Macy's Santaland NYC: When and How to See Santa at Herald Square in 2024

Jody Mercier's picture Submitted by Jody Mercier on

Santa is a busy man, so reservations are required to visit Santland at Macy's Herald Square in New York City in 2024. Photo by Marisa Iallonardo

There are few places to take pictures with Santa in New York City that compare with Macy's Santaland. It's a magical experience for tourists and natives alike during the Christmas season.

Macy's opens its 13,000-square-foot winter wonderland on Friday, November 29, 2024. Overflowing with holiday cheer from its live elves to an enchanted forest, animatronic toys, and a train display, Macy's Santaland 2024 is open daily through Christmas Eve: Tuesday, December 24, 2024.

As in previous years, visitors must book a FREE reservation to take pictures with Santa at Macy's Santaland, which requires some planning. Read on for everything you need to know about visiting Macy's Santaland 2024, and find more top picks for holiday fun in our Guide to Christmas and the Holidays in NYC, including the season's can't-miss Christmas activities for families.

Best Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows on Long Island

Jaime Sumersille's picture Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on

LuminoCity returns to Long Island's Eisenhower Park. Photo courtesy LuminoCity

For a touch of holiday magic on Long Island, it's hard to beat the glow of a spectacular Christmas lights display or holiday lights drive-thru.

While we really enjoy the immersive walk-through displays across Long Island, such as the Smithtown Historical Society's Holiday Trail of Lights or LuminoCity at Eisenhower Park, sometimes we prefer to grab our hot cocoa and set out on the road. Driving through the Town of Islip Holiday Lights or Jones Beach Magic of Lights Show has become an annual tradition that even my older kids anticipate.

However, this year we also can't wait to catch some new holiday lights attractions. Sayville Falls has transformed into a magical walk-through experience with its Light Show and Winter Garden. Plus, we found out that Clark Botanic Garden is bringing back its FREE Winter Wonderland Walk-Through.

Find all our top picks for holiday fun—including Long Island's best Christmas activities—in our Long Island Christmas Guide.

Best Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows near NYC

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on

The stunning Peace, Love, and Lights drive-thru at Bethel Woods returns for another season of bringing visitors joy.

If you're ready to add a little extra sparkle to the holiday season, take note: The tri-state area boasts some pretty spectacular Christmas lights and holiday lights drive-thrus where your crew can enjoy twinkling Christmas lights displays from the warmth, comfort, and safety of your car.

We've compiled a list of 14 must-see Christmas lights displays to drive through in New Jersey, Westchester, Long Island, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut that are guaranteed to bring smiles to your family's faces. So, pack some snacks, cue the Christmas music, and get ready to make some priceless holiday memories.

Find tons more ways to celebrate this season with those you love in our jam-packed Christmas Guide. Consider it our seasonal gift to you.

Pages