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Saks Light Show Opening Ceremony in 2022 with Sir Elton John in New York

Saks Light Show 2024 Fifth Avenue: A Must-See NYC Attraction

The Saks Light Show 2024 on Fifth Avenue (611 5th Avenue) in Manhattan, New York, with its schedule, hours, and window unveilings, is one of the most important free holiday activities in NYC during the Christmas season. This attraction transforms the iconic Saks Fifth Avenue store into a winter wonderland, offering an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. In this article, we’ll provide all the details about the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show, including its lighting ceremony, schedule, and best vantage points and dates. Get ready to discover everything you need to know about the most famous Christmas light show: the Saks Light Show 2024 NYC.

Saks Light Show in New York during the Christmas Season

Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2024: The Most Magical Free Christmas Experience in Midtown Manhattan

The Saks Light Show 2024 is one of the best Christmas activities to enjoy in Manhattan during the 2024 holiday season. This attraction at 611 5th Avenue in New York City transforms Saks NYC, the iconic flagship store, into a mesmerizing winter wonderland with its captivating sounds and music. The free show in NYC is renowned for its elaborate displays, synchronized lights, and festive music that fill the air with holiday cheer.

Would you like to know more about the Holiday Season in New York? Then I suggest you reading my article about the Christmas in New York key dates & events. I have summarized all the most important things to do in NYC during the Holiday Season. These include, of course, the amazing free Light show at Saks Fifth Avenue.

The 2023 Saks Light Show in New York with sounds and music

Saks Lights Show Schedule 2024

The opening ceremony for the Christmas season will take place on Monday, November 25, 2024, just three days before Thanksgiving. This spectacular attraction marks the beginning of the Saks Light Show 2024 season, drawing crowds from around the world. Starting Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the schedule will feature non-stop performances, delighting visitors daily.

Each day, the show starts at 5 p.m. and lasts about 3 minutes, featuring 3 or 4 famous Christmas-themed songs. After each show, there is a 5-minute break before the next one starts. This intermittent show runs from 4:35 p.m. to 10:35 p.m., offering numerous opportunities to enjoy the spectacle. The Saks Light Show 2024 is meticulously timed to ensure that everyone has the chance to experience its magic, whether you’re a local or a tourist visiting New York City during the holiday season.

New York City doesn’t formally host a Santa Claus Parade on Christmas Day. Nevertheless, the dazzling lights and adornments along Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue render it the world’s most stunning destination to explore in December! During the 2024 show, expect dazzling lights, music, and animations. The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show 2024 promises to be a spectacular Christmas event!

Cars driving in Manhattan New York during the Christmas Season

Saks Fifth Avenue Location in NYC

Saks Fifth Avenue is located at 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA. This prime location places it right in front of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and next to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, making it a central spot for holiday festivities. The surrounding area is filled with other iconic New York attractions, enhancing the overall experience of visiting the Saks Light Show 2024.

Make sure you also visit the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree. It’s just behind St. Patrick Cathedral. In our opinion is one of the best Holiday Trees in NYC. We also include it in our Tour “My Christmas Morning in Manhattan”.

Saks Fifth Avenue Lights Show 2024 Dates in NYC

The 2024 iconic free show on the Fifth Avenue will officially start on Monday, November 25, 2024. The opening ceremony of this light show is always spectacular, with fireworks and special guests that add to the excitement. The show runs daily during the holiday season from November 26, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This extended schedule ensures that everyone has the opportunity to witness the enchanting Saks Light Show 2024.

When Does the Saks Fifth Avenue Lights Show Start?

The Saks Light Show 2024 starts every day at 4:35 p.m. and is offered regularly until 10:35 p.m. This schedule allows visitors to plan their visit around other holiday activities in the area. For instance, ice skating at Rockefeller Center or exploring the nearby festive decorations. If you are referring to the time of day, the show begins at 4:35 p.m. and continues with regular intervals until 10:35 p.m. However, if you are interested in the first date of the show, the opening ceremony is on November 25th. For more details about the opening ceremony, refer to the specific section of this blog. In fact, we have presented the Saks Light Show 2024 schedule and opening events.

Fireworks during the opening Ceremony of Saks Light Show

How Often Does the Saks Fifth Avenue Lights Show Play?

The Saks Light Show 2024 is repeated at regular intervals of about 10 minutes. If you arrive and the show is about to end, don’t worry—a new light show will begin just a few minutes later. This frequent repetition ensures that you won’t miss out on the spectacular display, no matter what time you arrive.

What Is the Duration of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show in NYC?

Each captivating Saks Light Show 2024 performance in 2024 is designed to dazzle audiences for approximately 5 minutes. From late afternoon to evening, the enchanting display of songs, lights, and synchronized choreography is repeated regularly. This duration is perfect for keeping visitors engaged and entertained while allowing them to enjoy other attractions in the area.

Gigantic castle of lights on the 5th Avenue in NYC during the Christmas Season

Blackout Dates of this Iconic NYC Free Attraction

The Saks Light Show 2024 will be available every day except for two dates in 2024: the day of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting and Christmas Eve. Therefore, in 2024, the Saks Fifth Avenue Show will not take place on December 4 and December 24. Planning your visit around these blackout dates will ensure you don’t miss the show.

