Things to do in New York at Christmas
Things to do in New York at Christmas include ice skating at one of the rinks, seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, exploring Dyker Heights, attending the show of the Rockettes in Radio City, and many more. NYC is dressed for the holidays with festive lights and decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere throughout the streets. There are plenty of exciting things to do in New York at Christmas for everyone.
Want to know all about Christmas in New York? Subscribe to my newsletter here and stay up to date!
Best things to do in NYC at Christmas
In December New York transforms into a magical place full of lights and festivities, so there’ll be a lot of iconic things to do at Christmas time in New York. From Holiday essentials to festive dining options, here you’ll find all the must-see in NYC at Christmas.

Christmas Time in New York 2025
Christmas time in New York is really special. The atmosphere is indescribable; you’ll be amazed by the countless lights and festive decorations. For Americans, Christmas is an important holiday and…

Christmas in New York 2025
Christmas in New York is enchanting. Americans love to decorate their homes, and the shops extravagantly adorn their windows with festive decorations. The city is always beautifully illuminated but at…

Christmas Itinerary for New York
A Christmas itinerary for New York will help you plan your trip and make sure you don’t miss anything in the city during the holiday period. There are countless activities…

What is open on Christmas Day in New York?
What is open on Christmas Day in New York? Because Americans also celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December, opening times may be different on this day. Attractions and sights…
Christmas Attractions and Activities
One of the most popular Christmas attractions in New York is Rockefeller Center and the majestic Christmas Tree. For many, ice skating right under the tree in the Rockefeller Center Rink is a bucket list item. And speaking of holiday decor and lights, the neighbourhood of Dyker Heights welcomes you with its extravagantly decorated American houses. You can do anything in December with a hint of the holiday spirit, including taking a sightseeing cruise. If you’re lucky, it may even snow as you’re walking around Central Park.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour is something you shouldn’t miss if you are in New York during the Christmas season. In Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, you can expect amazing over-the-top…

Christmas Spirit Cruise in New York
The Christmas Spirit Cruise in New York is an atmospheric sightseeing cruise in December. The beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline and the winter ambience make this boat trip a…

Ice Skating in New York
From October everyone can go ice skating in New York. The hot spots for ice skating in New York are Rockefeller Center and Central Park but there are more rinks….

Christmas Eve Dinner Cruises in New York 2025
Christmas Eve dinner cruises in New York are a perfect option if you want to do something truly festive and unique for Christmas. Skip the busy restaurants and relax by…
Watching a Christmas Show
Attending one of New York Christmas shows is the ultimate way to get into the holiday spirit. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, for example, has been bringing joy and holiday cheer to people since 1933, and I must say, Christmas would not be the same without it! Witness beautiful music, intricate choreography and stunning visuals in stories that capture the magic of the holiday season, each in their own way!

Christmas Shows in New York 2025
Buy your tickets to the Christmas Shows in New York before you travel. Buying theatre tickets online is safe, simple and, above all will save you time and money! There…

Radio City Christmas Spectacular Tickets
Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a magical Christmas show for the whole family, starring the Rockettes. The show, which premiered in 1933, has become a true New York Christmas tradition…

The Nutcracker in New York Tickets
Buy The Nutcracker in New York tickets before you leave. It’s safe and easy to purchase Ballet tickets online. You can see The New York City Ballet perform The Nutcracker…

The Magic Flute in New York
The Magic Flute (Die Zauberflöte) in New York is performed every year during the Christmas season by the Metropolitan Opera. Visit the Metropolitan Opera House in Lincoln Center to see…

The Rockettes
The Rockettes are a world-famous dance troupe known for their high-kicking precision and stunning stage performances. Based in New York City, the Rockettes have been a holiday tradition at Radio…
Christmas Events
The Christmas time in New York officially kicks off after Thanksgiving celebrations. The biggest Christmas event in New York is undoubtedly the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting which is annually celebrated in a huge ceremony broadcast live from NYC. Many Christmas trees have their own lighting ceremonies, not to mention the lighting of the world’s largest menorah for Hanukkah across from the famous Plaza Hotel, another Christmas icon. There are also many Holiday concerts, shows and other festive things to do in New York in December.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2025
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is a big celebration in New York and there is a real ceremony beforehand. It gets very busy at Rockefeller Center during the ceremony,…

Vintage Trains in New York
Vintage trains in New York run every year during the Christmas season. These Holiday Nostalgia Rides (“Nostalgia Shoppers’ Special Train” or “Nostalgia Train”) ride every Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00….

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree has arrived in New York!
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree symbolises the Christmas spirit in New York. The Rockefeller Tree made its debut in 1931 when construction workers working on Rockefeller Center set up a small…
Shopping
Shopping in New York around Christmas is quite the experience! Stroll through the merry city watching the holiday window displays and doing Christmas shopping at Fifth Avenue stores. At Macy’s, the holiday celebrations include an entire floor dedicated to Christmas. And no trip would be complete without a visit to the Christmas markets. Aside from unique gifts and souvenirs, you’ll find a wide range of Christmas ornaments, decorations, local crafts, and winterwear here. Or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, holiday music and seasonal treats.

Christmas Markets in New York 2025
Christmas markets in New York, like the Union Square Christmas Market, are very popular. It’s a dream of many to visit New York during Christmas once. The Christmas decorations and…

Macy’s in New York
Macy’s in New York is the biggest department store in the city. It actually covers a whole block, on Herald Square and has 11 floors. Macy’s is a one-stop shop…