by Cheryl Rickey

Created on: February 04, 2010

The holiday season in New York City starts with Santa's arrival at the conclusion of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The parade starts a festive time in New York City until it ends as ball drops in Times Square, ringing the the arrival of the New Year, 2010.

Extravagantly decorated department store windows, twinkling lights and the centerpiece of Rockefeller Plaza: the towering tree that casts a sparkling shadow over the much loved ice rink.

Traveling to New York City for the holidays is always a special treat. Get there easily by Amtrak, bus, car or plane, but make sure to make it a part of your holiday travel plans. It's busy and crowded, but it is truly a magical time of year in the Big Apple.

Here are ten highlights that travelers should not miss in New York City during the holiday season:

Macy's Thanksgiving Parade: The parade begins at 77th and Central Park West and ends at 34th Street and 7th Avenue on Thanksgiving Day. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a three-hour event is held in New York City starting at 9:00 a.m. EST on Thanksgiving Day. If you can't see it in person, it is broadcast live on NBC.

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in NYC is held in early December each year. Festivities begin around 6:45pm, and the tree lighting takes place at 8:55pm sharp. The tree is hoisted into place near the famous skating rink in mid-Manhattan. It is decorated with over 30,000 lights and is the tree lighting is a big, beautiful event in New York City.

Macy's Santaland: The Macyland Express takes families on amagical journey through the Enchanted Forest to the North Pole that culminates with a private visit with Santa. Along the way kids stare transfixed at the expansive Christmas scenes, marveling at the model train displays. The Macyland Express is at 151 W. 34th Street New York. For more information call 212-494-4495.

Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular: A sell-out and a must see for over 75 years, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an amazing theatrical event. The Christmas Spectacular runs from early November until the end of December each year. Radio City Music Hall: 1260 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020 Tickets: 212-494-4495

Holiday Store Window Displays: Well-decorated department store windows have become a hallmark of the holidays in New York City, eagerly awaited each year by tourists and locals alike. The stores plan all year for the unveilings each November, protecting the top-secret themes and

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