New York City at Christmas transforms into a lively winter scene. Streets sparkle with lights, carolers fill the air with holiday tunes, and festive decorations give the city a distinct energy. Families and friends gather over special meals while iconic landmarks glow in their seasonal best.
In this guide, we highlight the top things to do on Christmas Day in New York City, so you can make the most of the holiday atmosphere and enjoy the city at its seasonal peak.
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Table of Content
- 12 Best Things to Do on Christmas Day in New York City
- 1. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- 2. Go ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park
- 3. Visit Dyker Heights in Brooklyn to see the Christmas lights
- 4. See the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
- 5. See the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall
- 6. Visit the Bronx Zoo to see the holiday light show
- 7. See the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
- 8. Visit the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
- 9. See the lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- 10. See the Holiday Window Displays at Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue & More
- 11. See a Broadway Show
- 12. Attend a Christmas concert or service
- Conclusion
- FAQs
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12 Best Things to Do on Christmas Day in New York City
During the holidays, New York offers a variety of experiences that suit different tastes and budgets. From seasonal markets to festive performances and outdoor sights, there are plenty of ways to spend Christmas Day in the city. This guide also includes free activities, helping you plan a full day of holiday experiences without missing out on the festive spirit.
1. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Start your day by gazing at the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Its shimmering lights and towering presence are a sight to behold. Feel the holiday spirit wash over you as you join the crowds of enthusiastic onlookers.
Location: Rockefeller Center Plaza, between 5th and 6th Avenues, and between 49th and 50th Streets.
Highlights:
- The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic Christmas trees in the world. It is typically a Norway spruce that is over 70 feet tall and weighs over 12 tons.
- The tree is decorated with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and a Swarovski star that is over 9 feet in diameter and weighs over 550 pounds.
- The tree lighting ceremony is a major event in New York City and is typically held on the Wednesday following Thanksgiving.
- The tree remains on display until January 6th of the following year.
2. Go ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park
Enjoy a playful day on the ice at Wollman Rink in Central Park. Skate beneath the winter sky and make moments that stay with you for years.
Location: 830 5th Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
Highlights:
- Wollman Rink is one of the most popular ice skating rinks in New York City. It is located in the heart of Central Park, making it a perfect place to enjoy the winter weather and the festive holiday atmosphere.
- The rink is open from October to April and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
- Wollman Rink is also a popular spot for private events, such as weddings and corporate outings.
3. Visit Dyker Heights in Brooklyn to see the Christmas lights
Take a trip to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, where the locals turn their homes into dazzling displays of holiday lights. It’s a true spectacle that will leave you speechless.
Location: Dyker Heights is a neighborhood in the southwest corner of Brooklyn, New York City. It is bordered by 11th Avenue to the east, 13th Avenue to the west, 83rd Street to the north, and 86th Street to the south.
Highlights:
- Dyker Heights is known for its over-the-top Christmas light displays. Many homeowners in the neighborhood go all out with their decorations, which is a truly magical sight to behold.
- The displays typically start to go up around Thanksgiving and stay up until after New Year’s Day.
- The best time to visit Dyker Heights to see the lights is in the evening when they are all turned on.
- There are a few different ways to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights. You can drive through the neighborhood, take a bus tour, or walk around and admire the displays up close.
4. See the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
Step into a world of miniature trains and enchanting landscapes at the New York Botanical Garden. It’s a charming experience for the whole family.
Location: The New York Botanical Garden is located at 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458, United States.
Highlights:
- The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is a must-see for anyone visiting New York City during the holiday season. It is one of the largest and most elaborate train shows in the world.
- The show features over 25 G-scale model trains and trolleys that chug along nearly a half-mile of track.
- The trains travel through miniature replicas of New York landmarks, all made from natural materials such as bark, leaves, and twigs.
5. See the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall
The Radio City Rockettes’ precision dancing and stunning costumes are a holiday tradition. Catch a performance that will leave you in awe.
Location: Radio City Music Hall is located at 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020, United States. It is easily accessible by subway, bus, or car.
Highlights:
- The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes is a New York City holiday tradition that has been running for over 80 years.
- The show features the iconic Rockettes dancers performing high-energy precision dance routines, as well as singing, comedy, and live animals.
- The show is set in a winter wonderland and features some of the most iconic Christmas songs, such as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “Jingle Bells.”
- The Christmas Spectacular is a must-see for anyone visiting New York City during the holiday season. It is a fun and festive experience for the whole family.
6. Visit the Bronx Zoo to see the holiday light show
Explore the Bronx Zoo’s twinkling Holiday Light Show, where the animals and exhibits come to life in the glow of thousands of lights.
Location: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, United States
Highlights:
- The Holiday Light Show at the Bronx Zoo is a truly magical experience. The zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 2 million lights, animated displays, and live music.
- Visitors can walk through the zoo and see animals from all over the world illuminated in festive lights. There are also special events and activities throughout the night, such as ice skating, carousel rides, and visits with Santa Claus.
- The Holiday Light Show is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and see the Bronx Zoo in a whole new light.
7. See the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Don’t miss the captivating light show at Saks Fifth Avenue. It’s a mesmerizing display of holiday magic that will leave you in wonder.
Location: Saks Fifth Avenue is located at 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States. It is located on Fifth Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets, in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.
Highlights:
- The Saks Fifth Avenue light show is a New York City holiday tradition that has been running for over 40 years.
- The show features a dazzling display of lights and music that is projected onto the facade of the Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store.
- The show is set to a variety of holiday songs and features images of Christmas trees, snowflakes, and other holiday symbols.
- The Saks Fifth Avenue light show is a must-see for anyone visiting New York City during the holiday season. It is a free and festive experience for the whole family.
