For lovers of low prices–Black Friday is your holiday, and if you aren’t opposed to standing in lines or braving the gauntlet of other determined shoppers for a smokin’ hot deal, then New York is your city. You’ll snag the latest fashion trends before other cities catch wind of them, the hottest electronics gadgets, and the most coveted toys from stores like the flagship FAO–sure to light up the eyes of little ones on Christmas Day.

Plus, New York City may be the only city to celebrate this national holiday with cocktails. Ann Taylor in Rockefeller Center threw a midnight event with a live DJ and mimosas. eBay sponsored a Happy Holiday Hotspot with free snacks, free WiFi and free mobile shopping download apps. If you want first dibs this year, head to Macy’s at Herald Square which will open it’s door at midnight on Thanksgiving night. Most other stores keep their Black Friday sales under wraps until a few days before the event. Some of the biggest Black Friday deals are usually found on things like iPads, video game systems, TVs, and DVD players–and the best retail stores for those in NY are J&R, Circuit City, and Best Buy.

One thing to keep in mind this year, if you’re braving Black Friday in Manhattan–the latest report is freezing temperatures, so grab a piping hot latte, bundle up for chilling winds, and plan to thaw out under the store lights.

Also, be sure to check sales online ahead of time and map out where you’re going before you step foot out the hotel lobby door.

More tips: Macy’s in Herald Square is a 5-10 minute walk from the MAve Hotel. Fifth Ave and other Midtown department stores are a 5-10 minute cab ride from the Flatiron district where the MAve is located. Or for smaller boutiques that still offer discounts on Black Friday, head to SoHo where original designs and high fashion reign.

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If you’re a seasoned fashionista or someone simply wanting to shop Midtown’s iconic stores, then a visit to New York’s famous Fifth Ave is an absolute must. For those wanting a cheap excursion but with authentic NYC frills, it doesn’t get any better than this. Window shopping in December is a double dose of eye candy with yuletide decorations stemming from 39th St. up to 60th St. along Fifth Avenue, less than one mile away from NYC boutique hotel, The MAve.

Just like every brand or design tells a story–these windows are no exception. Mixing the spirit of the store with elaborate holiday themes, here’s the inside scoop for each retailer’s spin on the season:

Lord & Taylor
Featuring classic holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor celebrates tradition, and fuses it with mechanical movements and imagery. Catering to men, women, and kids–these windows are enjoyable for the entire family.
Windows are usually unveiled late November.

Macy’s
Every year Macy’s evokes scenes from Miracle on 34th Street, as well as a second set of windows with a changing holiday theme. This flagship store also sponsors the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade which celebrates its 86th year in November 2012.
Window displays are usually unveiled in early November.

Saks Fifth Avenue
Always a hit with children, the windows of Saks are often designed around a seasonal book for children, and feature playful animations. These windows are conveniently located across from Rockefeller Center promenade.
Window displays are usually unveiled in late November.

Bergdorf Goodman
Showcasing elegance and the sophisticated nature of Bergdorf design, these windows feature high fashion as well as authentic antiques–a favorite among Upper East Side residents.
Window displays are usually unveiled in mid November.

Barneys New York
Denoting the hip and stylish spirit of Barney’s, these windows are a must-see. Each year they infuse a nice dose of humor.
Window displays are usually unveiled in mid November.

Bloomingdale’s
Always very playful and family-friendly, Bloomingdale’s denotes a fun holiday spirit for all ages, while carrying gifts for everyone on your list.
Window displays are usually unveiled in late November/ early December.

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