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New York City during the holidays? Simply magical. From the twinkling lights of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the elaborate department store window displays on Fifth Avenue, there’s no place quite like NYC to get into the Christmas spirit. I absolutely live for this time of year in the city. The holidays bring out a certain childlike wonder, even in the locals.
Iconic NYC Holiday Activities
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
You can’t properly experience Christmas in New York without visiting the iconic Rockefeller Center tree. The early December lighting ceremony draws huge crowds for live performances and the big reveal. But don’t worry if you miss it—the tree stays illuminated into early January.
Just prepare for crowds if you go at peak times. I’d suggest aiming for early morning or late evenings for smaller crowds. And while you’re there, take a moment to appreciate the towering golden Prometheus statue behind the tree.
Taking in the Holiday Window Displays
The department stores showcase their A-game with beautiful decorations and animatronics. Macy’s windows kick off the route, before you head further north past Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue’s lights. Don’t miss Bergdorf Goodman’s displays, and finish up at Tiffany & Co. for some sparkling jewels.
Highly recommend going at night when the windows really shine. Finish up at Tiffany’s for some added sparkle.
Go at night to see the displays in all their bright glory. And watch out for crowds and selfie-stick-wielders!
Ice Skating Rinks
Skating with the lit Rockefeller Center tree in the background makes for a iconic holiday photo op. But expect it to be packed.
For more room, try the rink at Bryant Park. You can reward yourself with a hot chocolate from their nearby kiosks afterwards.
Just take it slow and hold that railing if you’re rusty on the ice. No one is judging your double axels here!
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Want an over-the-top stage show to spark that holiday magic? Look no further than the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the iconic Rockettes.
Between the prancing wooden soldiers, Santa swinging from a giant moon, and the Rockettes decked out in glamorous costumes, the whole spectacle really transports you into Christmas mode.
A few tips: Book tickets early because the popular shows sell out fast. And if you can spring for it, get seats closer to the stage. It’s worth it to see every sequin and feather up close, and fully appreciate the eye-popping projections.
Driving Through Dyker Heights’ Christmas Lights
If you wander around the Dyker Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn in December, you’ll think you stumbled into the North Pole. Every year, locals deck out their houses to the max with over-the-top light displays and lawn decorations.
Make sure to drive slowly through the brightly lit blocks, especially near 83rd to 86th streets.
Seasonal Events & Activities
Aside from the well-known traditions, there are plenty more festive happenings to check out around NYC during Christmastime.
- Sipping and Shopping at the Holiday Markets
I really enjoy walking around the Christmas markets. Support local vendors while checking gifting needs off your list.
And it’s way more fun to shop local than battling the crowds at the department stores.
- Visiting St. Nick at the Department Stores
Make sure to take your kids to see Santa at Macy’s or Bloomingdale’s. Of course, you’ll wait in a crazy long line so they can nervously whisper their lists to the big guy. But seeing those looks of awe and joy on their faces when Santa gives them a knowing wink makes it all worth it. Just be sure to make an appointment online ahead of time if you’re going to Macy’s!
- Seeing the City’s Holiday Side
If you want a new perspective on NYC during Christmas, consider a festive tour. Hop on a Christmas lights tour bus to gaze up at dazzling light shows on the iconic buildings. Or take a festive photo walk to explore decked-out neighborhoods and see behind-the-scenes holiday magic at places like Radio City. Just bundle up, charge your camera, and see the city in a whole new festive light.
- Taking in Concerts, Shows, and Performances
Take your pick of Christmas concerts at venues like Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center, plus Rockettes performances and Nutcracker ballets galore.
For a more unique experience, check out a Christmas burlesque or drag show. Or sing along at a place like Marie’s Crisis for some festive Broadway piano tunes.
- More Seasonal Sights to See
Some other Christmas activities I’d recommend include seeing the tree at the New York Stock Exchange, gazing at the holiday lights in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, taking a harbor cruise to see the waterfront decorations, or catching a Christmas Eve church service with beautiful choir music.
Where to Eat, Drink & Be Merry
- Christmas-Themed Pop-Ups
A fun trend in New York for the holidays are pop-up bars with over-the-top Christmas themes. I’m talking tacky Christmas sweaters, flashy decorations, and festive cocktails like Santa’s Cookies and Cream Martini.
Make a reservation ASAP at spots like Miracle on 9th Street or Santa’s Secret Speakeasy – they tend to sell out weekends. Wear your elf hat, knock back some spiked nog, and get your ho ho ho’s out.
- Booking a Christmas Dinner
For a more elegant holiday meal, make reservations at a nicer restaurant like Gramercy Tavern or Sesamo. Their special Christmas menus feature luxe takes on hearty classics like goose, beef Wellington, or tempura chicken parmesan.
Just be ready to pay those fancy holiday prix fixe prices, and show up hungry – you’ll want to try everything!
- Christmas Treats
And what would the season be without Christmas cookies and other sweet treats? Hit up William Greenberg for rainbow-hued holiday layer cakes, Mah-Ze-Dahr for beautifully decorated gingerbread, and Levain for their peppermint chocolate chip cookies.
You can’t go wrong with a custom Christmas cookie from City Cakes either. Just prepare for the sugar rush!
Final Thoughts
However you choose to celebrate the season, New York City shines bright during Christmas. The lights, crowds, chill in the air…it all comes together to create that special holiday magic.
Bundle up against the cold, check out the incredible light displays, sip on some hot cocoa or mulled wine, and let your inner child feel the wonder. There’s nowhere better than New York at Christmastime. The holidays bring out all the best of this city. The lights, the music, the excitement in the air—it’s hands-down the most magical time of year here. mbk
source https://sesamorestaurant.com/news/christmas-in-new-york-ultimate-holiday-guide/
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