8. Visit the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park turns into a winter village filled with charming shops, an ice skating rink, and a sense of holiday cheer that’s hard to beat.
Location: Bryant Park is located between 40th and 42nd Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan.
Highlights:
- The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is a free, open-air holiday market and skating rink.
- The market features over 170 shops selling unique gifts, food, and drinks.
- The rink is open from October to March and is one of the most popular ice skating rinks in New York City.
- The Winter Village also features a variety of family-friendly activities, such as ice skating shows, story time with Mrs. Claus, and visits with Santa Claus.
9. See the lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden transforms into an illuminated paradise during the holiday season. Stroll through the radiant gardens and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere.
Location: 900 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, United States
Highlights:
- The Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a dazzling display of over a million lights that transforms the garden into a winter wonderland.
- The lights are arranged in a variety of creative and festive displays, including illuminated trees, flowers, and animals.
- Visitors can walk through the garden and enjoy the lights at their own pace.
- There is also a special Lightscape café that serves seasonal food and drinks.
10. See the Holiday Window Displays at Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue & More
Take a leisurely walk along Fifth Avenue to marvel at the elaborate holiday window displays in department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Location:
- Macy’s Herald Square is located at 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001, United States. Saks Fifth Avenue is located at 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States.
- Other notable department stores with holiday window displays include Bergdorf Goodman (754 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States) and
- Bloomingdale’s (1000 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States).
Highlights:
- The holiday window displays at Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and other department stores are a New York City tradition.
- The displays feature elaborate and creative scenes that will delight visitors of all ages.
- The displays are typically unveiled in late November and remain on view through the holiday season.
- Many department stores also offer special events and activities related to their window displays, such as meet-and-greets with Santa Claus and story time for kids.
11. See a Broadway Show
Make your evening unforgettable by catching a Broadway show. The city’s theaters come alive with captivating performances that leave you spellbound.
Location: Broadway theaters are located in Midtown Manhattan, between 41st and 53rd Streets and between Sixth and Eighth Avenues.
Highlights:
- Broadway shows are known for their high production values, talented casts, and catchy songs.
- There is a wide variety of Broadway shows, including musicals, plays, and comedies.
- Many Broadway shows are family-friendly, making them a great option for a Christmas Day outing.
Popular Broadway shows:
- The Lion King
- Wicked
- Hamilton
- Chicago
- The Phantom of the Opera
- Aladdin
- The Book of Mormon
- Dear Evan Hansen
- Come From Away
- Moulin Rouge! The Musical
- Tina: The Tina Turner Musical
- Hadestown
12. Attend a Christmas concert or service
Location: There are many churches and concert halls in New York City that host Christmas concerts and services. Some popular options include:
- Christmas Concert at St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Fifth Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets, New York, NY 10019)
- The New York Philharmonic Christmas Concerts at David Geffen Hall (10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023)
- The New York Philharmonic Christmas Concerts at David Geffen Hall (10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023)
- Christmas at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine (1047 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10025)
- Christmas with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (175 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11238)
Highlights:
- Christmas concerts and services are a great way to celebrate the holiday season with your loved ones.
- Many concerts and services feature talented musicians and performers.
- Christmas concerts and services are often held in beautiful and historic buildings.
Conclusion
Christmas Day in New York City is a true embodiment of holiday splendor. The city’s beauty shines brighter, becoming a canvas for unforgettable memories and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If I am not mistaken, you got your answer, “How can I make Christmas special? “As we conclude our guide on the best things to do on Christmas Day in New York City, we encourage you to plan your next magical Christmas in New York City. Check out our upcoming tourist blogs for more valuable insights and tips.
Christmas magic awaits you in New York City!
FAQs
For a unique NYC Christmas experience, skip the crowds and explore local favorites. Attend community holiday markets like Brooklyn Flea, stroll through festive neighborhoods like Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, or enjoy a quiet walk along the West Side waterfront with city views. Hidden gems like the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden or small jazz performances in cozy bars offer a more intimate celebration.
Yes, several travel agencies and hotels offer Christmas packages in NYC. These often include accommodations, tickets to iconic shows like the Radio City Rockettes, guided holiday tours, and special dining experiences. Packages vary by budget and duration, ranging from one-day experiences to multi-night stays, making it easier for visitors to enjoy New York’s holiday festivities without extensive planning.
December in NYC offers seasonal activities beyond the typical tourist spots. Try ice skating at Bryant Park’s Winter Village, join a festive cooking or cocktail class, or take a night-time holiday lights walking tour in historic neighborhoods. You can also experience pop-up holiday bars, seasonal art installations, or rooftop views of the city decked out in holiday lights for a one-of-a-kind winter experience.
New York City offers several free holiday experiences. Admire the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, explore the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, or enjoy seasonal decorations in public spaces like Bryant Park and Grand Central Terminal. Many neighborhoods, such as Dyker Heights, offer free outdoor light displays, and some churches host free concerts or caroling events for locals and visitors alike.
Couples can enjoy a festive and romantic NYC Christmas by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, ice skating together at Wollman Rink, or watching holiday lights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden or Dyker Heights. Dinner cruises on the Hudson River provide scenic views of the city skyline and fireworks, while cozy rooftop bars and intimate jazz lounges add a warm, romantic touch to the holiday season.
Christmas in New York is celebrated with lights, decorations, and seasonal events across the city. Residents and visitors enjoy iconic traditions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the Radio City Rockettes show, festive window displays, holiday markets, and ice skating. Neighborhoods host local events, caroling, and light displays, creating a mix of citywide spectacle and community gatherings that make New York’s Christmas both grand and personal.
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