As the sounds of yuletide carols and delicious smells of holiday treats envelope people across the world, the magic of winter sparkles across New York City. Shimmering Christmas tree decorations and dazzling store windows set the backdrop to last-minute gift shopping as people dash across town in search of presents for loved ones.
However, in the midst of all these frenzied preparations and all the talk of recession doom and gloom, it is easy to forget to have some childlike fun–it is Christmas after all. So grab your warmest coat and step outside into the luminous winter wonderland that is the Big Apple where anything and everything is possible.
Although the city is packed with places to visit and things to do, there are a few things which are an absolute must. Begin your journey with a breathtaking view of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, and then whip on your skates for a twirl upon its infamous open-air ice rink. After a couple of spins, enjoy a well-deserved mug of hot chocolate at the Rock Center Café as you people-watch the skaters outside.
Although the celebrated tradition of visiting the tree at Rockefeller is a show in itself, there is an annual holiday performance that may just about top it. Elegance wrapped in history is what awaits audiences at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular: with the Rockettes in their fabulous costumes and cabaret-inspired choreography, it is one of the most explosive nights in the city.
Radio City Music Hall is not the only place hosting a spectacular performance. Over at Madison Square Garden, the newest sensation from Cirque du Soleil, Wintuk, is taking Manhattan by storm. Telling the heartwarming tale of a young boy on a mission to bring snow back to his city, Wintuk is brimming with sensational acrobatics and inspiring songs. With surprises lurking in every act– such as the acrobatic clowns jumping upon Swiss balls or the graceful aerial-strapped ballet dancers–you will be left gazing in awe.
Strolling down the streets of Manhattan, make sure you pop round the charming I Heart boutique in Nolita for a spot of gift shopping. This delightful basement-floor den is brimming with to-die-for threads and accessories, from the new and vintage to Eley Kishimoto and Made Her Think…you’re be sure to find something a little funky (262 Mott St., NY 10012). For some spectacular window shopping, head to Saks Fifth Avenue or Macy’s, where the magical window displays appear to have sprung from the pages of a fairytale book. And after all this retail frenzy, it’s time to reward yourself with a scrumptious Belgian waffle at the newly opened Ortine café in Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights. With its eclectic décor characterized by French country wallpaper and modern chandeliers, this little nook is fabulously cosy and serves up some fine waffles indeed (622 Washington Avenue, NY 11238).
After having immersed yourself in the joys of Christmas, all that there’s left to do is to ring in 2009 with friends and family. And there’s no place like the famed Times Square to count down the hours and minutes whilst enjoying electric performances staged on rooftops above you. As the ball drops and the confetti flutters from the sky above, make a wish for a year filled with tranquility, joy and hope as we wave adieu to the worries of 2008.
Image courtesy of Midweekpost
