December in New York City: More Than Just the Ball Drop
There’s something undeniably magical about New York City in December. The air crackles with anticipation. The city transforms into a glittering, festive wonderland. Everyone seems just a little bit more cheerful, a little bit more willing to brave the cold for the sake of holiday cheer. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the ice skating rinks scattered throughout the city to the bustling holiday markets, NYC is the place to be in December.
But with so much going on, it can be overwhelming. Where do you even start? How do you avoid the tourist traps and truly experience the best the city has to offer during the holiday season? That’s where this guide comes in. We’re here to help both tourists and residents navigate the amazing array of december events in New York City so you can make the most of this special time of year.
We’ll cover everything from the iconic attractions you absolutely have to see to the best family-friendly activities, unique cultural experiences, and practical tips for getting around and staying warm. Get ready to experience the magic of December in NYC like a pro!
Iconic Christmas Attractions and Experiences
New York City in December is like something out of a movie. The city practically sparkles with holiday spirit, and there are certain attractions that just scream “Christmas in NYC!” Here are a few must-see spots:
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Ah, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. It’s the symbol of the holiday season in New York. Every year, thousands gather (and millions more watch on TV) for the annual tree lighting ceremony. It’s a big deal!
And the tree itself? It’s a behemoth. We’re talking a Norway spruce typically over 75 feet tall, adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights. And don’t forget the Swarovski star on top – it’s a dazzling masterpiece. Be prepared for crowds, though. Seriously. If you want to actually see the tree without being crushed, try visiting during the early morning or on a weekday.
Ice Skating in the City
What’s more festive than gliding across the ice with the city skyline as your backdrop? NYC has several iconic ice skating rinks to choose from:
Wollman Rink in Central Park
Wollman Rink is a classic. It’s got that old-school charm and the views of Central Park are unbeatable. There is an admission fee, and you can rent skates there. Again, weekdays and early mornings are your best bet for avoiding the biggest crowds.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
This is another iconic spot. Lace up your skates and twirl in the shadow of the famous Christmas tree. It’s touristy, but it’s a classic for a reason.
Bryant Park Winter Village Ice Rink
The Bryant Park Winter Village Ice Rink is unique because admission is free! That makes it super popular, but the festive atmosphere and the surrounding holiday market make it worth braving the crowds.
Fifth Avenue Window Displays
Prepare to be amazed by the elaborate and creative window displays along Fifth Avenue. Department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue go all out, creating miniature winter wonderlands that are truly a sight to behold.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Speaking of Saks, don’t miss their spectacular light show projected onto the building’s facade. It’s a dazzling display of holiday-themed animations set to music. The show runs every evening, so check the schedule before you go. And keep an eye out for the 30-foot snowflake on Fifth Avenue, sparkling with over 16,500 crystal prisms. It’s truly magical!
Holiday Markets and Festive Shopping
One of the best things about December in New York City is the shopping. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or just want to soak up the holiday atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of options. Here are some of the best holiday markets and shopping destinations in the city.
Bryant Park Winter Village
The Bryant Park Winter Village is a major holiday market with dozens of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food. It’s a shopper’s paradise, and the 17,000-square-foot ice skating rink is a fun bonus.
You’re sure to find gifts for everyone on your list here, with vendors selling clothing, jewelry, home goods, art, and more. And when you get hungry, you can grab a bite to eat from one of the many food vendors, offering everything from classic comfort food to international cuisine.
Union Square Holiday Market
Another popular shopping destination is the Union Square Holiday Market, which features around 150 vendors. This market is known for its diverse offerings, with a focus on unique and handcrafted items.
You’ll find a variety of goods here, including jewelry, clothing, art, and home goods. The Union Square Holiday Market is a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for the people you love.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Located near Central Park, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is another great option for holiday shopping. This market is known for its unique and handcrafted items, with a focus on local and sustainable products.
You’ll find a variety of goods here, including clothing, jewelry, art, and home goods. The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a great place to support local artisans and find unique gifts.
Macy’s Herald Square
No trip to New York City during the holidays is complete without a visit to Macy’s Herald Square. This iconic department store is famous for its elaborate holiday decorations and window displays. With over 1.2 million square feet of retail space, Macy’s is one of the largest department stores in the world. Each year, millions of visitors come to see the store’s holiday decorations and window displays.
Festive Entertainment and Performances
New York City in December is synonymous with dazzling entertainment. Here are a few options to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit:
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
No December in New York is complete without experiencing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a true NYC holiday tradition. The show is famous for the Rockettes, the precision dance company that has been performing at Radio City Music Hall since 1932. Their high-kicking routines and synchronized movements, coupled with the show’s elaborate sets and costumes, make for an unforgettable experience.
