Holidays Under the Stars at the Time Warner Center (now known as the Deutsche Bank Center) is one of New York City’s most dazzling holiday displays. Located in the upscale Shops at Columbus Circle, this annual event features a stunning light display set to festive music, creating a magical and festive atmosphere perfect for the holiday season. It’s a free, indoor holiday attraction that draws both locals and tourists looking for a seasonal spectacle.
Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Holidays Under the Stars at Time Warner Center.
Overview of Holidays Under the Stars
- Location: Time Warner Center (now Deutsche Bank Center), 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019, at the southwest corner of Central Park.
- Dates: Typically runs from late November through early January. The display is turned on daily.
- Hours: The stars light up every day from 5 PM to 11 PM, with a synchronized light and music show that occurs every half hour.
- Admission: Free.
What to Expect at Holidays Under the Stars
The Star Display
At the heart of Holidays Under the Stars are twelve massive, LED-illuminated stars that hang from the 75-foot high ceiling in the Time Warner Center’s Great Room. These stars, which are each 14 feet in diameter, change colors and twinkle in sync with holiday music, creating a mesmerizing light show.
- Light Shows: The stars are illuminated in vibrant hues, including red, blue, purple, and gold, and they pulse and change in time with the music.
- Music Synchronization: The light show is synchronized to holiday music, adding to the festive feel. The music varies from traditional Christmas tunes to more modern holiday hits, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere.
The stars can be viewed from all levels of the mall, but one of the best vantage points is from the balconies, where you can watch the full effect of the stars lighting up the space.
Indoor Holiday Ambiance
Unlike many of New York’s outdoor holiday displays, Holidays Under the Stars is held indoors, making it an ideal activity for chilly winter days. The luxury shopping environment of the Shops at Columbus Circle enhances the experience, with upscale stores and restaurants providing a backdrop to the dazzling display.
- Perfect for Photos: The stunning stars provide a great opportunity for holiday photos. The reflections from the glass and polished surfaces of the mall create an especially magical effect during the evening.
Nearby Holiday Attractions
The Holidays Under the Stars display is centrally located in Columbus Circle, close to several other popular holiday attractions in New York City. You can easily combine your visit with these nearby festive destinations:
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- What it is: A European-style outdoor holiday market located just outside the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle.
- Why visit: The market features vendors selling handmade crafts, holiday gifts, and seasonal foods like hot chocolate, crepes, and artisanal snacks. It’s a perfect stop for holiday shopping or a quick bite before or after viewing the stars.
Central Park
- What it is: Just steps away from Time Warner Center, Central Park offers beautiful winter scenery and several holiday-themed activities.
- Why visit: Take a stroll through the park, visit the Wollman Rink for ice skating, or simply enjoy the festive ambiance of New York’s iconic green space during the holidays.
Lincoln Center Christmas Tree
- What it is: Lincoln Center is located a few blocks north of Columbus Circle and features a beautifully decorated Christmas tree during the holiday season.
- Why visit: Take a short walk to see the tree and perhaps catch a holiday performance at one of Lincoln Center’s famous venues, like the New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker.
Dining and Shopping at the Shops at Columbus Circle
While visiting Holidays Under the Stars, take the opportunity to explore the luxury shopping and dining options available at the Shops at Columbus Circle.
Dining Options
The Time Warner Center is home to several upscale restaurants and casual dining options, many with stunning views of Central Park.
- Per Se: A world-renowned, Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Thomas Keller, offering a fine dining experience.
- Momofuku Noodle Bar: A popular spot for ramen and Asian-inspired cuisine, perfect for a casual meal.
- Bouchon Bakery: For a sweet treat, stop by Bouchon Bakery for holiday pastries, cookies, and coffee.
- Porter House Bar and Grill: An upscale steakhouse offering classic American cuisine and excellent views.
Shopping
If you’re in the mood for holiday shopping, the Shops at Columbus Circle offer a range of high-end retailers and specialty shops, making it a great place to pick up gifts or treat yourself to something special.
- Luxury Brands: Shop at brands like Michael Kors, Coach, Swarovski, and Tumi.
- Specialty Shops: Explore unique gifts from Diptyque (luxury candles and fragrances) or Williams Sonoma (kitchenware and gourmet foods).
- Holiday Decor and Gifts: Many shops offer festive decor, ornaments, and holiday-themed products, perfect for last-minute gifts or souvenirs.
Tips for Visiting Holidays Under the Stars
Best Times to Visit
- Evening Visits: The best time to experience Holidays Under the Stars is in the evening, as the light display is more magical after dark. Plan to visit between 5 PM and 11 PM when the synchronized light shows occur every 30 minutes.
- Weekdays: If possible, visit during the week when the crowds are lighter, especially earlier in the holiday season. Weekends can be busier, particularly in December.
Take Advantage of the Warm Setting
Since the display is indoors, Holidays Under the Stars is a great option for colder winter days when outdoor activities may not be as appealing. The heated space provides a cozy environment to enjoy the lights without worrying about the weather.
Combine with Nearby Attractions
Given its location in Columbus Circle, you can easily combine your visit to Holidays Under the Stars with other holiday activities in Midtown or the Upper West Side. Ice skating at Wollman Rink, shopping at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, or walking through Central Park are all nearby options.
Getting to Time Warner Center
By Subway
- A, C, B, D, 1 trains: Stop at 59th Street-Columbus Circle, which brings you directly to the Time Warner Center.
By Bus
- Several bus routes, including the M5, M7, M10, M20, and M104, have stops near Columbus Circle.
By Car
- Parking in the area can be difficult and expensive, especially during the holiday season. There are parking garages nearby, but it’s generally easier and more cost-effective to use public transportation.
Conclusion
Holidays Under the Stars at the Time Warner Center is a must-see holiday attraction in New York City, offering a dazzling indoor light display that’s perfect for a cozy, festive outing. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on a holiday shopping trip, the magical star display combined with luxury shopping and dining options creates a memorable holiday experience. With its convenient location near other holiday attractions like the Columbus Circle Holiday Market and Central Park, it’s an ideal stop during the Christmas season.
