Saks Fifth Avenue Announces Cancellation of Light Show Amidst Sales Struggles

Saks Fifth Avenue patrons are sure to be disappointed as the worldwide retailer announced the cancellation of its infamous Christmas light show in New York City.

Saks confirmed to NBC New York that it will not be putting up its usual light show on the Fifth Avenue façade of the property over the holiday season.

“For some time we have contemplated changing our approach. We will not be doing a light show this year, as we’ve changed our approach to the holiday windows,” a Saks Fifth Avenue spokesperson told the outlet in a statement.

Saks and Dior collaborated on 2023’s holiday light spectacular and windows. Actress Jennifer Lawrence went to the launch of the light show last year, which featured a fireworks performance.

The New York Post, meanwhile, suspects that Saks Fifth Avenue canceled its light show this year as a cost-cutting measure. Instead of the light show, a representative for Saks told the outlet, “In our 100th year, which also marks the anniversary of the flagship, we are celebrating the season by honoring the architectural significance of this iconic building, elegantly illuminating the façade and framing the holiday windows, as well as highlighting the fashion for which Saks Fifth Avenue is known.”

The department store chain also “acknowledged that it has been a challenging year for luxury, and, like others, we are carefully managing our business to ensure the company is best positioned for the future.”

The windows this year will now display “outstanding pieces from the top names in luxury,” according to the representative, as well as colorful snowflakes, silver harlequin flooring and dichroic vinyl.”

Saks Fifth Avenue Out of the Season — But Macy’s Is Still Celebrating

While Saks Fifth Avenue has taken a step back from the season, Macy’s still went all in, recently announcing this year’s lineup for the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

In a company press release, Will Coss, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade executive producer, stated, “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season for millions of live spectators and viewers across the country. A dedicated team of artisans and production experts at Macy’s Studios work year-round to bring this experience to life. This year’s 98th Macy’s Parade will create awe with unforgettable character balloons, one-of-a-kind floats and the world-class entertainment only Macy’s can deliver.”