Things To Do On Christmas Day In New York

New York City is an iconic destination for travelers from all around the world. It is a vibrant, bustling city full of energy, history, and culture. The city is well known for its towering skyscrapers, iconic attractions, and endless entertainment options. It is home to over 8.6 million people, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Christmas Day in New York offers plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday season. From festive activities in Central Park to holiday cheer on Broadway, here are some of the best things to do on Christmas Day in the Big Apple.

Visit Central Park

Central Park is one of the city’s most beloved attractions, and it’s the perfect spot to spend a relaxing day on Christmas. The park is filled with lush greenery, winding paths, and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. You can also explore one of the oldest buildings in the park, Belvedere Castle, which overlooks Turtle Pond and offers stunning views of the city skyline.

For those looking to get more active on Christmas Day, Central Park also offers plenty of recreational activities. You can skate at Wollman Rink, explore the many trails for biking or running, or take a leisurely stroll around the reservoir. There are also several holiday-themed attractions like carousel rides, outdoor ice rinks, and holiday light displays.

See a Broadway Show

Broadway is one of the most popular attractions in New York City, and it’s also one of the best places to visit on Christmas Day. The theaters are filled with holiday-themed shows such as The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. There are also long-running productions like The Lion King and Wicked that are sure to offer a festive experience. If you’re looking for something a bit more interactive, many theaters offer special family-friendly performances that include sing-alongs and meet-and-greets with the characters.

Go Shopping at Holiday Markets

Christmas may be a time for giving, but that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself too! New York City is full of holiday markets where you can find unique gifts from local vendors. Some of the most popular markets include the Union Square Holiday Market, which features over 150 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal food items. There is also the Grand Central Holiday Fair where you can find unique gifts from over 80 vendors. If you’re looking for something a bit more offbeat, you can also check out the Brooklyn Flea or one of the many pop-up shops scattered throughout the city.

Explore One World Trade Center

One World Trade Center is an iconic landmark in Lower Manhattan and it is also a great place to visit on Christmas Day. The observation deck at One World Trade Center offers panoramic views of the city skyline and beautiful views of Lady Liberty in the harbor. The memorial at the base of the tower is also worth checking out, as it pays homage to those who lost their lives in the September 11th attacks.

Ice Skating at Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a popular spot for ice skating in New York City and it’s also a great place to spend Christmas Day. The park has a large ice rink that offers public skating sessions throughout the day. There’s also an outdoor holiday market where you can find unique gifts and festive treats like hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.

See a Holiday Light Show

The holiday lights in New York City are something you have to see at least once in your life. One of the best places to experience them is at the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Festival in Brooklyn. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to this neighborhood to see the extravagant displays of lights and decorations that decorate homes throughout the area. The show runs through January 6th, so if you’re visiting on Christmas Day you’ll still be able to catch it.

Sample Holiday Treats

New York City is filled with delicious holiday treats that you won’t want to miss out on while you’re here. Some of the most popular treats include hot chocolate from Jacques Torres Chocolates, eggnog from Westville East Village, spiced cider from Big Apple Cider Tour, and apple cider doughnuts from Doughnut Plant. There are also plenty of restaurants offering traditional holiday dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.

Book a Tour

One of the best ways to take in all of New York City’s iconic sights on Christmas Day is to join a tour. There are several tours that offer special holiday experiences such as a Christmas Tree Lighting Tour or a Holiday Lights Bus Tour. You can also explore some of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods on foot with a guided walking tour of Greenwich Village or Soho.

Christmas Lights Bus Tour

Experience New York City’s iconic holiday lights from a comfortable bus seat with this popular tour. The tour takes you past some of New York’s most famous attractions such as Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square while illuminating them with thousands of twinkling lights. You can also take in views of Central Park illuminated for the season as well as some of NYC’s most spectacularly decorated neighborhoods like Dyker Heights and Brooklyn Heights. This tour is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit while viewing some of NYC’s most iconic sights! Book a Christmas Lights Bus Tour here.

Holiday Lights Tour by Bike

This two-hour tour takes you around some of New York City’s most iconic sites while highlighting all of their holiday decorations. The tour starts at Washington Square Park and travels around Little Italy, Chinatown, along the Brooklyn Bridge, and ends at Dumbo with breathtaking views of Manhattan lit up for Christmas. This is an excellent way to experience all that New York City has to offer during this festive time of year! Book a Holiday Lights Tour by Bike here.

No matter what your plans are for Christmas Day in New York City, there’s something for everyone. From exploring Central Park and checking out Broadway shows to sampling gourmet treats and taking part in festive activities, there’s no shortage of things to do on this special day!