things to do in new york at christmas
New York City during Christmas is a magical experience. Here are some things to do in New York at Christmas:
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A classic NYC Christmas tradition. Ice skate at the rink, see the tree lighting ceremony, and take in the festive atmosphere.
- Ice Skating: NYC has many outdoor ice skating rinks during Christmas, including:
- Rockefeller Center
- Bryant Park
- Central Park (Wollman Rink)
- Brookfield Place
- Holiday Markets:
- Bryant Park Winter Village: Shop, eat, and drink at this annual market.
- Union Square Holiday Market: Find unique gifts and try local foods.
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Located in front of the Time Warner Center.
- Christmas Lights and Displays:
- Dyker Heights, Brooklyn: A neighborhood famous for its over-the-top holiday lights and decorations.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: The iconic department store’s light show is a must-see.
- Bergdorf Goodman: Another iconic department store with stunning holiday displays.
- Holiday Shows and Performances:
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular: The Rockettes’ annual holiday show.
- New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker: A classic holiday ballet.
- Elf the Musical: A fun and festive musical based on the Will Ferrell movie.
- Christmas Shopping:
- Fifth Avenue: Shop at iconic department stores like Saks, Bergdorf’s, and Tiffany & Co.
- SoHo: Find unique gifts and boutiques in this trendy neighborhood.
- Brookfield Place: An upscale shopping center with a beautiful winter garden.
- Holiday Food and Drink:
- Try a classic NYC hot dog or pretzel from a street vendor.
- Visit the iconic Serendipity 3 for a decadent hot chocolate.
- Enjoy a holiday-themed cocktail at a rooftop bar like 230 Fifth.
- Take a Holiday Tour:
- NYC Christmas Lights Tour: A guided tour of the city’s best holiday lights and displays.
- Holiday Markets Tour: Visit multiple markets in one day with a guided tour.
- Christmas Movie Sites Tour: Visit iconic locations from holiday movies like Elf and Home Alone 2.
- Attend a Holiday Event:
- The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Rockefeller Center.
- The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden.
- The Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History.
- Visit a Winter Wonderland:
- The Winter Wonderland in Central Park: An annual event with ice skating, shopping, and food.
- The Brookfield Place Winter Garden: A beautiful glass-enclosed atrium with a winter wonderland theme.
Remember to check dates and times for each event, as they may vary from year to year. Happy holidays!