Santa reaches for the stars at Macy's

All systems are go and the holiday season is clear for takeoff at Macy's Herald Square in New York City.

That’s because this year’s Macy’s Christmas window display, “Santa’s Journey to the Stars,” traces the adventures of Alex, a young boy who receives a magical and mystical telescope that allows him to experience the wonder of Christmas on other planets before landing back on Earth at the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Accompanied by his dog Bella and escorted through the galaxy by none other than Santa Claus, Alex's otherworldly voyage will amaze and enchant children of all ages as they too embark on their very own out-of-this-world adventure.

Roya Sullivan, award-winning designer and Macy's National Director of Window Presentation, said she created the 2014 Christmas windows to combine the wonder of modern technology with stunning visual elements and a dose of nostalgia.

The six Broadway windows will showcase one-of-a-kind planet-scapes, countless custom designed toys, handmade elves and an interactive game, all accented by thousands of LED lights. Nearly 85% of the installation is foam, with sculptures carved and treated to resemble a wide variety of textures and effects, such as the surface of the moon, or the gleaming face of one of the celestial beings within.

In addition, spectators will be able to watch the story unfold chapter-by-chapter in animated form with the assistance of high definition video monitors set within each window.

"This year's Christmas windows will symbolize the power of magical thinking and the tradition of storytelling where we celebrate, not only children's imagination, but our own inner-child. We have combined our homage to today's tech-savvy child with a nostalgic dream to travel through space with Santa. This theme is brought to life by combining the technological and interactive elements with old school artistry forming a unique marriage resulting in something original and artistic," Sullivan said.

The 2014 Christmas windows at Macy's Herald Square will be on display through Dec. 26.