The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

There’s something magical about being in New York City during the chilly month of December. Street lights turn into Christmas décor, honking of car horns change into jingling of bells on side walk corners, and the grumpiness of strangers lurking on the street have a twinkle in their eye and awe in their smile.

Radio City Music Hall at 6 am

One of the world’s busiest cities transforms into a Christmas wonderland, altering the mindset of those who visit and inhabit the bustling neighborhood. Travelers amongst the streets are put into a holiday haze, in amazement of the magic before their eyes, while still acting as if they are on an important mission and have a place to be. People open their hearts to care for those less fortunate and their loved ones while being reminded of the true meaning behind the holiday.

My family has a tradition each year to travel from Long Island into the extraordinary city and watch the breathtaking Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. We make this venture via the Hampton Jitney and arrive at the city at the chilling hour of 6 am. Personally, this is my favorite part of the day, as it feels like you have Manhattan all to yourself. Nobody is pushing one another on the side walk and you can freely walk up and down 5thavenue, viewing each stores Christmas display without struggling to sneak a peek buried behind strangers. We also love to view the largest Christmas tree known to man at Rockefeller Center and share the moment just between us sans thousands of tourists.

My brother and I at Rockefeller Plaza

After attending the incredible performance, we always make sure to stop at Montana’s Bar and Grille before returning home. The restaurant places an emphasis on conserving the wilderness by remaining environmentally-friendly with paper straws and the best produce you could find. It is quite the popular place around lunchtime with businessmen as it offers healthy options such as bison meat in comparison to the average beef burger.

While New York City always has a special place in my heart, I am reminded of the reason behind it during this annual trip. Manhattan is truly like nowhere else in the world as its energy is unmatched, making me proud to say that I am a New Yorker.