Hi friends, welcome back! Can you believe Christmas is in less than two weeks? I’ve got the final set of windows to show you today and I think you’re going to like them. Compared to the department stores on Fifth Avenue, Macys always tries to capture the wonder and nostalgic feeling of Christmas. This year the theme is “The Most Wonderful Stories Start Here” and the windows look back at Macy’s history from the first window display in 1874 (at the 14th Street location, the current building dates to 1902), the first Thanksgiving Day parade in 1926, and being featured in a classic Christmas film. Each window in Herald Square has a little story and some kind of movement in the design. They were setting up their holiday market both times I went so I didn’t get a great picture of the exterior on Herald Square. I like the idea of the holiday market, but it makes the sidewalk by the windows so crowded.
“The most wonderful stories start here, it’s true, the day Macy’s opened, Santa already knew. He walked through the doors and discovered the place, where Christmas would live, filled with warmth and grace. A home away from home beyond compare, the moment he knew he’d return every year.” The book moved up and down in this window.
“Macy’s rose at Herald Square, a palace of delight, the world’s largest store, a breathtaking sight. Toys climbed to the rafters, treats lined every wall, the destination where Christmas answered every call. Families journeyed from far and wide to be near, where memories are made and held so dear.” The three blocks spun around to show different facades and the interior of the store.
“The very first window glowed, radiant and bright displays that transformed the darkest winter night. Families stopped in their tracks, breathless at the sight, Christmas came alive behind the glass that night. A tradition began that would last through the years, bringing joy and wonder, holding families dear.” The Santa and lady in the sled glide along a circular track.
“Giants took to the November sky, balloons as tall as buildings floating by. The city lined the streets, faces turned above, a parade that fitted Thanksgiving with wonder and love. A tradition that brings millions together each year, creating moments of joy when loved ones gather here.” This window is my favorite!
“Mayc’s stepped onto the silver screen in black and white, a miracle unfolded under the courtroom light. One little girl proved Santa was real and true, teaching the world to dream the way children do. A film that made believing crystal clear, cherished and beloved with every passing year.” The film spun to show different scenes from Miracle on 34th Street.
“The most wonderful stories start here, it’s clear, the Macy’s star has guided us throughout the year. Now step into its glow, let your voice rise with cheer, you became the story this year, your joy reflected here A symbol of the season, shining bright and true, the star that keeps our tradition alive. Now shining just for you.” People seemed to enjoy their moment to shine with the karaoke.
On 34th Street Macys has some fun toy displays in their windows. Some of the windows are interactive games and were popular with kids and adults too.
I haven’t made it inside Macys yet, the Santa reservations are a hot commodity! So perhaps I’ll end this post with a to be continued… What did you think of the Macy’s windows? I thought they were very cute and festive. Next year is the 100th anniversary of the parade so I’m interested to see if they will make the windows extra special.
I love the nostalgic look of them, and guess its a preview of next year’s decorations. Hope Violet gets to meet Macy’s Santa. Maggie
They did a great job this year! I’m sure they’re already planning next years windows.
Wonderfully nostralgic
I agree!
Oh I do really like these!
They did a great job!
OK, so Macy’s get the importance of Christmas. Love their window displays and would have expected no less from them. It was like our longest running department store (The Bay) used to do. Don’t mess with success. Happy Friday Lyssy. Allan
They sure do! I don’t think I’ve ever been disappointed in Macy’s window displays. It’s fun when a store always gets it right.
I really liked Macy’s windows this year and what fun that some are interactive. Next year they will definitely be pulling out all the stops for their centenary! Another great, festive post Lyssy.
They do a great job of making the windows fun for everyone! I am enjoying sharing all the festiveness around the city 🙂
Are the windows with children’s toy displays part of the interactive buttons? Such cute displays for passersby. I do like the Macy’s ideas. They’re not as robotic as the ones you had photos of at your last stop. Thanks for sharing!
Just the first window with the buttons and I think there was one more I might’ve missed getting a pic of. You’re right, Macy’s windows are a lot more warm and inviting than others.
I just walked past these windows the other day and was kind of disappointed by them- maybe they weren’t totally set up yet? They definitely look more fun in your photographs! I’ll have to swing by for a second look.
I love these Christmas window displays. I think as a child I would have loved to come and play in one of these displays full of toys.
Macy’s holiday windows in NYC are certainly iconic! Love all the lights and festive cheer as we head into the holiday season, full-steam ahead!
I love this display, and the nod to nostalgia and history makes it even more lovely. NYC sure knows how to do Christmas 🙂
Beautiful! Merry Christmas to you and Jon and Violet!
The windows are nice (and nostalgic!) but I got a little stuck on the big “Give Love” adornment of the building. What they’re really trying to get you to do – obviously – is “Give Something from Macy’s” 😉
Love the window displays. You’ll have to report back in a year for the 100th anniversary of the parade. Hope you’re all ready for Christmas! Hard to believe it’s only 10 days away!