The Definitive Guide to New York Citys 2014 Holiday Window Displays

Since Macys sparked the Christmas window tradition in the early 1870s, New York Citys most iconicdepartment stores have unveiled bigger and better window displays each holiday season.

This year, the themes are wide-ranging and every aesthetic from minimalist art deco to over-the-top futurism is represented. During peak hours, more than 10,000 people pass the windows, according to Macys. With our handy guide of every holiday hot spot from Macys to Bloomies, you can be the best-informed of the crowd.

1. Macys, 151 W. 34th St., at Seventh Avenue

Going down in history as the store where the real, live Kris Kringle first served as Santa in AMiracle on 34th Street in 1947 and the first department store to transform its window displays for the month of December, Macys has to be the first stop on any Christmas window tour.

The theme at Macys Herald Square this year is Santas Journey to the Stars. While passing by the stores sixwindows, youll see the tale of Alex, a young boy with a magic telescope, who experiences Christmas on other planets with his dog, Bella. The story is told in animated form with the assistance of high-definition video monitors.

Designed by Roya Sullivan, the display is made from 85 percent foam, with sculptures specially created to resemble the surfaces of the moon and stars. Ms. Sullivan hopes thisyears windows will symbolize the power of magical thinking and the tradition of storytelling We have combined our homage to todays tech-savvy child with a nostalgic dream to travel through space with Santa.

If space travel isnt your thing, the store will also be recreating Yes, Virginia on the 34th Street block. Thewindows are on display from Nov. 20 through Dec. 26.

2. Lord & Taylor, 424 Fifth Ave., at 39th Street

Head east and turn left on Fifth Avenue and youll hit Lord & Taylor, where the windows explore the interiors of an enchanted mansion, to mark the 100th anniversary of Lord & Taylors Fifth Avenue building.

While looking at the displays, you will see the mythical mansions paintings come to life and its furnishings start to stir. Video technology will give the traditional sets a contemporary twist.

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The Definitive Guide to New York Citys 2014 Holiday Window Displays