things to do in december nyc

December in New York City is a magical time of year, filled with festive events, iconic decorations, and endless activities to enjoy. Here are some things to do in NYC during December:

Holiday Events:

1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting: Witness the iconic tree lighting ceremony, usually held on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
2. Bryant Park Winter Village: Enjoy ice skating, holiday markets, and food vendors in a picturesque setting.
3. Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Catch the legendary Rockettes’ holiday show at Radio City Music Hall.
4. Macy’s Santaland: Visit Santa Claus on the 8th floor of Macy’s Herald Square.
5. New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show: Marvel at model trains zipping through a festive display of NYC landmarks.

Ice Skating:

1. Rockefeller Center Ice Rink: Skate beneath the iconic Christmas tree.
2. Bryant Park Ice Rink: Enjoy free ice skating in a scenic setting.
3. Wollman Rink in Central Park: Skate in the heart of Central Park.
4. Brookfield Place Ice Rink: Skate in a beautiful glass-enclosed atrium.

Holiday Markets:

1. Union Square Holiday Market: Browse over 150 vendors selling handmade goods, food, and drinks.
2. Bryant Park Winter Village Market: Shop and dine in a festive atmosphere.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Explore a market featuring local artisans and food vendors.
4. Brooklyn Flea’s Winter Flea: Discover unique gifts and souvenirs in a festive setting.

Special Events:

1. New Year’s Eve in Times Square: Watch the iconic ball drop and celebrate the start of a new year.
2. Holiday Lights Cruises: Take a cruise around Manhattan to see the city’s iconic landmarks and holiday lights.
3. Elf the Musical: Catch the hilarious Christmas classic on Broadway.
4. The Nutcracker: Enjoy the classic ballet at Lincoln Center.

Winter Activities:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at one of NYC’s nearby ski resorts, such as Bear Mountain or Mountain Creek.
2. Ice Hockey: Catch a Rangers game at Madison Square Garden.
3. Winter Hiking: Explore NYC’s beautiful parks, such as Central Park or Prospect Park, on a crisp winter day.
4. Spa Day: Relax and rejuvenate at one of NYC’s many luxurious spas.

These are just a few of the many things to do in NYC during December. Whether you’re interested in holiday events, ice skating, or special events, there’s something for everyone in the city that never sleeps!