16 Best Things to Do in New York at Christmas
Snow-dusted streets, glowing shop windows, and that unmistakable buzz in the air; New York in December feels like stepping into a holiday movie.
The city turns every corner into a festive scene worth savoring. Unwrap the magic with these best things to do in New York at Christmas.
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1. Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is as classic as it gets. Each year, a towering spruce takes over Midtown, wrapped in a jaw-dropping 50,000+ LED lights and topped with a sparkling star. It’s the unofficial epicenter of holiday cheer in Manhattan.
Thousands gather nightly to snap photos, and it’s hard not to get swept up in the excitement.
The tree is surrounded by plenty to do. Grab a hot drink, wander the plaza, maybe even lace up for a quick skate.
2. Ice Skate at Wollman Rink in Central Park
Skating across Wollman Rink under the Manhattan skyline is holiday magic. The rink is nestled in Central Park, wrapped in twinkling lights with skyscrapers peeking through the trees.
It’s open to everyone, no matter if you skate like an Olympian or cling to the railings. The vibe is inviting, never intimidating.
No skates? No problem. Rentals and lessons are available, and a cozy clubhouse nearby lets you warm up with a snack or browse the gift shop between laps.
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3. See the Holiday Windows on Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue turns into winter’s eye candy each December. Department store window displays stretch from Bergdorf Goodman to Saks, each one more elaborate than the last.
Expect moving figures, sparkling lights, and tiny worlds that somehow manage to outdo themselves every year.
For a less crowded experience, try to go on a weekday morning or late at night. Otherwise, it’s shoulder-to-shoulder holiday chaos (but that’s part of the fun).
4. Explore the Union Square Holiday Market
The Union Square Holiday Market is a whirlwind of color, sound, and delicious smells from mid-November through Christmas.
Over 150 vendors cram into the square, offering everything from quirky socks to artisanal cheeses and locally-made jewelry.
It’s a great spot to pick up unique gifts or just wander with a cup of cocoa, taking in the festive energy.
The market is closed on Thanksgiving, but otherwise, it’s open from mid-November to Christmas Eve.
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5. Attend the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is pure holiday nostalgia, starring the Rockettes. Expect new numbers, classic high kicks, and a few surprises at the legendary Radio City Music Hall.
It’s a tradition that’s been going strong since 1933, and it’s tough not to get swept up by the energy in that Art Deco theater.
Accessibility features help make sure everyone can enjoy the show. The building itself, with its grand interiors and glowing lights, is a spectacle before the curtain even rises.
6. Walk the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights goes absolutely wild for Christmas. Entire blocks transform into a glowing sea of lights, oversized Santas, and inflatable reindeer that border on the absurd (in the best way).
Guided walking tours depart from Manhattan, making it easy to get there by bus.
The displays are famous for a reason. Bring your camera, and maybe a thermos of something warm, because you’ll want to linger.
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7. Shop at Bryant Park Winter Village
The Winter Village at Bryant Park brings a cozy, festive market to Midtown, with over 170 vendors selling handmade gifts, snacks, and winter gear.
Stalls are scattered across the park, from the Upper Terrace to 40th Street, so there’s plenty to explore.
Local artisans bring some serious creativity, and it’s almost impossible not to walk away with at least one impulse buy.
8. Catch a Performance of The Nutcracker Ballet
The Nutcracker is a holiday must, and New York doesn’t disappoint. Multiple productions pop up across the city, from classic to contemporary.
New York City Ballet’s George Balanchine version at Lincoln Center is the gold standard (recommended for kids five and up).
Other dance companies across the boroughs put their own spin on Tchaikovsky’s score, so you can pick the vibe that fits your crew best.
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9. Visit the Christmas Markets at Columbus Circle
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market brings a bit of European flair to the edge of Central Park. Over 100 artisans set up shop in wooden stalls, offering jewelry, art, and plenty of treats.
It’s a short distance from Wollman Rink, so you can easily pair skating with shopping. The atmosphere is straight out of a German holiday postcard. Grab a hot drink and browse for gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
10. Stroll Through the Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden is a mini New York built from bark, leaves, and seeds.
Model trains wind past tiny versions of landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, all inside a lush greenhouse.
Evening visits (on select nights) give the whole thing a magical, after-dark vibe. It’s a cozy escape from the cold, and a hit with kids and adults alike.
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11. Visit Hudson Yards’ Shine Bright Installation
Hudson Yards really leans into the season with its Shine Bright installation. Over two million white lights drape the complex, covering The Shops, Public Square & Gardens, The Edge, and Vessel. It’s a bold, modern take on holiday décor.
There’s a whopping 115 miles of lights, and the displays run from November 25th to January 5th. Free photos with Santa and some festive eats round out the experience.
12. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral Decorated for Christmas
St. Patrick’s Cathedral gets a serious glow-up for Christmas. Its soaring Gothic spires and detailed stonework are decked out with lights and greenery, making it one of the city’s most impressive holiday sights.
Inside, the nativity scene is a crowd-pleaser, and wreaths and garlands add warmth to the grand architecture.
Midnight Mass tickets are handed out by lottery, but regular visits are free and open to all. It’s worth a quick stop, even if you’re just passing by on Fifth Avenue.
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13. Take a Holiday Harbor Cruise Around Manhattan
See the city from a new angle with a holiday harbor cruise. Boats get decked out for Christmas, and the skyline views are hard to beat.
Hot cocoa, cookies, and live jazz or Christmas carols set the mood, and heated indoor areas keep things toasty.
The route glides past icons like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, all lit up for the season.
14. New York Transit Museum Holiday Train Exhibit
The New York Transit Museum’s Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Gallery & Store is a hit for all ages.
Lionel model trains zip along a sprawling 34-foot display, weaving between vintage subway cars and festive city scenes.
Admission is free, and the exhibit captures New York’s transit history with a dash of holiday whimsy.
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15. Visit The Grand Central Holiday Fair
The Grand Central Holiday Fair pops up right in Vanderbilt Hall, all under those jaw-dropping chandeliers and classic Beaux-Arts arches.
Handcrafted jewelry, pottery, original art, and quirky gifts from local artisans sprawl across the space, tempting even the most disciplined window shopper.
The indoor holiday market sticks around for about six weeks, so you’ve got plenty of time to hunt for Christmas ornaments or just wander the stalls, all without freezing.
The vibe is equal parts festive chaos and cozy tradition, which feels about right for the season.
16. Attend a Christmas Concert at Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall lights up every holiday season with concerts that make the iconic space feel extra magical.
With Broadway stars like Norm Lewis belting out Christmas classics, it’s a vibe that’s hard to top in New York.
All through December, special holiday concerts from guest presenters take over the schedule. Expect a mix of old-school carols, lush orchestral pieces, and a few modern surprises tossed in for good measure.
