Christmas in New York
Experience the best of Christmas in New York City by discovering the best things to do and see in the city.
Who hasn’t dreamt of travelling to New York at Christmas? The Big Apple transforms into a true paradise during this time, where the magic of the season can be felt in every corner. If you're planning a getaway during the holidays, get ready to experience a dream trip, explore movie-like settings, and soak up a special atmosphere with the streets illuminated and decorated for Christmas.
The Best Things to Do During Christmastime in New York City
At Christmastime, New York offers a variety of unmissable activities that will immerse you in the festive spirit. Begin your adventure with a stroll through the brightly lit streets of Dyker Heights, where houses compete for the title of best Christmas decorations, or sing carols and sip hot chocolate as you sail along the Hudson River. Here are some of the best options:
- NYC Christmas Lights Tour
- Manhattan Christmas Tour
- New York Christmas Movie Sites Tour
- New York Holiday Boat Tour
What to See in New York City at Christmas
Ice skate with the best views of the Big Apple, browse markets like those at Bryant Park or Union Square to pick up a memento from your trip, or attend a classic show like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular for a magical experience. Of course, don’t forget to explore the impressive Christmas window displays at iconic stores like Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue, which tell enchanting stories through their elaborate decorations. With so many options, every corner of the city becomes a festive stage that will make your visit unforgettable.
Christmas Markets in New York
Christmas markets are an essential part of the festive experience in New York. Most of them start operating from early November and close at the end of December, after Christmas or New Year. If you have the chance to visit New York at this time, we recommend visiting some of the city’s main Christmas markets:
- Bryant Park Holiday Market is one of the most popular, with over 100 stalls offering crafts, unique gifts, and delicious food. There’s also a free ice-skating rink (though skate hire comes at a cost).
- Union Square Holiday Market offers a wide range of local and artisanal products, including jewellery, clothing, and a variety of food. It’s a great place to find unique and original gifts at very good prices, reminiscent of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets.
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market, located on the west side of Central Park at the southwest corner of 8th Avenue and 59th Street, is another of New York’s well-known markets. Its stalls offer fine local products, crafts, and gourmet food, though prices tend to be high. It’s perfect for enjoying a hot chocolate while you stroll past charming stalls.
- Grand Central Holiday Fair is another of the city's largest markets, and the only one held indoors. With elegant crafts and decorations, it’s an ideal place to shop for Christmas gifts.
Christmas Shows in New York
The Christmas season in New York wouldn’t be complete without the shows. The Big Apple transforms into a true showcase of lights, music, and joy, making it a magical destination where visitors can enjoy a variety of performances that capture the festive spirit. Here are some of the most notable:
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The ultimate Christmas show in New York, this iconic performance, held at the famous Radio City Music Hall, has been a holiday tradition since 1933. The Rockettes, with their impressive choreography and dazzling costumes, are the heart of the show. With musical numbers, special effects, and a festive atmosphere, it’s an experience you can’t miss. Tickets for this show are very difficult to get due to limited availability, so we recommend getting them as soon as possible. You can buy them at this link.
- Cirque du Soleil's "Twas the Night Before Christmas". The first Christmas show by Cirque du Soleil comes to New York, where you'll experience a magical night at the famous Madison Square Garden. You'll witness incredible performances set to the soundtrack of one of the holiday classics reinvented by Cirque du Soleil. You can get your tickets at this link.
- Another highlight during this season is "The Nutcracker", a masterpiece performed at Lincoln Center. With music by Tchaikovsky and a magical story that transports viewers to a world of fantasy, this ballet is perfect for family enjoyment.
The Best Ice Skating Rinks in New York
Ice-skating is one of the most iconic activities of the Christmas season in New York. There are several rinks to enjoy during your trip, but you absolutely must try the experience at the most famous rink in the Big Apple: Rockefeller Center. If you want to have a magical experience in the heart of Manhattan, we recommend booking your tickets in advance:
You can also enjoy the rink at Bryant Park, which offers a charming atmosphere and a nearby Christmas market. Entry is free, but you’ll need to reserve your slot and bring your own skates or hire them there. Another option is the Wollman Rink in Central Park, the largest of all, offering the best views both day and night with its natural surroundings and skyline.
The Best Christmas Trees in New York
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is the star of the season, as it’s the oldest and most popular in all of New York. The tradition of installing a giant fir tree in the plaza dates back to the 1930s, and it’s a must-see for visitors from early November, though its lighting takes place in December.
In addition to the Rockefeller tree, the tree in Washington Square Park is another charming place to enjoy the festive decorations. The tree is set up beneath the iconic arch, and locals gather to sing carols on the night it’s lit. You’ll also find beautifully decorated trees in Central Park, Bryant Park, and in various churches and libraries around the city, such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the New York Public Library.
Other Festive Things to Do in New York
A stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the spectacular window displays and themed decorations that attract visitors from around the world, the annual house decoration competitions in Dyker Heights, or ringing in the New Year in Times Square in style are other suggestions you won’t want to miss if you’re spending Christmas in New York.