Winter Forest of the Northern Lights

For this holiday and winter season, HERO explores one of Earth’s most powerful mythical events – The Northern Lights – and transports it to the heart of New York City at Rockefeller Center. Guests step into an underground Winter Forest, beneath the world’s most famous Christmas tree, to explore seven zones of wonder and be transported to the ultimate viewing of the Aurora Borealis above them. Explorers may also play beneath the snow covered birches, explore ancient winter traditions and make new memories. The experience takes guests on a poetic journey through seven artistic interpretations of winter, of light, and of the magic of the season. The installations include: The Winter Wish - A magical introduction video that welcomes guests into our poetic story via a larger-than-life 60 ft wide by 10ft tall LED video installation. The Northern Forest - Two wishing pools are surrounded by birch trees, an invitation to reflect, and audio inspired by Scandinavian myths of the winter. The Eastern Forest - Guests are invited to find a comfortable spot to sit and absorb the resonance of handcrafted gongs from Indonesia while gazing upon the inverted tree of light. The Aurora Borealis - The center installation is a stunning overhead display of the Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights) in a room filled with starlight and snow for guests to play in. The Western Forest - The final experience invites our guests to get lost in a winter maze filled with snow and fog, with audio offering another moment for reflection and looking forward. The Enchanted Cocoa Bar - Presented in partnership with Maison du Chocolate, our guests are invited to partake in artisanal hot chocolate and mystical elixirs to warm hearts and minds during this cold season. Festive refreshments such as hot chocolate and mulled wine are also available for purchase to warm cold bodies and cast a new light on the family and friends around. Come to HERO and be transported to the ultimate viewing of the northern lights while also experiencing seven unique art installation zones that celebrate the wonder of winter.