By Elvis Duran
There is nothing Manhattanites dread more than the clogging chaos that explodes during the holidays here in New York City. People travel from all over the world to, basically, get in our way. Are we missing something? Tourists pay top dollar for high season flights and rooms. Hmm. Maybe we’re taking something for granted here. Let’s review what we already know:
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Where else can you see 30,000 lights on one Christmas tree…while being pushed and shoved by 30,000 visitors trying to take pictures? Ah! The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, which will officially be lit on Wednesday, November 28. And, you , too, need to be lit to endure the crowds. Even though we don’t need to be there for the ceremony, let’s all make it a point to “revisit” the tree this year. After all, it was yanked out of someone’s yard (like a bad tooth) for our enjoyment.
La Maison Du Chocolat
While you are “tree adjacent,” indulge in a cup of hot chocolate from La Maison Du Chocolat. It is truly one of the world’s best tasting chocolate treats…and the buzz will catapult you to the box office at…
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular
How some of these gals have held it together for so many years is one of our city’s grand mysteries. The senior female flight attendants at American Airlines should take note. This high kicking, ultimate holiday tradition is celebrating its 85th anniversary! How many of the dancers have made it this long? A few, probably. The Rockettes are so gorgeous, the sets are colorful and, whoa! When they roll out that loud pipe organ that accompanies the Christmas sing along, even our Jewish friends can’t help but belt out the carols. Gather your friends and GO! Then…
Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays
Take a stroll down Fifth Ave. and ooh and ahh at the many holiday themed windows. These display designers battle it out every year to see who can make the passersby squeal the loudest. “Look, mama. A live sheep in drag!” I’m excited to share with you that I will be co-hosting the annual holiday window unveiling at Henri Bendel with Eric Trump on Thursday, November 15th. A portion of the proceeds of sales will benefit the Eric Trump Foundation, on behalf of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I hope you can join us for the festivities! Bring your own sheep. For more details please visit elvisduran.com
FAO Schwarz
Tourists get out of my way! This is our city and our official toy store. Impress the Europeans with your knowledge, like how you pronounce the store’s name. “No, it’s SHCWARZZZZ, not SCHWARTZZZZ. NO ‘T’. They’ll think you’re a pompous NY’er…and you are! It’s alright. FAO Schwarz is the oldest toy store in the U.S., established in 1862. Seeing the life size stuffed animals, games, and huge piano keyboard on the floor, made famous in the movie BIG, is so fun! And those real, live toy soldiers that squeak around in need of a dose of WD-40: a little creepy but festive! Be a kid again. Visit FAO…THEN
Wollman Rink in Historic Central Park
How strong are your ankles? Go for a romantic skate on the Rink. Holding your loved one’s hand as you skate around on the ice is fabulous. Then, when you fall on your butt, bring ‘em down with you. Everyone will point and laugh. You’ll LOVE it! Stay on the railing and you’ll be fine. No need to wear ruffles and rhinestones. Leave that to Johnny Weir.
Let’s get out and reclaim our holiday treasure of a city. What isn’t there to love? The traffic, the prices, the crowds, the smell... •
