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Introduction
Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, especially in the heart of New York City.
From late November to New Year's Eve, there's no better way to celebrate the holidays with
your loved ones or partner than by visiting the most exciting city in the world.
There are always tons of things to do in New York, so of course, with so much going on, the
only problem is figuring out what to do first.
Christmas in New York is magical. Americans put a lot of effort into decorating their homes,
and New Yorkers also put a lot of effort into decorating store windows and streets. The city is always
beautiful, but during Christmas it is a fairy tale.
Christmas Day is the celebration of the birth of Jesus, and in the US it is celebrated on
December 25, as in many other countries. Christmas Eve is Christmas Eve, December 24.
At Christmas families come together to share food and gifts. The moment of opening gifts is
undoubtedly the biggest attraction for Americans. Please note that most shops and even department
stores are closed on Christmas Day. Aside from that, there are plenty of things to do at Christmas in
New York.
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Central park
Central Park being one of the best-known places in New York is nothing new, just as it is not
new that this is one of the most active areas and where, perhaps, you will find the most activities to do
during the Christmas season. Surely you have heard someone talk about the light shows that can be
seen in Grand Central, famous shows of this time such as the performance of 'The Nutcracker' or the
tours of the so-called 'Christmas cruise'.
There are activities that are worth trying during these dates, but without detracting from those
traditional charms of New York such as a good walk through Central Park or ice skating. These are
some of the many charms that can be enjoyed in this area at Christmas.
Central Park is one of the largest urban parks in New York City. It is located in the
district of Manhattan and its size impresses at first glance the thousands of visitors who come
to it year after year. And although its fame has been popularized by movies and series, it is
easy to get lost in this green lung of New York City.
Due to its size, it is easy to find leisure activities in Central Park for the enjoyment of
the whole family. There you will find a couple of ice skating rinks, some artificial lakes
where you can go fishing, and other green areas for sports activities.
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moma museum of modern art
The Museum of Modern Art in New York is probably one of the best modern art
museums in the world. Located right next to Central Park, near Rockefeller Center, its
collection has some of the most precious masterpieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, Dalí,
Warhol,….
The MoMa collection combines modern and contemporary art. In addition to painting,
it includes disciplines such as architecture, design, sculpture, photography, illustration...
Throughout its history, it has had several headquarters. Founded in 1929 by Abby
Aldrich Rockefeller (the wife of magnate John D. Rockefeller Jr., creator of Rockefeller
Center), MoMa initially consisted of six modest rooms.
Today, in the building it has occupied since 1939, it is one of the most influential art
museums in the world... and you could get lost in it for hours and not get to know everything!
If you haven't visited the MoMa museum in a while, you're in for a surprise. And, in
2019, it closed for several months for a comprehensive renovation.
The works have a completely different layout and the museum takes up even more
space: now, part of the MoMa is located in the neighboring building, 53W53, one of the
spectacular new luxury skyscrapers on Billionaires' Row.
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The most famous ice rinks
Another of the most emblematic places to enjoy the snow and winter in New York is
the Rockefeller Center plaza, located at number 45 Rockefeller Plaza Street. If this
architectural complex is already worth a visit, it goes without saying that if you travel to New
York in winter you should see this building decorated and equipped for the occasion. Since
1936 this activity became world famous, and images of skaters around the golden statue and
the best-known Christmas tree circulated throughout the world. The fame of ice skating at
Rockefeller Center is such that you have to queue or reserve in advance to access the rink,
since only 150 people can skate at a time (which is not small!). If you are 100% sure that you
want to do this activity in New York, it is best to book in advance and benefit from the
numerous packages that exist combined with the Top of the Rock observatory at Rockefeller
Center.
The Rockefeller Center skating rink is probably the most famous in Manhattan and is
dominated by the magnificent decorations of Rockefeller Plaza and the famous Rockefeller
Christmas Tree, the largest in New York.
It is located below Rockefeller Plaza and the track itself is not very large, which gives
it an intimate feel and a certain charm. Although the entrance is quite expensive, you will
have a great time!
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Dyker heights in Brooklyn
In this Brooklyn neighborhood, residents decorate their homes in style, with millions
of lights and twinkling decorations.So much so that walking through its streets has become a
very popular activity in New York at Christmas. So take note: we'll tell you how to visit the
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights on your own or on an organized tour!
Dyker Heights is a neighborhood located in southwest Brooklyn, about 1 hour by
subway from Manhattan. You can see it in our Brooklyn neighborhood guide.
