Best New York City Christmas Events and Activities 2024

How to Spend Christmas in New York City and Where to Be

New York City shines brightest during the holiday season, offering an endless array of activities that promise to create lasting memories. From iconic landmarks to festive performances, here’s your guide to celebrating Christmas in the city that never sleeps.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Nothing captures the holiday spirit like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a beloved NYC tradition for more than eight decades. Towering high above the plaza, the tree is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and topped with a shining star. Whether you attend the tree lighting ceremony or simply admire its glow during a stroll through the plaza, this is an essential holiday experience. Combine your visit with ice skating at the adjacent rink for the ultimate NYC Christmas vibe.

• Date: Tree lighting ceremony on December 4, 2024
• Hours: Illuminated daily from 5 a.m. to midnight; 24 hours on Christmas Eve; New Year’s Eve until 9 p.m.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular 

Get ready for a dazzling show featuring the world-famous Radio City Rockettes. This annual extravaganza combines high-energy dance numbers, enchanting visuals, and holiday classics into an unforgettable spectacle. Whether it’s the iconic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” or the awe-inspiring living Nativity scene, the Christmas Spectacular is perfect for all ages. Book your tickets early, as this beloved tradition sells out quickly.

• Dates: November 8, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Showtimes: Multiple performances daily
• Tickets: Starting at $60, Click here to see options.

Ice Skating at Wollman Rink, Central Park

Central Park transforms into a serene winter escape during the holidays, and Wollman Rink is one of its crown jewels. With the city skyline as your backdrop, skating here feels like stepping into a classic holiday movie. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skater, this outdoor rink offers a charming way to embrace the season. Warm up with hot cocoa from nearby vendors after your skate.

• Season: November 20, 2024 – March 2025
• Admission: $12–$19 for adults, click here to buy; skate rentals are extra
• Location: Central Park, accessible from multiple entrances

New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

The New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show is a breathtaking display of artistry and engineering. The show features model trains zipping through replicas of NYC landmarks, all crafted from bark, leaves, and other natural materials. Perfect for families or anyone looking to soak in the season’s magic, this exhibit is an enchanting combination of nostalgia and wonder.

• Dates: November 23, 2024 – January 18, 2025
• Admission: $49 for adults. Click here to purchase.
• Location: Bronx, New York

The Plaza Hotel: A ‘Home Alone’ Christmas

Step into cinematic history with a visit to The Plaza Hotel, famously featured in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. During the holidays, the hotel embraces its movie legacy by offering themed experiences and luxurious seasonal packages. Indulge in festive dining, admire the ornate decorations, or even book the “Kevin McCallister” suite for the ultimate holiday getaway.

SantaCon

If you prefer a more boisterous holiday celebration, SantaCon is the event for you. Join thousands of revelers dressed as Santa Claus as they parade through NYC, spreading holiday cheer—and perhaps a little mischief—at bars and landmarks across the city. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities, making it a festive and feel-good way to celebrate.

• Date: December 14, 2024
• Time: Begins at 10 a.m.
• Cost: $15 and up. Click here to see options.

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park

Bryant Park's Winter Village is a one-stop holiday wonderland featuring an open-air market, cozy food stalls, local vendors and a free-admission ice skating rink. Whether you're shopping for unique gifts, savoring seasonal treats, or gliding across the ice, the village has something for everyone. Stay into the evening to enjoy the twinkling holiday lights and festive atmosphere.

• Dates: October 25, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Admission: Free; learn more here.
• Hours: Market and rink hours vary

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top holiday decorations, with homes decked out in twinkling lights, inflatables, and elaborate nativity scenes. This self-guided tour is a must for anyone who loves festive flair. The lights are best viewed at dusk, and the experience is made even better with a cup of hot cocoa in hand.

• Dates: Mid-December through New Year’s Eve
• Hours: Lights typically run from dusk to 9 p.m.
• Admission: Free. Learn more here.

Mariah Carey’s Christmas Concert - Tour Dates in NYC

End your holiday season on a high note with the “Queen of Christmas” herself, Mariah Carey. Her holiday concert series includes iconic songs like “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and promises an evening of unparalleled festivity. Don’t miss this chance to see her perform live in some of the region’s top venues.

• Dates and Locations:
  • December 13, 2024: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
  • December 15, 2024: UBS Arena, Belmont Park, NY
  • December 17, 2024: Madison Square Garden, NYC
• Tickets: On sale now; VIP and Verizon customer options available. Purchase here.

With so many dazzling options, NYC truly comes alive during the holidays. Whether you're seeking timeless traditions or something a little more modern, there's no shortage of festive fun to be had!

Elf The Musical on Broadway

Bring the magic of the holiday season to life with Elf The Musical, a heartwarming Broadway production based on the beloved movie. Follow Buddy the Elf’s hilarious and heartwarming journey as he brings Christmas cheer to everyone he meets. Perfect for families and fans of all ages, the show combines laughter, music, and holiday spirit into an unforgettable performance.

• Dates: Limited engagement throughout December 2024
• Showtimes: Matinee and evening performances available
• Tickets: Prices start at $50. Click here to purchase.

‍

A few of the links in this blog are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing helpful content. Thank you for your support