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Contents
A guide to New York’s best Christmas holiday events in 2024
Why spend Christmas in New York?
- Christmas in New York is just like what you’ve seen in the movies - glittering and busy with something to do around every corner.
- Snow is common during Christmas in New York, which has the whole city feeling like a picture-perfect yuletide setting.
- New York’s popular attractions like the Empire State Building don on their special Christmas look, making it a fascinating annual display.
- There are Christmas activities for everyone in New York - whether you prefer a more traditional holiday or a hip and unique Christmastime experience.
Top 15 things to do during Christmas in New York
1. Stop by the Winter Wonderlands
Not quite feeling the holiday spirit yet? Head to one of these winter wonderlands in New York to experience the joy of the holidays in NYC to the fullest with performances, cocktails, festive grub, and so much more!
The finest winter wonderlands in New York are at:
- The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland | Find on Maps
- The Bronx Zoo | Find on Maps
- Bayville | Find on Maps
- New York Botanical Garden | Find on Maps
2. Be amazed at the city's Christmas trees
New York takes immense pride in the magnitude of their world-famous Christmas trees, and it is easy to see why. These giant evergreens are lit up beautifully for Christmas every year, making them a popular spot for tourists and New Yorkers to gather at.
The most majestic Christmas trees in NYC are at:
- Rockefeller Center
- The Museum of Modern Art
- Lincoln Center | Find on Maps
- Washington Square Park | Find on Maps
3. Partake in retail therapy at Christmas Markets
The holiday markets in New York City are bound to get you in the Christmas spirit like nothing else. Expect to see hundreds of stalls, all selling unique Yuletide goodies. You can find everything at these festive markets - from artisanal delicacies, vintage bits and bobs, and crafts to Christmas ornaments.
Shop at the exciting holiday markets located at:
- Winter Village | Find on Maps
- Union Square Holiday Market | Find on Maps
- Grand Holiday Bazaar | Find on Maps
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market | Find on Maps
4. Participate in NYC's holiday traditions
New Yorkers love their everyday customs, and Christmastime is no exception to this fact. By partaking in age-old traditions that New Yorkers cannot envision Christmas without, you can really soak up the abundant and unique festive cheer of the city. After all, when in Rome!
Some of New York's age-old Christmas traditions are:
- Heading to Central Park
- Watching the Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony
- Watching the Holiday Train show at the New York Botanical Garden
- Sipping on festive cocktails at the Miracle pop-up bar
5. Enjoy the glittering Christmas lights
What’s a Christmas without walking in the midst of exquisitely lit-up streets and inflatable Santas and reindeer? The extravagant Christmas lights have gained worldwide popularity, so if you find yourself celebrating Christmas in New York, you simply can’t miss out on these glitzy displays.
Catch the city's finest light displays at:
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights | Find on Maps
- Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show | Find on Maps
- Amaze Light Festival | Find on Maps
- Shine Bright | Find on map
6. Watch the Rockettes in action
Watching the Rockettes perform at Radio City Hall during the Christmas Spectacular has become something of a tradition for New Yorkers. More than 140 performers take the stage annually and come together for a breathtaking performance, so it's a must to add it to your Christmas in NYC itinerary!
Watch a Rockettes show
7. Gaze in awe at window displays
Most department stores in New York will put up a (usually themed) window display depicting the joys of Christmastime, and these displays are absolutely delightful. All throughout the month of December, most NYC dwellers make their way to these stores just to catch a glimpse of these gorgeous and thoughtful displays.
New York's most spectacular Christmas window displays:
- Cartier | Find on Maps
- Bergdorf Goodman | Find on Maps
- Bloomingdale’s | Find on Maps
- Saks Fifth Avenue | Find on Maps
8. Curl, skate, and sled
New York tends to get incredibly chilly around Christmas, which is why almost all of the city’s residents head to their nearest snow-covered location to participate in some icy fun to keep themselves warm. There are multiple spots in the city where you can partake in activities like curling, sledding, ice skating - you name it!
Best spots for some icy fun are at:
- Bryant Park | Find on Maps
- Wollman Rink | Find on Maps
- Rockefeller Center Ice Rink
- M Social Hotel | Find on Maps
9. Head to Macy's
Heading to Macy’s during Thanksgiving and Christmas is another one of those traditions that makes you feel like a real New Yorker. With impressive window displays, a wholesome and inclusive visit with Santa, and holiday gift shops galore, there’s no wonder Macy’s gets as busy as it does during Christmas.
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10. Take a dinner cruise
Celebrate Christmas in style with a dinner cruise, where you’ll enjoy gourmet dining against the backdrop of New York's stunning skyline. These winter-themed cruises are decked out with festive holiday decor and offer up-close views of iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building, all illuminated for the season. Enjoy a memorable evening with two to three hours of dining, live entertainment, and incredible city views.