It is a residential neighborhood full of single-family houses with gardens, an image
more typical of the suburbs than of the metropolis. And you'll see how, in some cases, they
are true mansions! And how did a very quiet neighborhood become one of the most famous
Christmas attractions in New York? The origin has a first and last name: Lucy Spata, a
neighbor of the neighborhood who, in 1986, decided to fill her house with Christmas lights.
Although at first more than one neighbor disowned Spata's resplendent house, little by little
the households became encouraged and joined the initiative.
Today, Christmas decorations in Dyker Heights are a competition between neighbors.
And, since there is no shortage of money in the neighborhood, each year they are crazier than
the last.While some opt for discreet decorations, other gardens are packed with inflatables,
moving figures, music...
More or less extravagant, but you'll be hard-pressed to find a dark house in Dyker
Heights at Christmas!
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Schwarz fao
The legendary piano that became famous throughout the world in the movie Big
starring Tom Hanks.
One of the bedrooms where the family who enjoys this unique night can sleep.
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Macys
In bustling New York City, the holiday season is illuminated with bright lights, festive
decorations, and the unique magic of holiday shopping. At the epicenter of this holiday
experience is Macy's, a store that goes beyond being a shopping venue to become a magical
holiday destination. Join us on this holiday shopping tour, where we'll explore the best
holiday stores with a special focus on the splendor of Macy's.
Our tour begins at the iconic Macy's Herald Square, an institution that has been
defining the holiday shopping experience for more than a century. With its stunning decorated
display cases and famous illuminated façade, Macy's Herald Square becomes an urban
fairytale during the holiday season.
Upon entering the store, we are greeted by a symphony of lights, colors and the
cheerful melody of Christmas carols. The meticulously designed display cases tell enchanting
stories that capture visitors' imaginations, from winter fairy tales to the classic story of "A
Christmas Carol." Every corner of Macy’s Herald Square is transformed into a festive corner,
inviting shoppers to immerse themselves in the magic of the season.
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garden glow
The Garden Glow and the New York Botanical Garden Christmas Train is something
you can't miss if you are traveling to New York at Christmas. The New York Botanical
Garden is already beautiful, so imagine it decked out for Christmas .
Of all the special Christmas and New Year's Eve attractions in New York, this is one
of the most magical. The colorful outdoor display stretches for approximately 2.5 kilometers,
with thousands of LED lights, digital installations, arches of lights and life-size decorations.
Throughout the botanical garden, you will find extravagant decorations and lights
everywhere. Be sure to check out the twinkling topiary display and special light projection on
the Mertz Library Building.
The Garden Glow is fun for all ages, so you can come with kids. They will love the
intricate ice sculptures, while older adults will enjoy the open-air cafes and bars and the
eye-catching night market. Just make sure you reserve your ticket in advance. It is almost
impossible to get one on the same day since it is one of the most popular places to visit in
New York at Christmas.
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Walk through the Christmas markets in New York
The New York Christmas markets are some of the most popular attractions you will
find during your Christmas and New Year's holidays in New York. Whether you need to buy
last-minute Christmas gifts or just want to browse to see what they have, getting lost in a
Christmas market in New York is super fun.
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market in Central Park is in a very popular location
and has over 100 vendor booths, so I'm sure you'll find something you like. Also worth a visit
is the Union Square Holiday Market, which also features over 100 vendors ranging from
jewelers and artists to bakers and international businesses.
Additionally, the Grand Central Holiday Fair at Vanderbilt Hall offers crafts and
specialty items, all in a warm indoor setting.
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Santaland
Families with children can't miss the New York Christmas tradition of visiting
Santaland at Macy's. While Macy's stores across the country host this holiday event, the
Herald Square flagship store in Manhattan is the most popular location, attracting more than
170,000 visitors each year.
Macy's Santaland occupies 4,000 square meters on the 8th floor of the store, creating
a winter wonderland of colorful Christmas lights and decorations. The interactive exhibit
includes a snowy enchanted forest, gingerbread houses and toy soldiers that will delight
children of all ages. It is no surprise that this store is one of the most popular places to visit in
New York at Christmas, as it is a favorite among New Yorkers and tourists year after year.
While you're here, you can write a letter to Santa and leave it in the Santaland
mailbox, as well as see their incredible Christmas displays that I've already told you about.
And of course, Santa and his elves are available for photos and tours. Admission is free, but
you must book in advance as many people want to meet Santa.
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Radio City Christmas Spectacular
During a trip to New York at Christmas you have to make time in your schedule to
attend the legendary Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a magical Christmas show that
premiered for the first time in 1933 and that has become a true tradition on these dates.
It really is as spectacular as its name says! A show of music, dance, humor and lights
like the ones before, starring the fantastic The Rockettes that will make you relive Christmas
with the excitement of a child. A classic!
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