When Do the Christmas Lights Come Down in New York?: Your Fast-Track Guide to New York's Holiday Decor Schedule

In New York City, the dazzling Christmas lights and holiday displays are a central part of the winter experience, attracting both locals and tourists to marvel at the city’s festive transformation. Typically, these holiday lights begin to appear in mid-November, reaching their peak at the end of November and throughout December. The timeline for taking them down varies depending on location and property—here’s what you should know:

Major public displays—such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and nearby Fifth Avenue decorations—remain up through New Year’s Day and are usually taken down in early January. The Rockefeller Center tree, for example, is usually on display until about January 6th (Epiphany or Three Kings' Day). Large department stores and most popular window displays also come down during the first or second week of January.

In residential neighborhoods and smaller commercial areas, the lights and decorations often linger a bit longer—sometimes until mid-January—depending on community preferences and individual schedules. By the third week of January, nearly all of New York’s Christmas lights are taken down, signaling the true end of the festive season and allowing for a smooth transition into the new year.

As a designer often working with both holiday and everyday décor, I always encourage clients to plan their own light takedown according to the vibe they want for their space. If you want to extend the warmth of holiday ambiance, choose lighting and elements that smoothly transition from festive to winter-chic. Some of my clients use innovative AI interior design tools to visualize how seasonal décor can seamlessly shift into their home’s regular aesthetic.

Tips 1:

If you’re inspired by NYC’s iconic displays and want to create a similar effect at home, start with programmable LED lights and smart timers—these are easy to install, energy-efficient, and can be integrated into your year-round décor for a touch of post-holiday charm. Also, consider reusing neutral-colored lights as part of your winter or even springtime decorating schemes.

FAQ

Q: When is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree taken down?

A: The Rockefeller Center Tree is usually removed around January 6th, coinciding with the end of the holiday season.

Q: Do Christmas lights in private NYC neighborhoods stay up longer?

A: Sometimes, yes. Residential areas may keep their lights up until mid-January or even later, depending on local traditions and preferences.

Q: When do store window holiday displays get removed?

A: Department store displays, such as those on Fifth Avenue, typically come down in the first or second week of January.

Q: Are there any public light displays that remain past January?

A: Most major public displays are removed by mid-January, but some small parks or neighborhoods might keep lights up longer for winter ambiance.

Q: Can I get design help to transition my holiday décor into the new year?

A: Absolutely! You can use digital tools or consult with designers to repurpose or reimagine your décor for year-round appeal.