Performances run through January 5th, but given its popularity, booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended.
The Nutcracker Ballet
Another timeless classic, the Nutcracker ballet enchants audiences of all ages with its magical story, Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, and the artistry of the dancers. Several companies throughout the city stage productions of the Nutcracker, but the New York City Ballet’s performance at Lincoln Center is particularly renowned.
Like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, the Nutcracker is a hot ticket, so book your seats early.
Christmas Concerts and Musical Events
The city’s concert halls and churches come alive with festive music throughout December. Consider attending a Christmas concert at the majestic Cathedral of St. John the Divine, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics. Other churches and smaller venues offer a range of choral performances and instrumental concerts.
For pop music fans, Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas One and All!” tour will be at Madison Square Garden on December 13th and 15th.
Other Theatrical Productions
Beyond the Christmas classics, New York’s theater scene offers a diverse range of productions. “A Christmas Carol” at the Merchant’s House Museum provides a unique and intimate experience, staged within the historically preserved 19th-century home. Performances run throughout December.
For a comedic take on history, consider “Oh, Mary!” on Broadway, starring Cole Escola as Mary Todd Lincoln. The show is scheduled to run through March 24, 2024.
Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions
New York City in December isn’t just for grownups. There are plenty of things to do with the kids, too!
Holiday Train Show
The New York Botanical Garden puts on a spectacular Holiday Train Show every year, complete with model trains zipping past miniature versions of New York landmarks.
Another Holiday Train Show can be found at Grand Central Terminal, and this one runs all the way through February 2025, so you don’t have to cram it in during December if your schedule is already packed.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
The Bronx Zoo decks the halls, too, with its Holiday Lights display. It’s a luminous experience that the whole family can enjoy.
Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim
For a dose of culture, check out Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim Museum. It’s a unique holiday experience that will charm the children.
Hudson Yards Holiday Decorations
Hudson Yards gets into the holiday spirit as well, with modern and festive decorations that make for a fun outing.
Beyond Manhattan: Exploring Holiday Festivities in the Outer Boroughs
While Manhattan gets a lot of the holiday hype, the outer boroughs also know how to celebrate the season. Here are a few options:
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
If you’re in Brooklyn, don’t miss the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, a neighborhood-wide spectacle that has become a major attraction. The residents of Dyker Heights really go all out with their decorations, and the result is a dazzling display of community spirit.
If you don’t want to navigate the area on your own, you can hop on a guided bus tour for a convenient way to see the lights.
Queens Botanical Garden Winter Wonder
The Queens Botanical Garden gets in on the act with its own Winter Wonder event, a festive celebration that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages.
House of Holiday in Ozone Park
Another Queens destination is the House of Holiday in Ozone Park, a local gem that transforms into a winter wonderland each December.
Avoiding Tourist Traps and Maximizing Your Experience
New York City in December can be magical, but some experiences are better in theory than in practice. Here are a few things you might want to skip, or at least approach with caution:
- Rolf’s German Restaurant: Word on the street is that you may find yourself waiting a very long time for some potentially overrated food.
- New Year’s Eve in Times Square: Unless you love crowds and standing in the freezing cold for hours on end, you might want to manage your expectations for a Times Square New Year’s Eve.
- The Rockefeller Tree on Weekends: The tree itself is gorgeous, but on weekends, you may find yourself battling hordes of fellow tourists for a glimpse. Weekday mornings are a less crowded option.
- Grand Central Holiday Market: It’s charming, but the crowds can be overwhelming, especially on weekends.
- Central Park Carriage Rides: They’re undeniably touristy. If you’re looking for a more authentic (and less expensive) experience, consider a stroll through the park instead.
Of course, these are just suggestions. If fighting the crowds is part of the fun for you, then by all means, go for it! Just be prepared for the reality of these popular attractions during the holiday season.
In Conclusion
From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the holiday markets at Union Square and Bryant Park, December in New York City offers a dazzling array of attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking for a classic New York experience like ice skating in Central Park, or a more off-the-beaten-path adventure exploring a neighborhood lights display in Dyker Heights, there’s something for everyone.
To make the most of your December visit, it’s important to plan ahead. Book tickets for popular attractions in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak holiday season. And don’t forget to dress warmly! The city can be chilly in December, so layers are key. A warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf will help you stay comfortable as you explore the city’s many festive offerings.
Most of all, be sure to embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy the unique magic of December in New York City. The city comes alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a palpable sense of excitement. Take the time to wander through the decorated streets, soak in the atmosphere, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
So, what are you waiting for? Explore the city, discover hidden gems, and experience the wonder of a New York City December!