The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is one of New York City’s most beloved holiday traditions, starring the iconic Rockettes. Each year, the show brings to life the magic of Christmas with dazzling performances, intricate choreography, stunning costumes, and breathtaking stage effects. Held at the world-famous Radio City Music Hall, the Christmas Spectacular is a must-see event for both locals and tourists during the holiday season.
Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
Overview of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
- Location: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), between 50th and 51st Streets, New York, NY.
- Dates: The Christmas Spectacular typically runs from mid-November through early January.
- Show Duration: Approximately 90 minutes with no intermission.
- Age Appropriateness: The show is family-friendly and perfect for all ages. Children under 2 years old do not require a ticket if they can sit on a parent or guardian’s lap.
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History of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Christmas Spectacular debuted in 1933 and has since become a holiday institution in New York City. The show has evolved over the decades, but it has maintained its classic charm, with some segments, such as the famous “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “The Living Nativity”, remaining virtually unchanged. The show is anchored by the high-kicking Rockettes, whose precision and athleticism have made them synonymous with the Christmas Spectacular.
Today, the Christmas Spectacular draws over a million visitors each holiday season and is one of the most popular holiday shows in the country.
Buy Tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
What to Expect at the Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a sensory feast of music, dance, and Christmas spirit. Here are some of the highlights of the show:
The Rockettes
The Rockettes are the stars of the show, known for their perfectly synchronized high kicks and intricate choreography. Their signature performance, “The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers”, is one of the show’s most famous numbers, where the Rockettes, dressed as toy soldiers, perform a precision routine that ends with a domino-style fall, wowing audiences year after year.
The Living Nativity
A long-standing tradition of the Christmas Spectacular, The Living Nativity reenacts the story of the first Christmas. Complete with live camels, donkeys, and sheep, this scene is a reverent and awe-inspiring moment in the show, depicting the birth of Jesus Christ.
“New York at Christmas”
In this glitzy number, the Rockettes bring the magic of the holidays in New York to life. With a backdrop of iconic New York landmarks, this scene showcases the Rockettes in glamorous outfits as they board a double-decker bus, taking the audience on a tour through the city’s festive streets.
3D Santa’s Sleigh Ride
The Christmas Spectacular now incorporates cutting-edge technology, including a thrilling 3D sleigh ride that takes the audience on a journey through New York City from Santa’s perspective. You’ll feel as though you’re flying over the city’s skyscrapers and holiday decorations.
“The Twelve Days of Christmas”
This upbeat tap number showcases the Rockettes’ versatility. The dancers bring the classic holiday song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to life with tap-dancing precision, making it one of the most energetic and fun parts of the show.
Santa Claus
Of course, no Christmas show would be complete without Santa Claus! Throughout the show, Santa makes several appearances, bringing humor and holiday cheer to the performance.
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Tickets and Seating
Ticket Prices
- Ticket prices vary depending on the date, time, and seating section, but generally range from $50 to $300 per ticket. Weekend and holiday performances are typically more expensive, while weekday matinees may offer more affordable options.
- Premium seats (closer to the stage) and peak times such as Christmas Eve, weekends, and the days leading up to Christmas tend to sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended.
Where to Buy Tickets
- Tickets can be purchased directly from the Radio City Music Hall website, through Ticketmaster, or from authorized ticket sellers. Be cautious when purchasing from third-party resellers to avoid scams.
- Group discounts are available for larger parties.
Best Seats
- Orchestra seats offer the best views, especially for getting an up-close view of the Rockettes’ famous high kicks. Center orchestra seats provide a direct view of the stage.
- The First Mezzanine is another great choice for seeing the full stage and some of the larger production numbers from a higher vantage point.
- The Second and Third Mezzanine seats are more affordable and still offer a clear view of the entire show, making them a good choice for families or budget-conscious visitors.
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When to Visit: Best Times and Tips for Booking
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays: If you’re looking to avoid large crowds, try to visit during a weekday, especially for a morning or afternoon performance.
