pole! that's right, you can see real live reindeer located by the mouse house. they are so cute and yet again the magic of christmas comes alive!
5. dyker heights christmas lights- for those of you who have never heard of dyker heights, it is located in brooklyn. actually, it is my neighborhood and we have the BEST lights around. if you are wary about coming to brooklyn, fear not! you can take a bus tour to view these spectacular homes covered in christmas lights, inflatables, animatronics, and even a 50 foot santa! this is no joke and you will not be disappointed. the neighborhood is also easy to get to by car, so get directions and come visit! after viewing the neighborhood, grab a slice of brick oven pizza at bella luna, located on 86th st and 7th ave.
so there you are! i hope that when you come to nyc you too will find your own holiday surprises and cheer!
this is beth signing off.
mission accomplished.
The Dyker Heights lights are no joke! For real...these people pay professionals to turn their houses and yards into minitaure themeparks (Toyland, the North Pole, etc...). Crazy stuff!
ReplyDelete