It's on 4 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Address611 5th Ave, New York
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
Of all the impressive lights you’re bound to see while celebrating the holidays in New York City, nothing tops the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show where synchronized lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike.
To keep things interesting, Saks Fifth Avenue changes the display every year. In 2023, the department store collaborated with Dior to create the Carousel of Dreams, a unique display centered around the twelve zodiac signs. Sadly, the show was canceled in 2024, we’re hoping for better news in 2025!
DetailsThe light show starts at 5pm and runs in 10-minute intervals until 11pm. Each show lasts 3 minutes (featuring 2-4 popular Christmas songs), followed by a five minute break.
Of all the impressive lights you’re bound to see while celebrating the holidays in New York City with kids, nothing tops the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show where synchronized lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike.
To keep things interesting, Saks Fifth Avenue changes the display every year. In 2023, the department store collaborated with Dior to create the Carousel of Dreams, a unique display centered around the twelve zodiac signs.
I’m curious to see what the designers have up their sleeves in 2025! Most folks stick around and enjoy a few rounds of this popular Christmas light show in New York City, so prepare for crowds, especially after sunset.
Of all the impressive Christmas decorations you’re bound to see during your trip, nothing compares to the spectacular Saks 5th Avenue Light Show that takes place during Christmas at the Rockefeller Center.
The elaborate display and synchronized lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike. Stick around and enjoy a few rounds. Admiring the light show is one of my favorite free things to do at the Rockefeller Center during the holidays.
DetailsThe light show starts at 5pm and runs in 10-minute intervals until 11pm. Each show lasts 3 minutes and has a mashup of 2-4 popular Christmas songs, which is followed by a five minute break.
I’ve been here in every season. My favorite? Fall, when the light hits just right.
Of all the impressive lights you’re bound to see while celebrating the holidays in New York City, nothing tops the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show. The elaborate display and synchronized lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike.
DetailsThe light show starts at 5pm and runs in 10-minute intervals until 11pm. Each show lasts 3 minutes (featuring 2-4 popular Christmas songs), followed by a five minute break.