17 Best Things to Do in New York City During Christmas

New York City during Christmas is nothing short of magical. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and holiday cheer on every corner.

Whether visiting for the first time or a local looking for something new, here are the best things to do in New York City during Christmas!

Below Are the 17 Best Things to Do in New York City During Christmas

1. Visit the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.

One of the most beloved symbols of the holiday season in New York City is the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. This towering evergreen, often reaching over 75 feet, is adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and topped with a stunning star.

The tree lighting ceremony, typically held in early December, attracts thousands of spectators who gather to witness this festive event. It’s not just a sight to behold; the atmosphere is exciting, making it a perfect spot for holiday photos and memories.

2. Explore the festive Bryant Park Winter Village.

Bryant Park transforms into a Winter Village filled with charming holiday shops, delicious food stalls, and an inviting ice skating rink. This delightful market offers everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats, creating a cozy atmosphere for visitors.

As you stroll through the market, you can enjoy live music and various events that add to the festive spirit. It’s a beautiful place to gather with friends or family while soaking in the sights and sounds of the season.

3. Experience the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

The Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes is a time-honored tradition that captivates audiences each holiday season. This dazzling performance combines music, dance, and stunning visuals that celebrate the joy of Christmas.

Attending this show has become a cherished experience for many families visiting NYC during the holidays. The grandeur of Radio City Music Hall enhances the magic, making it an unforgettable evening out.

4. Stroll through Central Park under twinkling lights

Central Park offers a serene escape from the city’s hustcity’s bustle during Christmas. As you wander its paths, you’ll be adorned with twinkling lights, creating a magical winter wonderland.

A horse-drawn carriage ride adds an extra touch of romance to your visit. Whether with your loved ones or enjoying some quiet time alone, Central Park’s beauParksnbeauty is a brighter holiday season.

5. Visit FAO Schwarz for festive fun.

FAO Schwarz is not just any toy store; it’s an iconic destination that comes alive during Christmas. Its grand piano and whimsical displays offer an enchanting experience for children and adults alike.

The store hosts various holiday events and showcases unique toys that make perfect gifts. Visiting here will surely spark joy and nostalgia as you explore its magical aisles of wonder.

6. Enjoy holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue.

The holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue are famous for their creativity and artistry. Major department stores like Macy’s and Macy’sifth Avenue create elaborate themes that draw crowds eager to see their stunning decorations each year.

Walking along Fifth Avenue to admire these displays has become a tradition for many. Each window tells a story, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

7. Indulge in festive treats at local markets.

New York City’s holiday markets are brimming with delicious seasonal treats that embody the spirit of Christmas. From warm pretzels to artisanal hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as you explore these festive spots.

These markets provide tasty food and showcase local crafts and unique gifts. Sampling seasonal delicacies adds flavor to your NYC adventure during this magical time of year.

8. Attend a performance of “The Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center.

“The Nutcracker” ballet is a classic holiday tradition performed annually at Lincoln Center by the New York City Ballet. This enchanting story captures the magic of Christmas through beautiful choreography and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music.

Experiencing this performance is a beautiful way to celebrate the season while enjoying world-class ballet in one of NYC’s most prestigious venues. It resonates with young and old audiences, making it a must-see during your visit.

9. Participate in a Christmas walking tour of Manhattan.

A guided walking tour through Manhattan during Christmas offers insights into the city’s festive history and traditions. These tours often include visits to iconic landmarks adorned with holiday decorations, providing a unique perspective on NYC’s celebrations.

Expert guides share stories about New York’s unique customs, making it educational and entertaining. It’s an exciting way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture while enjoying its holiday spirit.

10. Sip on hot chocolate at famous cafés like Serendipity 3.

No trip to NYC during Christmas is complete without indulging in hot chocolate from iconic cafés such as Serendipity 3. Known for its decadent frozen hot chocolate, this café attracts visitors looking for a sweet treat amidst winter’s chill.

