Yes, the subway is always gross. But around December 1st, it gets a weird upgrade. The MTA puts up holiday lights in some stations. You’ll see a sad, half-deflated wreath hanging from a steel beam.
It’s ugly. It’s perfect. It smells like urine and tinsel.
The “Last Minute” Panic
Xmas starts for real on December 23rd at 4 PM. That’s when every single person in Midtown realizes they haven’t bought gifts. The lines at Macy’s become a sport.
You will see a man in a suit buying a gift card. He will look terrified. That’s New York Christmas. Beautiful chaos.