Our first visit to the Bryant Park Tree Lighting, has now marked the beginning of a tradition for our family. We absolutely adored The Lights Before Christmas, a gorgeous holiday show on ice that takes place on the rink featuring a cast of world-renowned skaters.
The Tree Lighting SKATE-tacular is an original holiday tale (written specifically for Bryant Park!) about a very special family on the night before Christmas.The show celebrates light personified into a cast of memorable characters. A perfect family story – it teaches that giving what we can, no matter how small, matters. The story also shows us how we collectively shine brighter when we all allow our inner lights to shine.
Internationally acclaimed figure skaters perform as some of the story’s characters, for a memorable Skate-tacular performance your family will never forget.
Tree Lighting Skate-tacular honors the efforts of (RED) and their mission to eradicate AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa. The spectacular holiday event was made possible by Bank of America.
The skaters performed to an incredible live music played by the swinging New York City big band, Lapis Luna.
Let the show begin!
Acclaimed choreographer, actress and television dance personality Carrie Ann Inaba kicked off the holiday celebration as the narrator of the original story created specifically for Bryant Park.
Kimmie Meissner, former Olympian and 2006 World Champion skater, kicked off the festivities.
Internationally acclaimed figure skater Johnny Weir, two-time Olympian and first-ever Winter Village Skating Ambassador, performed as Santa.
Johnny’s “Santa Baby” performance was theatrical, animated and a crowd favorite!
The world’s top-ranked ice dancing team, Kaitlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje, played the role of everyday New Yorkers brilliantly.
The Haydenettes, the reigning 24-time U.S. National Champion synchronized skating team, performed their famous dance technique, complicated footwork, and creative choreography.
Watching the groups precision formations was spectacular.
The lights dimmed… let the countdown begin!
The beautiful 50-foot Norway Spruce was lit with a sparkling fireworks display,
What a celebration!
Extra light up stars were handed out to all the little guests.
What a star studded performance!
After, the rink opened to the public for skating, accompanied by Lapis Luna performing an additional hour-long concert of holiday favorites and glittering standards.
We had to walk over to see the star of the show. The beautifully decorated tree is a must see!
One of our favorite holiday family events,
filled with moments we will never forget.
Bryant Park’s famous holiday offerings have just begun. From the incredible Winter Village Shops, famous (free admission!) Skating Rink, and carousel ride fun – there’s something for everyone.
The perfect park to celebrate a New York City Christmas. More on Bryant Park HERE
