December in New York City is magical, with holiday lights, festive decorations, and iconic events that make the city come alive with seasonal charm. From Christmas markets and tree lightings to ice skating and world-class performances, NYC offers a wide range of activities that celebrate the winter holidays and the excitement of the end of the year. Here’s your ultimate guide to the top events happening in New York City in December.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
- Date: Early December (tree stays lit through early January)
- Location: Rockefeller Plaza, 30 Rockefeller Center
- Description: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is one of the city’s most famous holiday events, attracting thousands of visitors and broadcast live for millions to watch. The 75-foot-tall tree is illuminated with over 50,000 LED lights, creating a dazzling spectacle in the heart of Manhattan. While the tree lighting ceremony itself is packed, the tree remains lit throughout December, and visitors can stop by to admire it throughout the holiday season.
Holiday Windows on Fifth Avenue
- Dates: Late November through December
- Location: Along Fifth Avenue, especially between 49th and 59th Streets
- Description: New York City’s department stores are known for their elaborate holiday window displays. Each year, stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s, and Bloomingdale’s unveil intricately designed windows with festive themes. Strolling down Fifth Avenue to admire these artistic creations is a must-do activity during the holiday season.
Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park
- Dates: November through early March
- Locations:
- Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink, 30 Rockefeller Plaza
- Bryant Park Winter Village, 42nd Street and Sixth Avenue
- Description: Ice skating in New York City is one of the quintessential winter experiences. The Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink is perhaps the most iconic, set beneath the famous Christmas tree. For a more spacious and often less crowded experience, head to Bryant Park’s Winter Village ice skating rink, which is free if you bring your own skates.
New Year’s Eve in Times Square
- Date: December 31
- Location: Times Square, Manhattan
- Description: The world-famous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square is a bucket-list event for many visitors. As the clock approaches midnight, thousands gather to watch the ball drop and ring in the New Year. While it’s a crowded and high-energy event, the atmosphere is electric, and it’s an experience like no other. Expect live music, celebrity performances, and fireworks at midnight.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
- Dates: Mid-November through early January
- Location: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas
- Description: The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the world-famous Rockettes, is one of New York City’s most beloved holiday traditions. This 90-minute show features dazzling choreography, festive music, and impressive stage effects, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. Iconic numbers include the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and the Living Nativity.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
- Dates: December through early January
- Location: Dyker Heights, Brooklyn (between 11th and 13th Avenues, and 83rd and 86th Streets)
- Description: The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are one of the most spectacular holiday displays in the city. Homeowners in this Brooklyn neighborhood go all out with extravagant decorations, featuring lights, inflatable Santas, nutcrackers, and elaborate Christmas scenes. It’s a local favorite and a great way to enjoy festive lights in a more residential setting.
Winter Village at Bryant Park
- Dates: October through early January
- Location: Bryant Park, 42nd Street and Sixth Avenue
- Description: The Winter Village at Bryant Park is a European-style holiday market that offers more than 100 vendors selling artisanal crafts, holiday gifts, and gourmet treats. The village also features the popular Bryant Park Ice Skating Rink, as well as cozy pop-up restaurants and bars serving seasonal favorites like hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Union Square Holiday Market
- Dates: Late November through December 24
- Location: Union Square Park, 14th Street and Broadway
- Description: The Union Square Holiday Market is one of the best places to shop for unique, handmade holiday gifts. With over 150 local vendors, it’s a great place to find jewelry, art, crafts, and specialty foods. The market is beautifully decorated, creating a festive and cozy atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping.
The Nutcracker by New York City Ballet
- Dates: Late November through early January
- Location: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center
- Description: One of the most famous productions of The Nutcracker, performed by the New York City Ballet, is a beloved holiday tradition. With its exquisite choreography by George Balanchine, beautiful costumes, and a live orchestra, this production is a magical experience for audiences of all ages. Tickets can sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.
Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
- Dates: Mid-November through January
- Location: New York Botanical Garden, Bronx
- Description: The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is a must-see for families and train enthusiasts. The exhibition features model trains that travel through a miniature landscape of famous New York City landmarks, all made from natural materials like bark, leaves, and pine cones. The attention to detail is stunning, and the show is set inside a beautiful greenhouse.
Holiday Light Show at the Bronx Zoo
- Dates: Late November through early January
- Location: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
- Description: The Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show is a family-friendly event featuring LED light displays of animals, illuminated sculptures, holiday music, and seasonal treats. The zoo’s light show covers acres of land, creating a festive winter wonderland that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
The Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History
- Dates: Late November through early January
- Location: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street
- Description: The Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History is a unique holiday display, featuring over 1,000 origami decorations. The intricate paper creations are made by local and international artists and are inspired by the museum’s exhibits. The tree is a beautiful and creative addition to the museum’s holiday offerings.
Hanukkah Menorah Lightings
- Dates: Hanukkah (dates vary, usually in December)
- Location:
- Grand Army Plaza, Manhattan (largest menorah in the world)
- Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn
- Description: Celebrate Hanukkah with public menorah lightings at two locations in New York City: Grand Army Plaza in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The Manhattan menorah stands at 32 feet tall and is lit every evening during Hanukkah with music, celebrations, and traditional blessings. The Brooklyn menorah lighting at Grand Army Plaza is another popular event, complete with a festive gathering of the community.
New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker Sweets at Chelsea Piers
- Dates: December
- Location: Chelsea Piers
- Description: A more intimate version of The Nutcracker, this family-friendly event showcases highlights from the classic ballet performed by the New York Theatre Ballet at Chelsea Piers. The hour-long show is perfect for children, introducing them to the magic of ballet with a shorter, engaging performance.
Candlelight Holiday Concerts
- Dates: Throughout December
- Location: Various locations, including The Church of the Intercession, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Carnegie Hall
- Description: December in New York City is full of holiday concerts, many of which are held in beautiful, historic churches or concert halls. Popular candlelight concerts include The Cathedral Choir’s Christmas Concert at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and festive performances at Carnegie Hall. These concerts offer a magical way to enjoy holiday music in a serene, atmospheric setting.
Tips for Enjoying December Events in NYC
- Dress Warmly: December in New York City can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Make sure to wear warm layers, hats, scarves, and gloves—especially if you’ll be outdoors at events like ice skating or the New Year’s Eve ball drop.
- Plan Ahead: Many popular events, such as the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and The Nutcracker, require tickets that can sell out quickly. It’s best to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Take Public Transportation: With so many events and holiday activities, the streets can get crowded with traffic. Using the subway or buses is usually the fastest way to get around the city during the busy holiday season.
Conclusion
December in New York City is a magical time, filled with festive lights, holiday performances, and cultural events that capture the spirit of the season. Whether you’re admiring the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, skating under the stars, or exploring the city’s many holiday markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
