Christmas

Designers pick the best gifts: NYC creatives share their favorite finds
December 17, 2025

Designers pick the best gifts: NYC creatives share their favorite finds

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6sqft asked New York City designers, architects, and artists for their gift inspirations this holiday season–a selection of the stuff they’d love to give (or get). Below, you'll find a collection of out-of-the-ordinary items chosen by a few of the city’s most talented creatives. We hope you'll be inspired in your search for the perfect gifts.
NYC creatives' gift picks, this way
Experience the Victorian-era magic of Cape May this holiday season

Photo courtesy of Cape May MAC on Flickr

December 4, 2025

Experience the Victorian-era magic of Cape May this holiday season

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If you live in New York City, you’re already in one of the most magical places to spend the holidays. But, if the itch to get out of town sets in this season, a short jaunt south offers Victorian seaside charm set to twinkling lights. Cape May, New Jersey, a longtime summer destination, is even more alluring in December with quaint holiday memories around every corner. From Santa visits with the kids to cocktails for the grown-ups, here’s your guide to a holiday weekend in Cape May.
a victorian-style holiday, this way
The history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a NYC holiday tradition

The 1931 tree, courtesy of Tishman Speyer

December 3, 2025

The history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a NYC holiday tradition

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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, considered the "worldwide symbol of Christmas," will be lit on Wednesday, marking the 93rd tree lighting ceremony. Ahead, learn about the history of the iconic spruce, from its start as a modest Depression-era pick-me-up for Rockefeller Center construction workers to World War regulations to its current 900-pound Swarovski star.
More on the history here
50 places to shop locally in NYC for that perfect gift

Clockwise from top left, photo credits: Beacon’s Closet, Astoria Bookshop, Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store, Friends NYC, Coming Soon NY, Michele Varian Shop

November 21, 2025

50 places to shop locally in NYC for that perfect gift

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We do so much of our shopping online that we sometimes forget the excitement of finding the just-right gift right in front of our eyes. New York City still considers shopping a high art, and some of the best shops on the planet are just around the corner from wherever you are. You’re sure to find a treasure for everyone on your list from the local shops below.
100% amazon-free shopping, this way
Mulchfest is here: How to recycle your Christmas tree in NYC

Credit: Jim Griffin on Flickr

January 2, 2025

Mulchfest is here: How to recycle your Christmas tree in NYC

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The holidays are officially over, and it's time to face the facts: that giant Christmas tree in your living room has got to go. Thankfully, the city's Parks and Sanitation Departments make it easy with Mulchfest, a sustainable way to recycle your tree. Through January 12, New Yorkers can drop off their trees at 75 sites across the five boroughs to be composted. Bring your tree to one of 35 chipping sites on the weekend of January 11 and take home a "tree-mento"—a bag of mulch for your backyard or a street tree’s winter bed.
Find out more
How to spend a perfect holiday afternoon in Central Park

A snow day in Central Park last year. Photo courtesy of the Central Park Conservancy.

December 19, 2024

How to spend a perfect holiday afternoon in Central Park

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Is there anywhere more magical than Central Park during the holidays? With Christmas and Hanukkah beginning on December 25, take some time and appreciate the peaceful feeling of a day in the park before the rush of parties and gift-giving commences. Read on for our idea of a perfect holiday afternoon in Central Park.
our itinerary, this way
The best Christmas trees in New York City
December 3, 2024

The best Christmas trees in New York City

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With holiday festivities ramping up in New York City, neighborhoods across the five boroughs are coming alive with dazzling displays of festive cheer. The city's Christmas and holiday trees, whose allure brings visitors from all corners of the world during the holiday season, all come with their own festive flare. Discover some of the city's most stunning holiday trees, from Rockefeller Center's world-famous tree to lesser-known—but just as elegant—trees at the South Street Seaport and Luna Park.
Find the holiday magic
The 23 best NYC holiday markets this year

FAD Holiday Market at Dumbo Empire Stores. Photo courtesy of FAD Market.

November 27, 2024

The 23 best NYC holiday markets this year

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The holiday season has officially arrived in New York City, bringing with it the quest for the perfect gift. Whether you're searching for one-of-a-kind jewelry or artwork, or are craving a festive treat, the city's holiday markets will have something special for everyone. Ahead, find some of the best spots to find unique and meaningful gifts for loved ones this holiday season, from long-standing markets at Bryant Park, Union Square, and Columbus Circle to exciting newcomers like Macy's Holiday Square.
your gift hunt starts here
Macy’s Herald Square reveals 2024 holiday windows

