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:

  1. 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.
  2. Ice Skating: NYC has many outdoor ice skating rinks during Christmas, including:

    • Rockefeller Center
    • Bryant Park
    • Central Park (Wollman Rink)
    • Brookfield Place
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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!

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