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11. Make your way to popular attractions
It’s tempting to go off the beaten path and explore unique experiences during Christmas in NYC, but don’t miss out on the glory of the popular ones! The advent of Christmas has these landmarks shining in a whole new festive light all through December, and you can’t miss out on these sights!
Experience NYC's most popular attractions at:
12. Have a meet-and-greet with Santa
An indispensable (and perhaps the most-awaited) part of the Christmas season is the man himself - Santa Claus. Meeting the iconic Father Christmas is bound to be an unforgettable experience for the young ones. And if you want to witness another whacky NYC tradition unfold, don’t forget to attend Santacon - a convention where every attendee dresses as Santa Claus.
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13. Listen to some live tunes
If singing along to some good old holiday music or immersing yourself in elegant, jazzy tunes for the evening is more your thing, then head to a Christmas show anytime during December in NYC. There’s truly nothing that is bound to get you in the festive spirit better than those nostalgic melodies.
Catch these musical masterpieces at:
- The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts | Find on Maps
- Elf: The Musical at Marquis Theater | Find on Maps
- The Notebook at Gerald Schoenfeld Theater | Find on Maps
- A Sherlock Carol at New World Stages | Find on Maps
14. Feast to your heart's content
Because after all, what’s a festive celebration without gorging on large amounts of delicious grub? Luckily, spending your Christmas in NYC opens you up to a variety of culinary options, ranging from tried-and-tested pop-up bars to luxury fine dining experiences.
Head to these restaurants for the best festive grub:
- One if by Land, Two if by Sea | Find on Maps
- Kimika | Find on Maps
- Rolo’s | Find on Maps
- Little Prince | Find on Maps
15. Take in panoramic views of the busting city
Soak in the pretty Christmas lights from a height atop an observation deck in the city. New York has quite a few top-notch observation decks, with stunning views of the city and a host of immersive exhibits. During Christmas, many of these decks will provide Christmas-themed photo-ops to help capture your magical experience.
Observation decks to visit during Christmas:
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Frequently asked questions about celebrating Christmas in New York
Is Christmas a good time to visit New York?
Absolutely! Christmas is one of the best times of the year to visit New York. In addition to the Big Apple’s already magical aura, you’re bound to find holiday-special things to do during Christmas in NYC at every corner you turn.
What are some things to do in NYC on Christmas eve?
You’re going to be spoilt for choices with how many things to do during Christmas in NYC there are. You can catch a holiday-special Broadway show, go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or join carolers under the Washington Square Arch. For something special, join a Christmas Eve dinner cruise or catch the sunset at the Empire State Building.
What is the weather like at Christmas in New York?
Christmas in NYC is typically cold, around 30 to 40°F (-1 to 4°C). Pack a heavy coat, scarf, and gloves—especially if you plan to spend time at outdoor attractions like Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue lights.
Is New York crowded at Christmas?
Yes, the holiday season is one of the busiest times in New York, especially around popular sites like Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue. To experience the magic without the peak crowds, visit major attractions early in the morning or later in the evening.
What’s open in New York on Christmas?
What is the most popular Christmas market in New York?
The Bryant Park Winter Village is New York’s most popular Christmas market. From October to early January, this market offers holiday gifts, artisan crafts, delicious treats, and a free ice rink. Union Square and Columbus Circle also host great holiday markets, perfect for picking up unique gifts.
Are restaurants open on Christmas in New York?
Many popular restaurants like Red Rooster and Le Jardinier are open on Christmas day, and they even offer special festive menus for you to peruse!
What are the best places to stay in New York on Christmas?
New York’s hotels ace the festive décor game every year by decking themselves up with Christmassy décor. The best hotels in New York to really feel the Christmas spirit are the Ritz Carlton, Lotte New York Palace, The Plaza and Mandarin Oriental.
What should I eat in New York on Christmas?
With New York’s food being an amalgam of every culture imaginable, Christmas is no exception. Most people in New York prefer dining out on Christmas day, indulging in the Italian-American tradition of the Feast of Seven Fishes or eating Chinese food.
What are the best restaurants for Christmas in New York?
The best restaurants in New York for Christmas grub are Kimika, Rolo’s, Fogo de Chao, and COTE Korean Steakhouse.
Where can I see the Christmas lights in New York?
For unforgettable Christmas lights, head to Rockefeller Center, the Saks Fifth Avenue light show, and Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, where entire homes are decked out in extravagant displays. Washington Square Park and Central Park also feature charming seasonal lights, ideal for an evening stroll.
What are some Christmas traditions in New York?
New York is known for holiday traditions like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, and elaborate window displays along Fifth Avenue. You can also enjoy ice skating at iconic rinks, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, and caroling at Washington Square Park.
When does Christmas in NYC start?
NYC starts celebrating early! Bryant Park Winter Village kicks off October 25, followed by Union Square and Columbus Circle markets in mid-November. Macy’s Christmas Windows light up on November 14, and the Rockefeller Tree lighting on December 4 signals the full start of the season.