Christmas In New York: The Best Things To Do In NYC

As we get closer to the holidays and the whole world gets into the holiday spirit, I’m preparing to celebrate Christmas in New York City once again! And I couldn’t be more excited about it! I have spent 5 years celebrating Christmas in the Big Apple, and if you’re planning on visiting New York for Christmas this year, you’ll be excited to know that Christmas in NYC is truly like a movie. You’ll create some of the best holiday memories of your life! Who doesn’t want to spend Christmas in the best city in the world?!?!

New York City definitely has a certain magic during the Christmas holidays. Every attraction you can imagine can be found in the city’s  winter wonderland: from the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the Christmas lights displays on Fifth Avenue and the magical ice skating rinks all throughout the city (Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, etc)! You’ll also encounter charming Christmas markets, iconic musical performances in Radio City Music Hall, and of course the ballet and those unbelievable Broadway shows. So if you’re planning an epic holiday in one of the best cities in the world, read on as I take you through the most iconic places to visit and show you the best ways to celebrate Christmas in NYC!

• Christmas Markets in NYC

The Christmas markets are without a doubt one of my favorite things to do in NYC for Christmas. You never know what kind of treasures you’ll find in them, and you can really experience the spirit of the holidays while you do some of your Christmas shopping. There’s something about the lights, the decor, the smell of pine trees, and the sounds of people happily going around the stands that just makes me feel festive and happy. While every Christmas market in NYC is unique, one of the most popular ones is without a doubt located in Bryant Park. This market includes tons of holidays shops, free activities including ice skating (just keep in mind that renting the skates costs $20 dollars, so not completely free unless you bring your own pair!), classes, food halls and other holiday events. Other NYC Christmas markets include the Columbus Circle Holiday Market  (specializing in holiday arts and crafts, and food), the Union Square Holiday Market (tons of amazing artisanal products; think farmers market meets winter wonderland) all of which feature music, family friendly fun, and a lively atmosphere!

Tip: The famous Strasbourg Christmas Market is coming to NYC this year! The market will be located in the Bowling Green area, from December 6th to December 22nd.

Going to an iconic show in NYC during the holidays is definitely one of those must have experiences. NYC is obviously well-known for its arts scene so there are tons of show options, but I’ll recommend the ones that I am most obsessed with:

• Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil

I had to immediately put this at the top of the list when I heard that Cirque du Soleil was coming to NYC this year! The company was last in New York for Christmas in 2019, and this show is set to be a real winter extravaganza. I haven’t personally seen this particular show, but I have been to two of their Vegas experiences and I’m truly obsessed with the company! I can only imagine what an amazing show Cirque du Soleil will deliver for Christmas!!

Tip:  The company is bringing the show to Chicago right before Christmas, just in case you can’t celebrate Christmas in New York this year!

• The Nutcracker

If spending Christmas in NYC is a dream of yours, then there’s probably no better way to get into the classic holiday spirit than spending an afternoon at the NYC Ballet enjoying the Nutcracker! I might be a bit biased, since I studied ballet growing up and my mom used to take me to see the Nutcracker every year, but the show is definitely a special experience and is a memory that you will cherish forever. It’s also one of the best ballets for kids! While some other shows may be harder to follow for younger audiences, the Nutcracker will definitely keep kids entertained and engaged. My 7 year old self would tell you the same! 

• The Rockettes

The Rockettes is a classic show of the holiday scene in NYC. You’ll probably find the show on every list of things to do in NYC at Christmas, and with good reason: The Rockettes is iconic and a staple of the city during the holidays. The company has been active since the1920’s, and bring choreographic dance to the next level with more than 150 entertainers! It’s a great mix of dancing, rhythm, and high energy fun!

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is another of those amazing things that you can only find in NYC for Christmas! The tree is always beautifully decorated, and visitors are truly immersed in the holiday spirit with the ice-skating rink under the Christmas tree, holiday lights, and festive music. The place can definitely get crowded, but this is one of those times when it’s worth putting up with the crowds.  I actually recommend that you save your ice skating experience for Central Park (the rink is bigger, and even though it also gets crowded I find that the lines move faster and I wouldn’t change those Central Park views for anything!), but the Rockefeller Center rink is a great option too. 

Tip: Going up to the Top of the Rock at Christmas is also a very out-of-this-world experience, especially if it's your first time spending Christmas in New York. You’ll get to see the entire city lit up and enjoying the holidays!