All photos courtesy of Macy’s, Inc. unless noted otherwise

November 26, 2024

Macy’s Herald Square reveals 2024 holiday windows

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Macy's Herald Square unveiled its iconic holiday window displays last week, continuing a cherished tradition that has enchanted New Yorkers for generations. Macy's was the first department store to feature Christmas window displays in 1874, and this year's delightful creations will capture onlookers and invite them indoors to explore the store's cheerful celebrations.
Find out more
Say ‘fir-well’ to your Christmas tree: Mulchfest is back

Mulchfest 2021. Photo © 6sqft

December 29, 2023

Say ‘fir-well’ to your Christmas tree: Mulchfest is back

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Sick of your Christmas tree taking up space in your living room? There is an easy (and sustainable) way to ditch it. Starting December 26 and running through January 7, the city's annual Mulchfest offers New Yorkers 72 sites across the five boroughs to drop off Christmas trees to be composted. Those who bring their trees to one of 32 chipping sites on the weekend of January 6 will even get to take a bag of mulch home.
see more
2023 holiday gift guide: 50 best gifts for him

Photo by Any Lane on Pexels

December 21, 2023

2023 holiday gift guide: 50 best gifts for him

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'Tis the season to show the special guy in your life how much he means to you. Whether it’s your husband or boyfriend, dad or granddad, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, best friend, or some other special relationship, we’ve got you covered. While men are notorious for saying, “No, don’t get me anything,” we think they’ll say “yes” to any of the items on this list. The list is a mixture of practical gifts, and also fun and unusual selections sure to pique their interest.
our picks here
The best NYC hotels for a luxury holiday experience

Image courtesy of the Plaza Hotel

December 18, 2023

The best NYC hotels for a luxury holiday experience

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In New York City, you can get it all in one place — one minute you can indulge in a $1 slice of pizza on the sidewalk and the next you can be in one of the finest hotels in the country (or even the world). For those looking to get into option two, what better time than the holidays to get a little fancy? We rounded up four ultra-luxury hotels in the city that go all out with holiday decor and experiences that guests and non-guests alike can enjoy.
get the details
In the 1800s, a group of NYC artists and writers created the modern-day Santa Claus

Ever the New Yorker, Santa catches the trolly to Bloomingdales! The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Picture Collection, The New York Public Library, NYPL Digital Collections

December 8, 2023

In the 1800s, a group of NYC artists and writers created the modern-day Santa Claus

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Saint Nicholas arrived in New York with the Dutch and became the Patron Saint of New York City in the early 19th century, but Santa, as we know him, is a hometown boy. New York’s writers and artists were the first to depict the modern Santa Claus, transforming the figure of Dutch lore into a cheerful holiday hero. The illustrious Claus gained his sleigh in Chelsea and his red suit on Franklin Square. With a little help from the likes of Washington Irving, Clement Clarke Moore, and Thomas Nast, jolly old St. Nick became the merriest man in Manhattan.
More about Santa's New York Roots!
15 quintessential NYC gifts for the New Yorker in your life
December 5, 2023

15 quintessential NYC gifts for the New Yorker in your life

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New Yorkers are full of pride for their city. So when it comes to buying gifts for the special New Yorker in your life, why not lean into that? We’ve rounded up 15 quintessential NYC gifts that either help your loved ones show off that pride, support the city’s institutions, or both! These are also great options for ex-New Yorkers who might be feeling nostalgic for the city around the holidays.
GIFTS THIS WAY
10 best under-the-radar holiday events in New York City

Photo courtesy of Winter Lantern Festival.

November 30, 2023

10 best under-the-radar holiday events in New York City

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Holiday magic permeates New York City each year as locals and tourists alike flock to the Fifth Avenue window displays, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, and the many holiday markets. And while tradition is good, it’s also fun to step out of the box and celebrate the holidays with some off-the-beaten-path events (and maybe even start some new traditions). Here are 10 holiday events in NYC that go beyond Manhattan’s classics.
READ MORE
Where to see holiday lights in NYC this year
November 28, 2023

Where to see holiday lights in NYC this year

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One of the best ways to celebrate the holiday season in New York City is to bear witness to the extravagant twinkling light installations and displays that illuminate the five boroughs. Ahead, discover the city's most iconic holiday light displays, from more than two million twinkling lights scattered throughout Hudson Yards to festively illuminated trails at the New York Botanical Garden.
DELIGHTFUL DISPLAYS THIS WAY
All of New York City’s holiday tree lightings
November 27, 2023

All of New York City’s holiday tree lightings

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From the very first public tree lighting ceremony in the country at Madison Square Park to the world's most famous holiday tree at Rockefeller Center, New York City has a strong connection to the sparkling Christmas tradition. Holiday trees can be found across the city, all with their own unique style and festive flair. Ahead, see the spirit of the holidays come to life at tree lighting ceremonies happening at iconic NYC spots, from Bryant Park and Central Park to the New York Stock Exchange and the Bronx's Little Italy.
tree lightings this way
New York City’s best holiday markets of 2023

