I can honestly say, this is a "Do it before you die" task that I have been trying to accomplish. It should be simple since I already live in New York, so that gives me a great advantage. To watch the tree lighting on the actual day seems like a mission. I've been settling for viewing the tree on other occasions, which is something you should do, But somehow, every time I try to go (On day one) it never happens. Why?
1. Crowds Crowds Crowds: I can't begin to explain how crowded this event gets. People really line up at 6:00am to secure their spot. By the afternoon, streets in the surrounding area start to close and barricades are placed to direct pedestrian traffic.
And then, all hell breaks loose. As showtime approaches, it becomes impossible to penetrate Midtown Manhattan. Last time I went, the area was closed off by 5:00pm. Police officers said the next group of people allowed to view the tree would be at 1:00am. Uhh... that is kind of late. Yes, they had to wait until everyone already inside the Rockefeller Center area left so a new crowd could enter.
2. Weather: This time of the year in NYC gets very cold. A few years ago, it was almost in the negative digits. To be standing in one place for a long period of time in frigid weather does not sound like a good time to me.
3. You miss all the TV stuff: Unless you were a crazy person and got there early, you won't get front row seats. In the hussle and bussle of going through crowds or waiting to find a spot, you miss everything. Usually, there are some great performers at this event. It's fun to watch on television with the family, rather than missing out everything live.
But, you just have to do it. People I know who have done it call this a great New York accomplishment. To watch the big tree light up for the first time is one of those New York moments you see in movies. One day, I have to make it happen.
Have you seen the tree lighting? Would you go through this madness to see it?
Comments (3)
No, I will probably go back to New York to see these lights.
I haven't. But I have been in NYC at Christmastime, and it was lovely. :) I probably won't have a reason to go back to NYC anytime soon, as my BFF has moved from NY to MN. Blah.
It would be nice, but I don't think I'd want to stand in a massive crowd of people to see it. Who knows, maybe one day though!