The whimsical décor adds charm, making it a cozy, relaxing spot after exploring the city’s festivals and attractions. Enjoying hot chocolate here has become a tradition for many visitors each holiday season.

11. See the stunning light displays at Dyker Heights.

Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is famous for its extravagant Christmas light displays, which put up, which residents put up each year. This neighborhood transforms into a dazzling spectacle that attracts crowds eager to see homes adorned with millions of lights and elaborate decorations.

A stroll through Dyker Heights offers an enchanting experience as you take in all the creativity on display. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season while enjoying the community spirit in this vibrant neighborhood.

12. Visit Santa Claus at Macy’s.

Macy’s offers a magical experience during the holiday season, where children can meet Santa Claus in person. This enchanting display features festive decorations and seasonal characters, creating an immersive environment for families visiting NYC.

The visit is free but requires reservations due to high demand, making planning essential. Meeting Santa here has become a cherished memory for many families during their holiday trips to New York City.

13. Explore the Museum of Art’s Neapolitan Christmas tree display.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases an exquisite Neapolitan nativity scene alongside its stunning Christmas tree each year. This display reflects traditional Italian artistry and adds cultural depth to your holiday visit to NYC.

The museum provides a serene environment where visitors can appreciate art while celebrating Christmas traditions worldwide. It’s aIt’srIt’enrIt’sngience that combines culture with festive cheer during this time of year.

14. Dine at Rolf’s German Restaurant for an unforgettable experience.

Rolf’s restaurant is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations, which immerse diners in the holiday spirit year-round. The restaurant serves traditional German fare alongside festive cocktails in a cozy setting filled with lights and ornaments.

This unique dining experience has become popular among locals and tourists, making reservations essential during peak season. Enjoying dinner here feels like stepping into a winter wonderland while savoring delicious cuisine with friends or family.

15. Take part in ice skating at iconic rinks like Wollman Rink or Rockefeller Center.

Rolf’s German Restaurant is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations that immerse diners in the holiday spirit year-round. The restaurant serves traditional German fare alongside festive cocktails in a cozy setting filled with lights and ornaments.

This unique dining experience has become popular among locals and tourists, making reservations essential during peak season. Enjoying dinner here feels like stepping into a winter wonderland while savoring delicious cuisine with friends or family.

16. Attend live performances at The Apollo Theater or Carnegie Hall.

The Apollo Theater and Carnegie Hall host special performances throughout December that celebrate various aspects of holiday culture through music and dance. These historic venues provide exceptional entertainment options for those looking to enjoy live shows during their visit to New York City this time of year.

There’s nothing at these iconic locations, from classical concerts to festive-themed performances. Attending shows here adds an elegant touch to your holiday experience while supporting talented artists from diverse backgrounds.

17. Take a festive cruise around Manhattan.

A holiday cruise around Manhattan offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline, with Christmas lights shining brightly against the night sky. Various companies provide themed cruises that include dinner, drinks, and live entertainment, making it a memorable way to celebrate this joyful season with loved ones and friends.

Sailing past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge allows you to soak in NYC’s beauty from another angle while enjoying the festive cheer onboard. This experience combines sightseeing with celebration, creating lasting memories as you toast another beautiful year ahead!

Free things to do in New York for Christmas

1. Visit the Holiday Markets: Many holiday markets, such as the one at Union Square, are free to enter and offer a festive atmosphere with local vendors, crafts, and seasonal treats. Strolling through these markets is a delightful way to soak in the holiday spirit without spending a dime.
2. Walk through Central Park: Enjoy a winter walk in Central Park, where you can admire the snow-dusted trees and serene landscapes. The park’s beauty during this season is breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.
3. See the Empire State Building Lights: The Empire State Building lights up with festive colors throughout December. You can enjoy this spectacular light display from various vantage points around the city, creating a magical backdrop for your holiday photos.

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