Where is the Saks Lights Show 2024?

The exact address for the Saks Lights Show 2024 is 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States. Finding this iconic department store is very easy. It is located directly across the street from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. My recommendation is not only to enjoy the spectacular sounds show but also to step inside Saks 5th Avenue. One of the floors in this New York department store is dedicated to Christmas. Here you can find hundreds of Christmas decorations for your tree, home, or garden. Don’t miss the Saks Lights Show 2024 during your trip to New York.

View from the above of the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show in New York

Tips for the Ultimate Experience in New York at Christmas Time

To best enjoy the Saks Light Show 2024 at 611 5th Avenue, you have two main options to avoid the crowds: Go Just After Sunset (Dusk): The show starts at 4:35 PM, and the crowds are not yet too dense at this time. This is an excellent time to visit for those who prefer a quieter experience. Go Late in the Evening: After 9:30 PM, the crowd starts to thin out. The show continues until midnight, providing a quieter atmosphere to enjoy the spectacle.

Remember to dress warmly, as the show is outside and temperatures in NYC during the holiday season can be really cold. Layering your clothing and wearing comfortable shoes will enhance your experience, allowing you to enjoy the Saks Light Show 2024 without discomfort.

City of NYC with snow on the 5th Avenue

Where to See the Saks Light Show at 611 5th Avenue in Manhattan?

Here are three vantage points for viewing the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show in New York City:

  • Channel Garden: Across 5th Avenue from the department store, near the Channel Garden’s white angels or the 2024 Rockefeller Christmas tree for a wider angle. This is the most popular vantage point and offers a stunning view of the entire display.
  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral: On the west side of 5th Avenue in front of the cathedral, offering a good view at a more sideways angle with fewer crowds. This spot provides a unique perspective of the Saks Light Show 2024.
  • Underneath the Department Store: Position yourself in front of the entrance to see the show from below, offering a unique angle with fewer people around. This less crowded spot is perfect for capturing videos and photos.

Want to know more about the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree? I invite you to read the article of my blog I entirely dedicated to the symbol of NYC during the holiday season.

 

Is the Saks Light Show 2024 Free or Do I Need a Ticket?

The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show in NYC is completely free, as it has been every year. Be cautious and avoid any scams that attempt to sell tickets to the show. The free admission makes it accessible to everyone, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy this holiday tradition.

Front view of Saks Light Show on the 5th Avenue in NYC

Saks Fifth Avenue Windows: All the Info

Saks Fifth Avenue is synonymous with spectacular window displays during the Christmas season. Each year, Saks transforms its windows into true works of art with unique themes, complementing the enchanting Saks Light Show 2024. These window displays attract large crowds and are a beloved holiday tradition in New York City, adding to the overall magic of the iconic free experience.

Saks Christmas Windows Unveiling: Date and Ceremony

The unveiling of Saks Fifth Avenue’s Christmas windows will coincide with the opening ceremony of the Saks Light Show 2024 on November 25, 2024. The ceremony usually takes place at 7:00 PM. I advice you to arrive at least 3 hours in advance to get a good view. This event is highly anticipated and attended by thousands. In fact, this is one of the highlights of the holiday season and a perfect complement to the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show. Be sure to witness both the windows unveiling and the famous free show for a full festive experience.

The Holiday Show at Saks Fifth Avenue during Christmas in New York 2024

Operating Hours of the Flagship Store on 5th Avenue in Manhattan

The store at 611 5th Avenue is open seven days a week. The hours are: Monday through Saturday: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. After enjoying the Saks Light Show 2024, take some time to explore the flagship store, which offers a variety of holiday merchandise perfect for gift shopping. The operating hours ensure you can enjoy shopping before or after experiencing the iconic free show.

The gigantic castle in Midtown Manhattan NYC

Insider Tip: See the Rockefeller Center Tree from the Saks Fifth Avenue Vantage Point

Step inside the Saks Store and take the escalator to the higher floors for a stunning view of the Rockefeller Center Tree, the 5th Avenue traffic, and the Channel Garden’s White Angels. This insider tip offers a unique perspective that is often missed by many visitors. Combining this view with the Saks Light Show 2024 provides an unforgettable holiday experience, allowing you to see the best of New York City’s festive decorations from one vantage point.

Other Festive Attractions in NYC

Don’t forget to check out other festive attractions such as the Best Christmas Lights on 5th Avenue, the Plaza Hotel Christmas Tree, the Christmas in New York Store in Times Square. Also, the Bryant Park Winter Village and the Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink are a must. These attractions, along with the Saks Light Show 2024, make for a perfect holiday itinerary. Enjoy

2024 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in Manhattan New York during the lighting ceremony
Radio City Music Hall with its holiday tree is a symbol of Christmas in New York 2024
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour 2024 with Lucy Spata House in Brooklyn

Top 10 Christmas Things to do in NYC

Are you planning a Christmas Trip to New York? Get my Ultimate E-Guide on the Best 10 Things to Do in NYC this Holiday Season. The list is personally curated by Marco from My Christmas in New York.