JULIAN MACIAS
The Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show has long been a dazzling highlight of the holiday season in New York City, captivating locals and tourists alike with its stunning displays. However, this year marks a significant change: Saks Fifth Avenue will not host its iconic holiday light show for the first time in nearly two decades.
A Beloved Tradition
For many years, the light show transformed the façade of Saks Fifth Avenue into a vibrant canvas of 600,000 twinkling lights synchronized to festive music. Each show, lasting about three to four minutes, would run every ten minutes from late November through early January, creating a magical atmosphere on Fifth Avenue. The show was renowned for its unique themes and spectacular visuals, making it a must-see during the holiday season.
What’s Changing?
In 2024, Saks has decided to shift its focus from the light show to enhancing its holiday window displays, celebrating the architectural beauty of its flagship store instead. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Saks’ flagship location, prompting a reimagining of how they celebrate the season. While there will be no light show, shoppers can still expect beautifully illuminated windows accompanied by “magical jingles” throughout the holiday season.
The decision has sparked mixed feelings among New Yorkers. Many express disappointment, as the light show was not just a spectacle but a cherished tradition that brightened up the holiday spirit in Midtown Manhattan. Comments from locals reflect a sense of loss: “That’s terrible… it brightens up the avenue,” lamented one Brooklyn resident.
What to Look Forward To
Despite the absence of the light show, Saks will unveil its new holiday windows later this month. These displays will showcase luxury fashion against a backdrop of colorful decorations, promising to still deliver a festive experience for shoppers and passersby.
As we approach this holiday season, while we may miss the enchanting light display at Saks Fifth Avenue, there’s still plenty of holiday magic to be found in New York City—especially with the nearby Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting up the skyline!