- Early in the Season: The shows right after Thanksgiving tend to be less crowded and slightly less expensive than those closer to Christmas.
- Matinee Shows: Morning and early afternoon performances are typically more affordable and less crowded than evening shows.
Book Early
The Christmas Spectacular is an extremely popular holiday event, and tickets often sell out, especially for shows in mid-December and on weekends. It’s best to book your tickets as early as possible to ensure availability and secure the best seats.
Buy Tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
What to Wear
While there’s no formal dress code for the Christmas Spectacular, most attendees dress in festive, smart-casual attire. Since you’ll be in the heart of New York City, you may also want to dress up a bit for the occasion, especially if you’re planning to take holiday photos or visit other attractions before or after the show.
- Warm clothing: The show takes place in the winter, so be sure to wear warm layers, especially if you’ll be walking around Midtown or visiting Rockefeller Center afterward.
- Festive outfits: Many families and groups wear Christmas-themed attire, such as holiday sweaters or matching outfits, which adds to the festive spirit.
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Getting to Radio City Music Hall
By Subway
- B, D, F, M trains: Take these to 47th-50th Streets Rockefeller Center station, which is just a short walk from Radio City Music Hall.
- 1 train: Stop at 50th Street-Broadway.
- N, Q, R, W trains: Stop at 49th Street.
By Bus
- Several city buses stop near Radio City Music Hall, including the M5, M7, and M50.
Parking
- Parking in Midtown Manhattan can be expensive and challenging, especially during the holiday season. If you need to drive, consider using a nearby parking garage. However, public transportation is recommended to avoid traffic.
Buy Tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Holiday Attractions Near Radio City Music Hall
The Christmas Spectacular is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, close to several iconic holiday attractions. You can easily make a full day of festive activities by exploring these nearby spots:
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- What it is: Just steps away from Radio City Music Hall, the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see during the holiday season.
- Why visit: The towering tree, with thousands of sparkling lights, is an iconic symbol of New York’s Christmas season. Be sure to stop by for a photo opportunity before or after the show.
Rockefeller Center Ice Skating
- What it is: The outdoor skating rink at Rockefeller Center is one of New York’s most famous winter attractions.
- Why visit: Ice skating in the shadow of the Rockefeller tree is a quintessential holiday activity. The rink can get crowded, so be sure to plan ahead if you want to skate.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
- What it is: Saks Fifth Avenue’s annual holiday light show is a dazzling display of lights synchronized to music, projected onto the building’s facade.
- Why visit: Just across the street from Rockefeller Center, this light show is one of the best free holiday displays in the city.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- What it is: This historic cathedral, located just a few blocks from Radio City Music Hall, is beautifully decorated for the holidays.
- Why visit: Take a moment to visit this stunning Gothic cathedral, which often features a nativity scene and other holiday displays inside.
Buy Tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Dining Near Radio City Music Hall
There are plenty of dining options near Radio City Music Hall for a pre-show meal or post-show treat. Here are some popular choices:
Bill’s Bar & Burger
- What it is: A casual spot known for its burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
- Why visit: Located just a block from Radio City, Bill’s is a great option for families or groups looking for a relaxed meal.
Rock Center Café
- What it is: A restaurant located in the heart of Rockefeller Center, offering seasonal American fare.
- Why visit: For a festive dining experience with views of the ice rink and Christmas tree, Rock Center Café is an ideal choice.
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
- What it is: A high-end steakhouse located near Radio City Music Hall.
- Why visit: For those looking to indulge in a fine dining experience, Del Frisco’s is known for its premium steaks and extensive wine list.
Buy Tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Conclusion
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an unforgettable holiday tradition that captures the magic of Christmas in New York City. With its world-class performances by the Rockettes, stunning visuals, and heartwarming scenes, the show is perfect for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re visiting New York for the first time or a local looking to get into the holiday spirit, the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall is a must-see event that brings joy and wonder to the holiday season.
