LIM College

Between the tourists filling Rockefeller Center, surely to flood the lengths of Fifth Avenue, and the decadent array of festively adorned evergreens you are sure to encounter inside any building on the block - this city screams Christmas, and the holidays have never been so close while remaining so seemingly distant.

New York City is one of the most beautiful places to experience the magic of this holiday season. From the tree-lighting at Rockefeller Center to the timely orchestrated dancing snowflakes projected on the storefront of Saks Fifth Avenue - we've collectively created a completely marketed adaptation of the festive holiday season, all while preserving the genuine magic that humbly nuzzles itself into the soft spot of even the Scrooge-est of all New Yorkers' hearts.

As college students here in the heart of New York City, there always seems to be one lingering catch in light of the most irreplaceable and once in a life time opportunities that cross our paths - the money factor. I mean, we're college students after all! The majority of us spend our days with a full workload at school, as well as a job and possibly an internship to boot. With sky-high price levels for even the bare essentials - dropping a chunk of cash for an exclusive holiday festivity is probably last on our list of necessities or even desires.

This season you can scoot a few "must have" holiday experiences up on your list without breaking your bank! Don't overlook the radius of your everyday stomping grounds. Stroll through Grand Central on your way to classes and check out the annual Holiday Market for some one-of-a-kind gift ideas. Similar holiday fairs can be stumbled upon if you find yourself near Union Square, Bryant Park, Brooklyn Flea or even Columbus Circle.



Now, if you're looking for a bit more activity, head over to Rockefeller Center to take a gander at the captivating and world-renowned tree. As it drips with tinsel and vibrant lights, it's sure to hold your gaze and make you snap a few photos for nostalgia down the road. Next stop, ice skating! In Midtown you can take a spin on the ice right below the tree at Rockefeller or over in Bryant Park for just a little under $15. (Free if you bring your own skates!) Be sure to scope out the window displays along Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue for some of the most ornate and impressive orchestrations of the holiday season. Tailored skillfully by the absolute best in the visual merchandising business, these masterpieces are the visual gems of the industry's seasonal presentations. For the best eye-candy, take a stroll by my all-time favorite, the forever classically chaotic and aesthetically pleasing masterpieces that are the holiday window displays at Bergdorf Goodman.

My genuine appreciation and gratitude for the existence of such a beautifully inspiring city is endless. Whichever holiday you may celebrate, let it be full of bliss and gratitude. I extend my best wishes to you and yours during this magical holiday season.