Saks Fifth Avenue’s holiday windows to provide lighting extravaganza

Saks Fifth Avenue’s holiday windows are an annual tradition in Manhattan, and the retailer keeps upping the ante.



Saks will unveil its windows on Nov. 23, and the display promise to light up the night. The retailer will transform its windows with a “Winter Place” theme, complete with a state-of-the-art light show featuring three-dimensional elements on the front facade of the iconic store, including towering light icicles, crystal palace spires, and snowy magnolia arches.



In addition to the light show on the facade of the building, Saks will allow the audience to become a part of the show with the use of wearable Xylobands (wristbands with light-emitting diodes and radio frequency receivers.) The Xylobands interact with the controlled elements of the light show.



With the integration of networked lighting and video devices, the light show will be the first of its kind for Saks. Notably, the show requires:



• 225,000+ individual points of controlled light;

• 10,000+ hours to produce; and

• 250+ individuals involved both internationally and domestically.



The actual windows will feature such wintry fantasies as the Empress of China sliding alongside her Great Wintery Wall and an icy mermaid marveling at the beauty found within the frozen Great Brrrier Reef.



"I am constantly amazed with the creativity and talent of the Saks Fifth Avenue team," commented Marc Metrick, president, Saks Fifth Avenue. "Utilizing new technology and with a fresh take on the winter wonderland concept, Saks Fifth Avenue has created something legendary with The Winter Palace."



The winter palace theme will be extended to Saks locations nationwide, with icy chandeliers, frosted decor, and wintry, exotic fashion featured throughout the stores.