Best Christmas Activities in NYC

New York City is a magical place at Christmas time. Every year, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, with stunning decorations, festive lights, and endless holiday festivities. From iconic holiday markets to iconic shows and performances, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer in NYC.

Whether you’re a local looking for something to do or a tourist visiting for the first time, here is a guide to some of the best Christmas activities in New York City.

A Brief History of Christmas in NYC

Christmas in New York City has a long and storied history. The first recorded celebration of Christmas in the city was in 1626, when Dutch settlers in what is modern-day Brooklyn celebrated the holiday with a feast. Throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the holiday was celebrated with parades, parties, and other festivities.

In the early twentieth century, the city began to adopt some of the holiday traditions that we associate with Christmas today. Commercial decorations, such as Christmas trees and lights, began to appear in department stores and other businesses. And, of course, the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was first erected in 1931.

A Guide to NYC’s Best Christmas Activities

From iconic holiday attractions to festive events, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in New York City at Christmas time. Here is a guide to some of the best Christmas activities in NYC:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic attractions of the holiday season. Every year, a giant Norway Spruce is decorated with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and crowned with a Swarovski star that stands more than 12 feet tall. The tree is lit every year during an official lighting ceremony that takes place in early December, kicking off the holiday season in NYC.

Visiting the tree is free and open to the public. Visitors can enjoy carolers, holiday music performances, and even ice-skating at Rockefeller Center’s iconic rink.

Holiday Markets

New York City is home to some of the world’s most iconic holiday markets. From Union Square’s Holiday Market to Bryant Park’s Winter Village, visitors can find unique gifts and handmade crafts from some of the city’s best artisans.

Visitors can also enjoy festive treats like hot cocoa, roasted chestnuts, spiced cider, and more. The markets are open throughout December and offer a great way to get into the holiday spirit while checking off your shopping list.

Holiday Shows

The city is home to some of the best holiday shows and performances around, from The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center to A Christmas Carol at Madison Square Garden. These spectacular shows offer something for all ages and are sure to get you into the holiday spirit.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in New York City. Visitors can take a spin around some of the city’s most iconic rinks, such as The Rink at Rockefeller Center or Wollman Rink in Central Park. Both offer spectacular views of the city skyline and are great for an hour (or two) of winter fun.

Tour The Holiday Lights

New York City lights up during the holidays with stunning decorations and festive lights. Visitors can take a tour of the holiday lights on one of the city’s many bus or walking tours. These tours offer a great way to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks decked out for the holidays, from Times Square to Fifth Avenue.

Christmas Day Activities

On Christmas Day itself, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in NYC. From holiday movies at the IFC Center to special performances at Carnegie Hall and Music Hall, there’s something for everyone on Christmas Day. Visitors can also take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around Central Park or take a stroll through one of the city’s many parks and gardens.

Recommended Tours

If you’re looking to explore all that New York City has to offer during the holidays, there are plenty of great tours that can help you make the most out of your trip. Here are two popular tours that will show you all the best sights of NYC during the holiday season:

New York City Holiday Lights Tour

This two-hour tour takes visitors on a magical journey through the most festive parts of New York City during the holidays. From Times Square to Rockefeller Center, visitors will see all of the city’s iconic holiday sights illuminated by twinkling lights. The tour also includes festive drinks and treats, making it perfect for a romantic evening or family outing. Book a New York City Holiday Lights Tour here.

Christmas Shopping Tour

This four-hour tour takes visitors on a shopping spree through some of New York City’s best holiday markets. From Union Square to Bryant Park, visitors will have plenty of time to shop for unique gifts and handmade crafts. The tour also includes stops at iconic department stores such as Macy’s and Bloomingdales, as well as festive snacks and drinks along the way. Book a Christmas Shopping Tour here.

Conclusion

Christmas in New York City is an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. From iconic attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to festive events like holiday markets and shows, there’s something for everyone in NYC during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a family outing, these activities are sure to get you into the holiday spirit in no time!