Every Christmas season in NYC is a magical experience for visitors. When snow falls to the ground and logs walk on the street illuminated by lights, this corner feels alive in a special way. If you are wondering what are the things to do in New York City during Christmas time, here we have brought you a comprehensive guide that will make your trip memorable.
Seeing the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center’s famous Christmas Tree is an iconic landmark that is decorated every year in the month of December. This tree is located in the heart of Manhattan and captivates every visitor with its celestial beauty. The lights and sparkling ornaments here make the night like a dream. Taking photos while visiting here is a must-do activity that will keep you remembering the Christmas season in NYC.
Enjoy ice skating
Skating on the Rockefeller Center ice-skating rink is a quintessential Christmas experience. This rink is open to everyone, big or small, and makes you feel a movie-like moment. If you want to skate somewhere less crowded, the rinks at Bryant Park and Central Park are also great options. Ice skating in Central Park is like playing a part of a Christmas postcard.
Shopping in Holiday Markets
The holiday markets during the Christmas season in NYC also have their own charm. Bryant Park’s Winter Village is a place where you can find handmade gifts, Christmas ornaments, and unique souvenirs from local vendors. The Union Square Holiday Market and Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair are also famous where you can enjoy special gifts and delicious festive treats.
Saks Fifth Avenue’s Light Show
Christmas shopping on Fifth Avenue is a unique experience in itself, but the Saks Fifth Avenue light show is worth seeing. Every year, the spring portion of the Saks store is decorated with a celestial light show featuring synchronized music and a stream of lights. This show happens every 10 minutes and watching it while eating here becomes a beautiful memory.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour
The name of Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is on everyone’s lips during Christmas. Here local residents decorate their homes with extravagant Christmas lights and decorations. Looking at the entire neighborhood it seems as if you have entered a Christmas wonderland. Here you can also take guided tours or explore on your own in the car.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular is one such show which is loved by the people of every age. The star performance of this show is the precision dance of the Rockettes, which is presented with different themes every year. This performance presents the spirit of Christmas with pure glamor and is a must-watch show for every visitor.
St. Visit to Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral at Christmas time is a spiritual and architectural experience. In this iconic church you can also watch Christmas Eve Mass which creates a divine aura. The stained glass windows and grand decor of the house make it even more special.
The Nutcracker Ballet
Seeing The Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center is a classical part of the NYC Christmas experience. The Christmas story is presented with a mesmerizing dance and music through George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. This is a show which is a treat for every ballet lover.
Christmas Window Displays
Every year, NYC’s department stores beautifully decorate their window displays on the theme of Christmas. Stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Bergdorf Goodman decorate their windows with artistic stories and Christmas scenes. Every window has a different theme which takes people on a magical journey. Taking photos here and admiring the window displays is something no NYC visitor should miss.
Central Park Mein Ghoomna
Seeing Central Park covered in snow is an experience in itself. You can enjoy horse-drawn carriage ride here which makes the Christmas night even more memorable. The beauty and peace of this place takes you away from the busy life of NYC and makes you feel a calm and festive atmosphere.
Holiday Train Show in the Botanical Garden
Bronx Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show is a great option when you want to have a unique experience with the family. Here, miniature NYC landmarks are made from plants and natural materials, and model trains run between them. This show is very engaging especially for children.
Christmas Caroling at Washington Square Park
Christmas Caroling in Washington Square Park is an old tradition that gathers New Yorkers every year. Here local choirs and groups join together to sing traditional Christmas songs. This is a joyful and part of the community spirit in which you can participate and make your Christmas experience even more pleasant.
Conclusion
There are so many things to do at Christmas time in NYC that every visitor can customize their trip. By adding this guide to your itinerary, you can make your NYC Christmas trip a memorable and unforgettable experience. Every activity, whether it’s ice-skating or shopping at the holiday markets, will make you feel that NYC’s festive season has a different light and excitement. The night’s twinkling lights, blaring music, and festive cheer will make you feel like NYC is the capital of Christmas.
