Why Is New York City So Popular at Christmas Time?

About 6 ½ hours away from Kenmore, New York, sits New York City in the southeastern part of the state around the New Jersey and Pennsylvania border. Although always a sight, New York City is the most magical and exciting place come Christmas. Why do families from year to year spend thousands of dollars and drive multiple hours just to spend one day in New York City? Here are five reasons why:

1. Movies Produced In New York City- There have been many Christmas movies based out of New York City including Elf, Miracle on 34th Street, and Home Alone 2. Home Alone 2 and Elf rank 4th and 8th respectively highest in gross net. Many people have seen these Christmas movies and are interested in going to New York City since these movies take place there. It also adds to the overall spirit and magic during the holiday season in New York City.  

2. The Stores In New York City- All year round, but especially in December, New York City is known for its magical stores including clothing stores like Macy’s, sports stores like Nike or Adidas, various other small businesses, or even just Fifth Street that is known worldwide for its expensive yet busy stores. These stores are another magical value to Christmas time in New York City.

3. Sightseeing- At Christmas time, there are many places to see in New York City that are well known, including the Rockefeller Tree (where you can also ice skate), Broadway which is at its finest during the holiday season, window displays, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and more! It adds a lot to the city's culture and magic during the holiday season. 

4. Christmas Lights- Every Year, lights are hung in New York City, most noticeably at the Rockefeller Tree. It’s so popular that every year on one night, people gather on the streets for the lighting of the tree, signifying the beginning of the magical holiday season! For the most part, when you’re walking around the city, the decorations and Christmas lights adorn the city and contribute to the magic of New York City at this time of year!

5. Snow- Sure, we live in Buffalo, and it seems we have a snowstorm every other week, but some people who travel up to New York from down South have never experienced snow, which can be a magical experience for the first time! No matter where you come from though, when it snows, it adds a nice touch to the buildings ity and Central Park, which sits in the heart of the city. It is a top place to experience snow, especially during the holiday season!

No matter whether you love or hate the city, there is no denying it is one of, if not the best, places to be when Christmas comes! Its movies, stores, sights, holiday decor, and snow make it a magical and exciting place come December. If you ever get the chance to go, don’t pass up on it! It is truly the perfect place to be in December, even if just for a day! There’s a reason why Alica Keys calls it the “concrete jungle where dreams are made of!”