I've been to New York several times but the trip that really blew me away was in December ten years ago. The city and atmosphere were so Christmassy, it was just magical and definitely one of my best travel memories with Mr. FFID.
If you follow me on Snapchat or Instagram you probably saw I recently visited New York for a few days, mainly eating my way around the city. Having previously done the touristy activities, Mr. FFID and I focused this trip on food and festive activities.
Before Christmas is over I wanted to share a list of the must-do/see things in NYC in December. If you ever plan a trip to the Big Apple this time of the year make sure to have a decent budget (the city ain't cheap) and bring lots of layers (we experienced -8 °C).
Rockefeller Center Plaza
At the Rockefeller Centre you find one of the most iconic Christmas trees of all, featured in many Christmas movies. The giant tree has thousands of lights and overlooks the Rockefeller ice rink. The spot is always crowded and the ice rink is tiny and expensive but it's beautiful and so Christmassy you can't miss it!
Ice-Skating in Central Park
I think my only regret in life was not to going ice skating in Central park ten years ago, so this was at the top of my priority list this time. The Wollman ice rink is much bigger than the one at the Rockefeller or Bryant Park, again not cheap but so Christmassy and worth the experience.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park Winter Village is not to be missed with its ice rink, beautiful tree and many stalls selling gifts and food. I was quite blown away by the variety of food on offer, from raclette to chimney cakes, from tacos to arancini... I wanted to try absolutely everything!
Saks Fifth Avenue
I will always remember the first time I experienced the Christmas sound and light show at Saks Fifth Avenue. I'm sorry but Brown Thomas in Dublin and Galeries Lafayette in Paris will never live up to what they do in Saks with their lights and window displays. Just incredible! Watch it here if you don't believe me.
Union Square Holiday Market
There is a fabulous farmers market at Union Square all year round but also a holiday market during the festive season. They have little wooden chalets with vendors selling various craft gifts and there is also food, what's not to love?
Christmas decorations in Midtown Manhattan
Just walk around Midtown Manhattan and you will see so many beautiful Christmas decorations at every street corner. From giant Christmas red baubles to giant lights, from Christmas trees to window displays, New York simply does Christmas bigger and brighter than anywhere else!
With this festive post I wish you a wonderful Christmas, may it be filled with lots of happiness and the most delicious food!
x
FFID
