With the Christmas season finally upon us, different cities in the U.S. are already in the holiday spirit. Especially, a city like New York City — where it has become the ultimate holiday destination for tourists from all over. From the eye-catching holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue to holiday markets like Bryant Park’s Winter Village, there are many things to do during the holiday season right here in New York City. Whether you’re near the city or coming for a quick visit, read on for the top things to do in New York City for the holidays.
1. Visit a holiday market
If looking to get holiday shopping done or curious to explore NYC, you should visit a local city holiday market. The five boroughs of New York City have already set up shop for its holiday markets. A popular one to check out would be Bryant Park’s Winter Village. It is decked out with kiosks from different vendors ranging from food, drink, clothing, and Christmas decor. A Christmas tree with different ornaments is also set up for a quick photo op. Besides shopping, other activities at Bryant Park’s Winter Village include ice skating and riding the carousel. For other holiday market options, they are situated in locations like Union Square, Brooklyn Navy Yard, and Columbus Circle.
2. Check out Rockefeller Center’s iconic Christmas tree
This spot in New York City has been one of the most popular sites to visit during the holidays. Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree has been seen in holiday movies like Elf and Home Alone. It is only right to go and take cute holiday content to save for a lifetime. The tree’s tradition dates back to 1933 and continues to be a beloved one to this day. Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree had its lighting ceremony on November 29th, 2023. It will be lit daily from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. Hours will be extended until 1 a.m. from December 15th through Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day, the tree is lit for 24 hours, and on New Year’s Eve it is lit from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Vistors have until January 13th to go see the Christmas tree before it is removed.
3. Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
View this post on Instagram
For another beloved NYC tradition, it is a must to go see The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes. The performance showcases holiday numbers featuring Santa, wooden soldiers, and of course, the Rockettes — an American dance company. Audiences through the years have been in awe of the precise and in-sync dance numbers. The Rockettes move as one and it is a performance that will not have you batting an eye. Tickets can be purchased here to attend the show.
4. Go ice skating in Central Park
View this post on Instagram
Ice skating is a popular winter and holiday activity that’s fun for everyone. If looking for where to go ice skating, Central Park is a place to go. This park is one of the largest public parks in Manhattan. It is home to Wollman Rink, a dedicated ice-skating rink open from late October to late March. The full ice skating rink hour information can be found here. Something to note is that ice skating admission prices go up during the holiday season due to high demand. Besides that point, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skater — it is a fun holiday activity worth doing.
5. Go tour the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
With the sun setting earlier than before, it makes more time to take in the eye-catching Christmas lights around us. If you’re looking to visit a neighborhood that goes all out for Christmas — Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is the spot. Crowds of all ages can walk along the streets outdoors and view the several houses decked out for the holidays. Life-size Santas, reindeer, and snowmen can be seen throughout your walking tour. Since it requires walking, be sure to dress appropriately with comfortable shoes and check the weather before heading out.
6. Attend a holiday pop-up bar
View this post on Instagram
Local restaurants and bars are also joining in on the holiday festivities. Several locales through NYC have started to host holiday-pop-up bars. Usually, these pop-up experiences feature holiday decor (perfect for pictures) and holiday-inspired food and drinks. Loreley Restaurant and Biergarten is hosting a Winter Wonderland experience. Reservations should be made in advance through here. Drinks like seasonal craft beers, bourbon hot chocolate, spiked egg nog, and holiday cocktails will be available to purchase. Other holiday pop-up bars for the season are Miracle on Ninth Street at The Cabinet and Frosty’s Christmas Bar at Blue.
7. Check out NYBG’s Holiday Train Show
View this post on Instagram
New York Botanical Garden is weighing in on the holiday festivities. This 30-year-old tradition is back with new features for guests to see and enjoy. There will be more trains than last year and an all-new, outdoor train display. Guests can capture their holiday photos at NYBG’s outdoor mountainscapes. Then, you can watch trains zip past nearly 200 iconic New York landmarks under the warmth of the Conservatory. It is open from November 17th, 2023 to January 15th, 2024. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and tickets can be purchased here.
8. See holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue
If you were in awe after seeing the Rockefeller Center tree, prepare to be mesmerized by holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue. With a quick walking distance away, luxury stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s create Instagram-worthy holiday displays that can be seen from the outside. Bright lights, snowmen, Christmas trees, and other elements are plastered for all to see. Once finished with Fifth Avenue holiday displays, Macy’s in the Herald Square area has a display set up throughout its windows.
9. Sip up a hot chocolate
View this post on Instagram
For chocolate lovers, there’s nothing better than experiencing a hot chocolate creation on a cold New York City day. The city has its fair share of spots that serve the sweet, indulging drink. Chocolate restaurant Max Brenner has a menu of hot chocolate drinks with choices of classic hot chocolate or ones that are infused with salted caramel, peanut butter, Oreo, and mocha flavors. There is a New York City location in Union Square and Bryant Park’s Winter Village currently has a pop-up location.
10. Enjoy a Candlelight Concert Series performance
View this post on Instagram
If looking for a unique live performance, head to a Candlelight Concert Series show and experience live music in a completely new way. These shows host live music performances under a candlelit setting to create a more intimate ambiance. Since the holidays are here, these candlelit concerts will be playing holiday-inspired music. There will be concerts held throughout different dates and locations in the city. A full list of this series’ events can be found here.
Will you be doing any of these New York City holiday activities?
Let us know in the comments!