We also have a complete list of the best trees to see in NYC during your visit! Check it out(here)

• NYC Christmas Window Displays: Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show

Saks is definitely an iconic shopping stop in NYC for Christmas, but you’ll be happy to learn that the store also displays the most beautiful light show I have ever seen during the holidays! Standing outside of the store and looking up at the lights and projections is a magical experience, and one that you need to do in order to complete your Christmas in NYC trip. You can actually see the lights from the Rockefeller Center, but you’ll want to go to Saks in order to get the full experience of lights, music, and atmosphere. It’s a Christmas display like no other! 

Tip: It’s also worth mentioning that Saks is not the only store with magnificent displays in New York. All throughout the city, from Macy’s to Bloomingdales, you’ll find beautifully decorated Christmas window displays inviting you to stop by and enjoy some great shopping!

• Central Park

If I had to choose a single place to spend most of my Christmas time in New York City, it would probably be Central Park. I simply love everything about the Park at Christmas, from my favorite ice-skating rink to the gorgeous views of skyscrapers peeking through the trees. Walking through freshly snow-covered grass, smelling the crispy air, or just enjoying a warm meal at Tavern on the Green are some of my favorite holiday activities! What else is so magical about Central Park to make me obsessed with it? Well, right next to the Park you’ll also find the Columbus Christmas market, the iconic Plaza hotel, and plenty of horse-drawn carriages that will make you feel like a queen or king of your own fairytale! Amazing!

• The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Gardens

One of those unexpected treasures that you’ll find while spending Christmas in NYC is The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Gardens. The miniature train goes around representations of every major landmark in NYC: the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Rockefeller Center and more. And if you were thinking that this was a holiday adventure only for kids, think again! The New York Botanical Garden offers a more adult oriented night program that includes delicious drinks, food options, and even a DJ! So don't miss out on the opportunity to cosy up with your significant other in such a unique place this holiday season. One of my favorites!

• Rooftop Bars & Igloos

If you thought that rooftop bars & restaurants were only a summer extravaganza, think again! Some of the best rooftops in New York City don’t shut down just because it’s snowing outside! Check out some of the best ones here:

230 FIFTH ROOFTOP BAR

This Bar is on the winter to do lists of both locals and tourists, so it's a good thing it has one of the largest rooftops in NYC! Reservations are not necessary for the amazing heated igloos, which go on a first come first served basis. However, you can reserve one by prepaying. There will definitely be a wait if you come around popular dates, but the rooftop bar offers complimentary robes to keep you warm in case you didn't dress appropriately for the rooftop temperatures! Such a fun experience!

BAR 54 NYC 

Bar 54 NYC is definitely one of the fancier rooftops in New York, and during the warmer months they have a beautiful outdoor space that works on a first come first served basis as well (although you will need reservations for their indoor bar). In the winter, they have two igloos set up, known as Bubble East and Bubble West. The one downside: the prices are quite hefty even for New York City rooftop standards (be prepared for $26 a cocktail)!

• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

A perennial favorite and must-do holiday adventure for the New Yorkers spending Christmas in NYC is going to see the holiday lights at Dyker Heights. The displays of beautiful Christmas decor in this neighborhood can't be found anywhere else in the city. Get ready to see incredible lights displays and some breathtaking Christmas decor! Worth the trip!

•  Christmas TREE at South Street Seaport

 If you want to go enjoy some of NYC’s best tourist attractions while also experiencing Christmas in New York City, the South Street Seaport neighborhood is a great choice. You’ll be within walking distance to attractions like the Charging Bull, the 9/11 memorial, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Plus, the neighborhood displays a beautiful Christmas tree and a less crowded ice skating rink. Just keep in mind that the temperatures are usually lower once you get to the downtown area closer to the water...lots of wind! For those planning a short visit to NYC, we have a complete guide on how to spend 2 days in NYC here, including several options in the South Seaport area!

Spending Christmas in New York CITY?

There’s nothing better than spending Christmas in New York, but keep in mind that New York City is a very popular destination for the holidays! You’ll probably experience crowds wherever you go, but the magical feel of the city during the holidays makes it all worth it!

There’s always a chance of snow during the holidays, and even if it doesn’t snow the temperatures will be extremely low. So pack your layers, your winter hats, and your gloves, especially if you are planning to visit the Brooklyn Bridge, The Empire State or the Statue of Liberty. Pretty much everything in the city will involve being outside in some regard, so definitely plan to dress warmly.

Last but not least, don't forget to book your tickets ahead of time so you can get better prices and skip the lines. The Explorer Pass and New York Pass offer great deals and discounts!

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Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,

Laura

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