The Holiday Shops at Bank of America Winter Village 2022, credit Jacob Wiliamson

November 22, 2023

New York City’s best holiday markets of 2023

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The holiday season has hit New York City in full force, and despite the convenience of online buying, the city's streets are bustling with shoppers scurrying to find unique gifts and goodies. Popping up to meet the winter frenzy is a triumphant trove of festive markets offering one-of-a-kind creations–and a chance to mingle, jingle, nibble, and nosh. Read on for our picks of the best holiday markets and pop-up shops, from the familiar holiday hubs at Union Square and Bryant Park to an upstate farm and flea affair in Hudson.
Shop local, this way
Empire State Building receives ‘Elf’ takeover for movie’s 20th anniversary

All photos by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust unless noted otherwise

November 9, 2023

Empire State Building receives ‘Elf’ takeover for movie’s 20th anniversary

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The Empire State Building is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the holiday classic "Elf" with new festive decorations and screenings of the movie in the skyscraper's 80th-floor observatory. Visitors will be able to snap photos with a life-sized cutout of Buddy the Elf, view ground-floor window displays featuring Elf-themed merchandise for purchase, and more.
learn more
Mulchfest is back: Here’s how to recycle your Christmas tree in NYC

Photo credit: NYC Parks / Daniel Avila

January 3, 2023

Mulchfest is back: Here’s how to recycle your Christmas tree in NYC

By
With the holidays behind us, there's no better way to officially wrap up the season than sustainably disposing of your Christmas tree. The Parks Department's annual Mulchfest started on December 26 and will run through January 8, with 73 drop-off sites across the five boroughs for New Yorkers to bid "fir-well" to the holidays. On January 7 and 8 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., residents can bring their trees to one of the city's 35 chipping sites, watch them be chipped, and take a bag of mulch home.
Find out more
On this day in 1912, the nation’s first public Christmas tree went up in Madison Square Park

Bain News Service, Publisher. Xmas tree in Madison Sq. Park, N.Y.C. , ca. 1910. [Between and Ca. 1915] Photograph. Library of Congress Digital Collections.

December 21, 2022

On this day in 1912, the nation’s first public Christmas tree went up in Madison Square Park

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On December 21, 1912, a 60-foot-tall tree arrived by horse-drawn truck from the Adirondacks to provide Manhattan's Madison Square Park with the glow of 2,300 colored electric bulbs. The twinklers were donated by the Edison Company, and the tree was the first of its kind: Having a Christmas tree in one's living room was a familiar custom, but a tree outside in a public park was something new.
Get the whole history right this way
Will New York City see a White Christmas this year?

Snow in Central Park; Photo courtesy of the Central Park Conservancy

December 21, 2022

Will New York City see a White Christmas this year?

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New Yorkers who fantasize about opening their blinds on Christmas morning to a sprawling landscape of snow will likely be disappointed this year. According to the "White Christmas Calculator," a tool created by the Omni Calculator Project that gives the likelihood of snowfall in major cities, the probability that New York City sees at least one inch of snow on December 25 is approximately 13.2 percent. However, there are a few other cities located nearby with a near or over 50 percent chance of seeing flurries.
Dreaming of a White Christmas?
How to decorate your small NYC apartment for the holidays

Photo by Chad Madden on Unsplash

December 20, 2022

How to decorate your small NYC apartment for the holidays

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Decorating your home is one of the joys of the holidays. But in New York City, most people don’t have room for a 10-foot Christmas tree or an elaborate display of lights. But that shouldn’t stop even studio dwellers from getting into the spirit! We spoke to interior designers to get some expert tips on how to decorate small spaces for the holidays.
Tips this way
Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, and more: The history of New York City’s holiday windows

Shoppers check out a holiday window, via The Library of Congress

December 1, 2022

Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, and more: The history of New York City’s holiday windows

By
Santa rode in on his sleigh at the end of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Christmas Tree is now lit at Rockefeller Center, so you know what that means: It’s officially the holiday season in New York. It’s fitting that Macy’s heralds the beginning of our collective good cheer since R. H. Macy himself revolutionized the holiday season when he debuted the nation’s very first Christmas Windows at his store on 14th Street in 1874. Since then, all of New York’s major department stores have been turning merchandise into magic with show-stopping holiday window displays. Historically, New York’s holiday windows have deployed a combination of spectacle, science, and art, with cutting-edge technology and the talents of such luminaries as Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, and Robert Rauschenberg. From hydraulic lifts to steam-powered windows, take a look back at the history of New York’s holiday windows, the last word in high-tech, high-design holiday cheer.
Look at more holiday history here
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