What is there to do in NYC at Christmas time?
Christmas in New York City is a magical experience with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a multitude of activities capturing the spirit of the holiday season. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This blog will delve into the top things to do in NYC during Christmas time, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Iconic Attractions
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
One cannot talk about Christmas in NYC without mentioning the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This gigantic tree is decked with thousands of lights and is crowned with a beautiful star, a wonder to behold. The lighting ceremony that takes place annually marks the beginning of the holiday season and is an event that attracts many from all over the world. Visitors can also go ice skating at the rink below, making it an experience quintessentially characteristic of the holiday season.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
A short walk from Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue turns its facade into a dazzling light show synchronized with music. This enchanting display features thousands of lights and is a must-see for anyone visiting during the holidays.
Holiday Markets
New York City boasts several holiday markets that offer unique gifts and delicious treats. The Bryant Park Winter Village is particularly popular, featuring over 100 vendors selling handmade crafts and festive foods. Grab a hot chocolate and stroll through the market while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Nutcracker Ballet
Another traditional holiday experience is George Balanchine's The Nutcracker, which runs at Lincoln Center every year. This lovely ballet is a wonderful retelling of Clara's adventure through a winter wonderland. It is a great way for families to really get into the holiday spirit.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
For those who love lavish decorations, a visit to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is a must. This neighborhood goes all out with Christmas lights, creating a spectacular display that attracts visitors from all over. Walking through these streets feels like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Cultural Experiences
Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
The Holiday Train Show in the New York Botanical Garden features model trains running through intricate displays made from natural materials. This is the perfect event for families and train enthusiasts alike, where iconic NYC landmarks are created from twigs and leaves.
Christmas Concerts
Many churches and venues host special Christmas concerts throughout this time in NYC. St. John the Divine typically has a Christmas concert which includes caroling and choirs local to the performing area - a lovely way to observe the season.
Off the Beaten Path Experiences
Central Park during Winter
Winter in Central Park is something else. The park transforms into a snowy paradise, where visitors can engage in activities such as ice skating at Wollman Rink or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque landscape.
Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity 3
No trip to NYC during Christmas would be complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Serendipity 3 is famous for its frozen hot chocolate, which is a delightful way to warm up after exploring the city.
Magical NYC Christmas
Visiting New York City during Christmas time offers an array of activities that cater to all interests and ages. From marveling at the Rockefeller Center tree to enjoying festive performances, indulging in seasonal treats, or exploring everything this great city has to offer, NYC will not disappoint during the holidays. To add a little extra sparkle to your holiday plans, consider hiring services such as Sparkly Maid NYC, which will make sure that your accommodations shine just like your outings. As you enjoy the magic of NYC this Christmas season, know that every moment spent here is contributing to memories that will last for years to come—especially when you get back home to enjoy your beautifully cleaned space by Sparkly Maid NYC!
