Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025: Official Return, Dates, Tips
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 is officially back after its cancellation in 2024. Saks confirmed the return for November during a press statement, describing last year’s pause as a temporary budget decision. With the official comeback, New York regains one of its most iconic free holiday traditions at 611 Fifth Avenue.
Each evening, the Saks flagship store transforms into a dazzling show of synchronized lights and music across from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Visitors from around the world gather to watch the illuminated façade, which repeats every few minutes throughout the holiday season.
This guide shares everything you need to know about the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025: the confirmed return, expected dates, daily times, blackout days, and tips for the best viewing spots. You’ll also find nearby highlights such as the Bryant Park Winter Village and the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree.
For more planning ideas, explore our Best Things to Do at Christmas in NYC guide. And don’t miss our live updates on Instagram at MyChristmasInNewYorkCity, where we’ll share photos and videos straight from Fifth Avenue as preparations begin.
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Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025: Official Return Confirmed
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 is officially confirmed to return this holiday season. The flagship store at 611 Fifth Avenue in Midtown will once again transform into a sparkling wonderland of lights and music. This free spectacle is one of the most magical Christmas activities in New York, attracting visitors of all ages.
In 2024, the show was canceled for the first time due to budget cuts. That pause left many wondering if the tradition had ended for good. Saks later clarified the decision was temporary, and 2025 now marks its official return.
Emily Essner, Chief Commercial Officer at Saks, confirmed: “The Saks Fifth Avenue flagship holiday light show, which was canceled last year, is being revived this year and will happen in November.” Her statement ended speculation and reassured New Yorkers that the city’s most famous light show is back.
Preparations usually begin in September, when scaffolding and early installations appear on the façade. Saks will announce the schedule and daily showtimes closer to the November launch. We will update this guide as soon as confirmed details are released.
If you are planning a trip, check our guide to Christmas in New York key dates and events. It highlights the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 along with other must-see holiday attractions across the city.
Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Windows 2025: A Must-See Tradition
The Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Windows 2025 are set to return alongside the official comeback of the Saks Light Show. While the light show grabs headlines, the windows remain one of the most beautiful and creative holiday displays in New York City. Each year, Saks transforms its Fifth Avenue storefront into a series of magical, themed windows that attract thousands of visitors.
Even during 2024, when the Saks Light Show was canceled, the Christmas windows continued to shine. That consistency makes them one of the most reliable holiday traditions in Midtown Manhattan. For 2025, the Saks windows are expected to be unveiled on the same evening as the light show’s opening ceremony in late November, creating one of the season’s most festive moments on Fifth Avenue.
If you love holiday windows in New York, don’t miss Macy’s Christmas Windows at Herald Square. Scheduled for unveiling on November 13, 2025, they remain a highlight of the holiday calendar. Together, the Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Windows 2025 and Macy’s displays represent the heart of the Christmas season in New York.
For anyone visiting the city in December, we always recommend exploring both Saks and Macy’s. These iconic department stores offer two of the most photo-worthy and festive experiences during Christmas in New York. For more festive holiday displays, check our full article on the Best Christmas windows!
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 Schedule: What to Expect
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 will officially return this November after its 2024 cancellation. In 2024, the event was paused due to budget cuts, marking the first time Fifth Avenue went dark in decades. Thankfully, Saks confirmed the tradition is back, and the 2025 schedule should follow its classic format.
The opening night ceremony is expected on Monday, November 24, 2025. Based on past years, it should include fireworks, celebrity appearances, and live performances. In 2022, Sir Elton John performed at the launch, showing how spectacular the event can be. The Saks Christmas Windows will also be unveiled that same evening, making it one of the most festive nights in New York City.
From opening night through early January 2026, the Saks Light Show will run daily. Performances are expected to start around 5:00 p.m. and continue until 11:00 p.m. Each show lasts about three minutes and repeats every ten minutes. Visitors can watch synchronized lights and music projected onto the historic façade across from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
Installations usually begin in late September, with scaffolding and testing visible weeks before the launch. Official times will be confirmed closer to the opening, but visitors can expect frequent nightly shows throughout the season.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 Location in NYC
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 takes place at 611 Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. This corner of the city is one of the busiest and most festive during the Christmas season. The store sits directly across from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and beside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, creating the perfect holiday setting.
Visitors should also explore nearby icons. The Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree, just behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral, is one of the city’s most elegant displays. We feature this stop on our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour with Papillon Christmas Restaurant, which helps guests enjoy Midtown’s dazzling lights without overwhelming crowds.
Another highlight is Papillon NYC, one of New York’s most famous Christmas restaurants. Located a short walk from Saks, it offers a festive meal surrounded by beautiful holiday décor. It’s the perfect way to end an evening after seeing the lights on Fifth Avenue.
