Lenfest Kids

The film Miracle at 34th Street -- both the 1947 original, and its 1994 remake -- captures New York at its festive best, telling the story of a department store Santa at Macy’s. Be sure to check out our video below in which Samantha and her dad uncover some fun facts about the Macy’s store where the original film is set.

Rob King, Lenfest Kids Programmer and Professor of Film
Lauren Weigel, Director, Lenfest Center for the Arts

Miracle on 34th Street

In this Christmas classic, an old man going by the name of Kris Kringle fills in for an intoxicated Santa in Macy's annual Thanksgiving Day parade. Kringle proves to be such a hit that he is soon appearing regularly at the chain's main store in midtown Manhattan. When Kringle surprises customers and employees alike by claiming that he really is Santa Claus, it leads to a court case to determine his authenticity.

Dir. George Seaton
1947  |  US  |  PG, age 6+
Apple TV  |  HBO Max  |  Hulu  |  Amazon Prime Video

Dir. Les Mayfield
1994  |  US  |  PG, age 6+
Apple TV  |  HBO Max  |  Hulu  |  Amazon Prime Video

Fun Facts

Tech behind the parade! Look behind the scenes at how the floats and balloons for the Thanksgiving Day Parade work.

Santa Claus is coming to town! Check these lists for local places and events where you can find Santa: NYC Parks  |  Mommy Poppins

Please note: We provide MPAA ratings and suggested age range ratings from Common Sense Media for your guidance, but as always, parental discretion is advised.