New York City shines even brighter during the holiday season. From elaborate store window displays on Fifth Avenue to the iconic Rockefeller Center tree, the Big Apple transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Whether you’re a local or visiting, get into the Christmas spirit with these 10 magical things to do for Christmas in New York City.
Take in the Sights on a Holiday Lights Tour
One of the best ways to see New York City dressed up for the holidays is on a holiday lights tour. These tours take you around Manhattan by bus or cruise to see iconic landmarks like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and department store window displays. Some companies, like Gray Line New York, even have tours dedicated just to seeing the incredible holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue and in other neighborhoods. Their Fifth Avenue Holiday Lights Tour covers displays at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co., Bloomingdales and more. Or for sweeping views, hop on the Manhattan Holiday Lights Cruise by Classic Harbor Line. Their heated yacht cruises past the lit-up skyline and under classic bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge strung with holiday lights.
Ice Skate with a View
Ice skating in New York is even more magical with holiday decor as your backdrop. Lace up your skates at one of these iconic rinks:
- The Rink at Rockefeller Center: Skate with the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and golden Prometheus statue above you.
- Wollman Rink in Central Park: Get postcard views of the New York City skyline while gliding around this rink.
- Winter Village at Bryant Park: This European-style holiday market has an ice rink for free skating.
- Sky Rink at Pier 61: Skate right on the Hudson River with a backdrop of the Statue of Liberty.
See the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
What’s more Christmas than the iconic Radio City Rockettes? Their legendary Christmas Spectacular show at Radio City Music Hall is a quintessential New York holiday tradition.Dazzling dance numbers, costumes, and staging come together for a festive show the whole family will love. Fun musical numbers like the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” never get old. Make sure to buy tickets in advance, as shows often sell out well before Christmas.
Marvel at Store Holiday Window Displays
Department stores unveil their most elaborate holiday window displays in late November, turning Fifth Avenue into an outdoor art gallery.Some of the most impressive include:
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Their theatrical displays have themes like “The Nutcracker” with animated scenes.
- Bergdorf Goodman: Whimsical, fashion-inspired displays that are like floating fairytale worlds.
- Macy’s: Over-the-top scenes based on popular stories like “Miracle on 34th Street” at their Herald Square flagship.
- Bloomingdale’s: Creative displays showcasing their mascot, Bingo the Holiday Bear, in fun scenes.
- Lord & Taylor: Vintage scenes of old New York with nostalgic charm.
Sip Festive Cocktails at a Holiday Pop-Up Bar
For some grown-up holiday fun, visit one of New York’s Christmas-themed pop-up bars.Decked out with tacky holiday decor, these temporary bars serve cocktails with cheeky Christmas names like the “Bad Santa” or “Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r.” Popular spots include:
- Miracle on 9th: Christmas tiki bar with kitschy mugs and garnishes.
- Sippin’ Santa: Tropical holiday bar at the Polynesian restaurant Tiki Tabu.
- Rolf’s German Christmas Bar: Christmas market-themed bar in Gramercy Park.
Make reservations ahead of time, as these pop-ups tend to book up.
See the Nutcracker Ballet
What’s Christmas without the Nutcracker? Treat yourself to this holiday classic performed by the renowned New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center.From the dramatic battle scene to the magical growing Christmas tree, Tchaikovsky’s score comes alive with the company’s masterful choreography and stage design. Fun fact: The New York City Ballet has performed George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker every year since 1954.
Related: How to Not Look Like a Tourist in New York
Stroll Through a Holiday Market
New York’s holiday markets bring all the charm of European Christmas markets. Browse for handmade gifts and ornaments while sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine. Top markets include:
- Bryant Park Winter Village: Over 175 vendors surround an ice skating rink.
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Inspired by German Christmas markets with over 100 vendors.
- Union Square Holiday Market: Traditional European market with artisanal gifts and food.
- Grand Central Holiday Fair: Located in Vanderbilt Hall with over 200 vendors.
Have Breakfast with Santa at a Department Store
For families, having breakfast or brunch with Santa at a New York institution like Macy’s or Bloomingdale’s is a magical experience. Kids can meet and take photos with Santa while enjoying cookies, hot chocolate, and entertainment like carolers, musicians, and storytime with Mrs. Claus. The elaborate holiday decor and energy make this an unforgettable Christmas outing for kids. Make reservations early!
See the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting
The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a quintessential New York holiday moment. Each year, thousands gather to see the 70-100 foot tall Norway spruce lit up with over 50,000 LED lights. The tree lighting ceremony happens in late November or early December with live entertainment and a celebrity host. While space is limited close to the tree, you can still take in the excitement and live performances from nearby. After the ceremony, the tree remains lit up through early January for visitors to enjoy.
Take a Day Trip on the Polar Express
All aboard the Polar Express! This Christmas train ride operated by the New York Susquehanna & Western railway departs from Hoboken, New Jersey and transports families to the “North Pole”. Kids can wear their pajamas for the ride and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to the Polar Express story. Santa and his elves board the train to greet families and each child receives a special gift. This one-of-a-kind immersive experience makes Christmas dreams come true, especially for train-loving kids.
Don´t Wait and Enjoy the New York Christmas Magic!
With so many ways to celebrate, New York City shines bright during the Christmas season. From skating under the Rockefeller tree to seeing the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular, these activities get you into the holiday spirit. Seeing the elaborate store window displays and holiday markets also make New York feel like a winter wonderland. Whether you’re looking for Christmas magic with the family or festive cocktails out with friends, New York offers endless ways to deck the halls this season.
