The holiday season is officially creeping up on us, and Hudson Yards is going big for its seventh annual ‘Shine Bright’ kickoff.
If you’re looking for a festive (and completely free) way to get into the winter spirit, you’ll want to mark your calendar for Monday, November 16.
The Public Square & Gardens is hosting the second annual Vessel Lighting Ceremony.
Organizers are promising an even bigger and brighter celebration this year, complete with celebrity appearances and live music.
Unveiling an all-new light show
This year’s event features the highly anticipated debut of Vessel’s all-new light show. After the switch gets flipped, visitors are invited to explore the iconic landmark’s new interior holiday décor.
Make sure you bring your camera, because the centerpiece is a massive 18-foot-tall illuminated mistletoe installation. It’s designed to be the ultimate festive backdrop for your seasonal photos with friends and family.
Since this is a major free event, you can expect the crowds to be quite heavy, so pack your patience along with your winter coat.
Live entertainment and special guests
The evening will be packed with high-energy performances. The ceremony is headlined by Anthony Ramos, the Grammy-winning artist and Emmy-nominated actor known for his roles in Hamilton, In the Heights, and Twisters.
The entertainment lineup also includes the Brooklyn United Marching Band, bringing their signature HBCU-style performance to the plaza, and the NY Vocal Collective, a multi-genre choral ensemble singing pop, R&B, and contemporary hits.
The entire evening is hosted by 106.7 Lite FM’s Helen Little.
Everything you need to know
Here are the essential details for planning your visit:
- 📍 Hudson Yards Public Square and Gardens (20 Hudson Yards, between 30th and 33rd Street)
- 📆 Monday, November 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Media check-in begins at 5:30 p.m.)
- 💵 Free and open to the public
- More info: Vessel will operate on a special schedule from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and reopen post-ceremony from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- 🎟️ Reserve standard tickets
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