During December, Manhattan’s 5th Avenue is booming, and people want to indulge in holiday fun. Families, couples, and friends brave large crowds to see the Rockefeller Center tree lit up, go ice skating at Bryant Park and shop in the winter village. A very popular attraction for New Yorkers and tourists alike is Saks on 5th’s annual light show. Each year since 2004, the famous department store displays a unique array of lights, filled with animations and music. A 20-year tradition, Saks has managed to come up with a more exciting spectacle each year and has remained a definite crowd-pleaser. 

This time-honored tradition was put on pause this year due to insufficient funds. A spokesperson for Saks said earlier this year that it has been a “challenging year for luxury.” Saks’ sales are lower this year, meaning that the corporation must budget more wisely; that entails cutting out the light show. “For some time, we have contemplated changing our approach,” the spokesperson said. This year, they are focusing more on their iconic window displays in an attempt to revitalize the classy and desirable luxury lifestyle that Saks sells to customers through their retail goods. Their 12 window displays this year feature mannequins showing off brands such as Prada and Valentino, while their signature golden Saks logo lights up every wall section in between. It is unclear whether the light show will ever make a reappearance, or if it is gone for good.

While this has been a certain disappointment to people coming from far and near in search of classic New York City Christmas entertainment, other department stores are continuing their own light display traditions. Stores such as Cartier, Bergdorf’s, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany’s are presenting striking light spectacles throughout the holiday season.