After taking a break last year, Saks Fifth Avenue has relit its holiday spark with the return of the storied light show and window displays at the Midtown Manhattan flagship store. Yesterday at 7 p.m., the stretch of Fifth Avenue between East 49th Street and 50th was illuminated with the "Holiday Your Way" campaign, as reported by CBS News New York. The show's soundtrack featured a vibrant medley, including Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime," and an unexpected choice, Rihanna's "Diamonds," to which the thousands of lights danced and shimmered.
In a statement obtained by CBS News New York, Kristin Maa, chief marketing officer for Saks Global, expressed the significance of the event: "Tonight marks a truly special moment for Saks Fifth Avenue as we bring back our holiday light show and officially usher in the season." The shows are set to mesmerize passersby every 10 minutes nightly, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. through early January. Last year, Saks Fifth Avenue hit a chord with New Yorkers by announcing the show's cancellation for the first time in two decades, supposedly to both save costs and honor their century-old building. However, this year, spectators who had waited perhaps a bit too patiently for hours, were thrilled to see the tradition brought back to the city's holiday repertoire.
The evening also saw the Radio City Rockettes take center stage with their signature kick line and sparkling red costumes, as noted by Fashion Week Daily. The Saks Fifth Avenue holiday event didn't stop at just a light show; window displays feature a journey through festive New York City scenes, from an Enchanted Atrium to a snowy Winter's Dream in Central Park, and an homage to the Rockettes' centennial with displays of their dazzling costumes and sketches from notable designers.
Adding to the city's festive attractions, visitors can enjoy the holiday light show and then make their way to other seasonal highlights, such as the world-renowned Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and Bryant Park's annual Bank of America Winter Village, open through March 1, 2026. The energy and buzz surrounding these traditions make it apparent why for so many, like Courtney Jackson, who told CBS News New York, "I've been a big fan for my entire life," that the Saks Fifth Avenue holiday light show's return is more than just a marketing campaign—it's a celebration of community and the shared joy of the season.