Together, Saks Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Lotte Palace Tree, and Papillon NYC create an unforgettable holiday itinerary. Few places in the world bring together so many iconic attractions within just a few blocks.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 Dates in NYC
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 is officially back, with the opening night ceremony expected on Monday, November 24, 2025. This kickoff event is one of the most anticipated moments of the holiday season in New York City. Based on past years, it should feature fireworks, live performances, and celebrity appearances. In 2022, Elton John performed live, proving how spectacular the launch can be.
In 2024, the show was canceled for the first time in decades due to budget cuts. Saks described that decision as temporary, and 2025 now marks the official return of this world-famous New York tradition. The comeback restores one of Fifth Avenue’s most iconic holiday experiences.
From November 24, 2025, through the first days of January 2026, the Saks Light Show will run daily. Performances are expected to begin around 5:00 p.m. and continue until 11:00 p.m., repeating every 10 minutes. Each show lasts about three minutes and combines music with dazzling lights projected onto the historic façade across from Rockefeller Center.
Installation work usually begins in late September, with scaffolding and testing visible weeks before opening night. The Saks Christmas Windows 2025 will also be unveiled on the same evening as the light show’s debut, making Fifth Avenue the epicenter of holiday magic that night.
When Does the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 Start?
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 is expected to begin on Monday, November 24, 2025, with a spectacular opening night ceremony. This festive event usually includes fireworks, celebrity appearances, and live performances, making it one of the most exciting holiday moments in New York City. The Saks Christmas Windows 2025 will also be unveiled on the same evening, adding even more magic to Fifth Avenue.
From opening night through early January 2026, the show will run daily from about 5:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.. Performances repeat every 10 minutes, and each one lasts about three minutes. This frequent schedule makes it easy to enjoy the Saks Light Show while also exploring nearby holiday favorites like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating rink, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
The 2024 cancellation was a rare pause caused by budget cuts, but Saks confirmed that the tradition is officially back for 2025. Visitors can look forward to the same magical mix of synchronized music and lights that has made the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show one of the best free attractions during Christmas in New York.
How Often Does the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 Play?
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 runs at regular intervals every evening during the holiday season. Performances repeat about every ten minutes, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., so you never wait long, even on busy nights.
Each show lasts about three minutes and delivers a dazzling mix of lights, music, and festive projections across the Saks flagship on Fifth Avenue. Because of the frequent schedule, you can easily combine the light show with nearby attractions such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating at the rink, or the Saks Christmas Windows, unveiled the same night as the show.
If you arrive just as a performance ends, don’t worry, another begins only minutes later. This consistency makes the Saks Light Show one of the most convenient and memorable holiday highlights in New York.
With its official return in 2025, the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show offers endless chances to enjoy one of Midtown Manhattan’s most magical free attractions.
What Is the Duration of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025?
Each performance of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 lasts about three minutes. During that time, visitors enjoy synchronized lights, festive music, and dazzling animations projected onto the Saks flagship store at 611 Fifth Avenue.
The short format makes it easy to fit the show into any holiday schedule. Because performances repeat every ten minutes from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., you can watch before or after nearby highlights such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Bryant Park Winter Village, or the Saks Christmas Windows.
Choreographed to classic holiday songs, the show fills Fifth Avenue with festive spirit. Its brevity is part of the charm, allowing you to watch more than once in one evening or combine it smoothly with other Midtown Christmas attractions.
With its official return in 2025, the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show once again stands out as one of the most convenient and unforgettable free holiday experiences in New York.
Blackout Dates for This Iconic NYC Free Attraction
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 will run almost every evening from November 24 through early January 2026. However, two blackout dates mean the show will pause. On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place, and Saks suspends the light show that night. The second pause is on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, Christmas Eve, when Fifth Avenue reaches peak crowds.
These planned breaks help Saks manage visitor flow and maintain safety during the busiest events of the season. On all other days, the show will run every ten minutes from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Visitors will have many chances to see the dazzling display across the store’s historic façade.
To enjoy the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 at its best, plan around these blackout dates. Weekdays and earlier evenings in late November or early December usually bring lighter crowds. In contrast, weekends closer to Christmas tend to be the busiest.
The official return of the show this year guarantees one of New York City’s most magical free attractions. By checking the blackout dates, you ensure you won’t miss this unforgettable experience.
Tips for the Ultimate Christmas Experience in New York
To enjoy the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 at its best, timing is key. Fifth Avenue fills quickly during December, especially on weekends, so choosing the right moment makes a big difference.
Arrive just after sunset, around 5:00 p.m., for lighter crowds and better viewing spots. Another smart option is visiting later in the evening, after 9:30 p.m., when foot traffic begins to thin. Since the show repeats every ten minutes until 11:00 p.m., you will still have many chances to enjoy it.
Because the event is outdoors, prepare for cold weather. Wear warm layers, gloves, and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk between Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and other nearby attractions. Keep your phone warm in an inside pocket to preserve battery life for photos and videos.
