Christmas Events In New York City: A Guide To The Best Celebrations
Experience the Magic of Christmas in New York City
As a lifelong New Yorker, I can confidently say that there is no better place to celebrate Christmas than in the Big Apple. The streets are filled with twinkling lights, the air is crisp and cold, and the city is alive with holiday spirit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of Christmas events in New York City that you won’t want to miss.
The Best Christmas Events in New York City
From ice skating at Rockefeller Center to watching the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, there are endless ways to celebrate Christmas in New York City. Here are some of the must-see events:
- Ice skating at Rockefeller Center
- Watching the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall
- Visiting the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center
- Walking through the holiday markets in Union Square and Bryant Park
- Seeing the holiday lights and decorations in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
- Attending the Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center
- Going on a holiday lights tour of the city
- Visiting the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show
- Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
- Attending a Christmas concert at Carnegie Hall
Christmas Events Table in New York City
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center | November 1 – April 15 | Rockefeller Center |
| The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall | November 5 – January 2 | Radio City Music Hall |
| The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center | December 1 – January 7 | Rockefeller Center |
| Union Square Holiday Market | November 18 – December 24 | Union Square |
| Bryant Park Winter Village | October 29 – January 2 | Bryant Park |
| Dyker Heights Christmas Lights | December 1 – January 6 | Dyker Heights, Brooklyn |
| The Nutcracker Ballet | November 26 – January 2 | Lincoln Center |
| Holiday Lights Tour | November 29 – January 4 | Various Locations |
| NYBG Holiday Train Show | November 20 – January 9 | New York Botanical Garden |
| Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade | November 24 | Various Locations |
| Christmas Concerts at Carnegie Hall | December 1 – 24 | Carnegie Hall |
Questions and Answers about Christmas Events in New York City
Q: When is the best time to visit New York City for Christmas?
A: The holiday season in New York City typically runs from November through January. However, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, plan your trip for December. If you want to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, plan your trip for late November.
Q: How much does it cost to go ice skating at Rockefeller Center?
A: Ice skating at Rockefeller Center costs $25-$35 per person, depending on the date and time. Skate rentals are an additional $13. Lockers and bag check are available for an additional fee.
Q: Are there any Christmas events that are free to attend?
A: Yes! The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and the holiday markets in Union Square and Bryant Park are all free to attend. The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are also free to view, but you’ll need to pay for transportation to get there.
Q: What is the dress code for the Nutcracker Ballet?
A: The dress code for the Nutcracker Ballet is typically business casual or dressy casual. However, there is no strict dress code, so you can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Conclusion
Christmas in New York City is truly a magical experience. From ice skating at Rockefeller Center to watching the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, there are endless ways to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, be sure to check out some of the best Christmas events in New York City this year.