With its official return in 2025, planning ahead helps you capture the full magic of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show. A little preparation ensures you enjoy this iconic free holiday attraction in Midtown Manhattan without the stress of heavy crowds.
Where to See the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show in Manhattan
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 takes place at 611 Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. The best views are found directly along this iconic stretch of the city.
The most popular vantage point is the Channel Gardens, where the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the white angels frame the Saks façade. From here, you enjoy a wide, unobstructed view of the entire show. Another excellent perspective comes from the west side of Fifth Avenue in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This angle is less crowded and offers a diagonal view, perfect for photos without the pressure of heavy crowds.
If you prefer to feel the energy up close, stand directly in front of the Saks flagship store. Here, the music and lights surround you at full intensity, making it ideal for videos and close-up shots of the illuminated façade.
Each location offers a different experience, yet all capture the magic of the Saks Light Show’s official return in 2025. For an even more festive evening, pair the show with a walk to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, which stands directly across the street and remains one of the most famous holiday landmarks in the world.
Is the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show Free or Do You Need a Ticket?
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 is completely free to attend. Its accessibility has always been part of the charm, making it one of the most beloved Christmas traditions in New York City. No tickets or reservations are required. Visitors can simply gather along the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue and enjoy the dazzling lights and music.
Because the event is free, you should stay alert to scams. Some unofficial websites or individuals may claim to sell tickets, but these offers are not legitimate. Access to the Saks Light Show is always open to the public at no cost.
This accessibility also makes the experience easy to combine with nearby attractions. Within minutes you can see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, explore the Bryant Park Winter Village, or admire the decorations at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Together, these landmarks create one of the most festive holiday itineraries in Midtown Manhattan.
With the official return in 2025, the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show once again welcomes both locals and visitors from around the world. It remains one of the most magical free experiences of Christmas in New York.
Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Windows 2025: Unveiling Date and Ceremony
The unveiling of the Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Windows 2025 is one of the most anticipated holiday events in New York City. This year, the celebration is expected on Monday, November 24, 2025, the same evening as the opening of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show. The ceremony usually begins around 7:00 p.m. and marks the official start of Saks’ holiday festivities.
Each year, the unveiling draws huge crowds as Saks reveals a series of imaginative and beautifully designed windows. The event often features fireworks, live performances, and even celebrity appearances. Together with the light show, it creates a full evening of holiday magic on Fifth Avenue.
Because this event is so popular, plan to arrive early. The sidewalks around 611 Fifth Avenue fill quickly as visitors gather to see the displays light up for the first time. Reaching the area several hours in advance gives you the best chance at a good viewing spot.
The Saks Christmas Windows 2025, paired with the official return of the Saks Light Show, guarantee one of the most festive experiences in Midtown Manhattan. For an unforgettable evening, combine the unveiling with a walk to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree.
Insider Tip: View the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree from Saks Fifth Avenue
After enjoying the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025, step inside the Saks flagship store at 611 Fifth Avenue for a hidden perspective. Take the escalator to the upper floors, where you’ll find an overlooked view of Midtown’s most famous holiday landmarks.
From these windows, you can see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the glowing Channel Gardens angels, and the bustle of Fifth Avenue from above. This insider vantage point gives you a peaceful break from crowded sidewalks while still delivering breathtaking scenery.
Combining this elevated view with the official return of the Saks Light Show creates one of the most memorable Christmas experiences in New York. It’s the perfect way to capture the magic from a different angle, whether you want photos or simply a moment of calm.
To complete your evening, walk to nearby highlights such as the Bryant Park Winter Village and the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree. Together, these attractions prove why Midtown Manhattan is the best place to celebrate Christmas in New York in 2025.
Conclusion: Experience the Best of Midtown’s Christmas Magic in 2025
The official return of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2025 confirms Midtown Manhattan as the best place to celebrate Christmas in New York. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the glowing angels of the Channel Gardens and the dazzling Saks Christmas Windows, this area overflows with festive traditions that create lasting memories.
For the easiest way to see it all, join our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour with Papillon Christmas Restaurant. In just one morning, you check off nearly every iconic Midtown holiday sight. Highlights include Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue windows, Saks Fifth Avenue, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree. The tour combines bus and walking segments, giving you the perfect balance of comfort and exploration.
The finale is unforgettable. We take you straight to your reserved table at Papillon NYC, one of the most beautiful Christmas restaurants in the city. Normally, Papillon does not take reservations and wait times stretch for hours in December. With us, you skip the line and enjoy guaranteed access in a festive, decorated setting.
With Saks officially bringing back its world-famous light show, 2025 is the perfect year to experience the very best of Midtown’s Christmas magic. Let us guide you through it all and make your New York holiday truly unforgettable.
Author: Written by Dora Formica on behalf of My Christmas in New York
