Christmas in New York 2025 | Best Things to Do
There’s nothing like Christmas in New York. The sparkling lights, towering trees, and festive streets make it feel like a real-life holiday movie. Every corner transforms with glowing windows, cozy shops, and scenes straight from beloved Christmas films.
If you’re wondering what to do in New York at Christmas, this guide to My Christmas in New York covers the best experiences for 2025. From magical Christmas markets and rooftop bars to the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, we include it all. You’ll find top Christmas shows, festive tours, and ideas for celebrating Christmas Day in the city.
Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas in New York or want to know when decorations appear, you’ll find the answers here. For a month-by-month look at key dates and events, see our complete Holiday Season in New York timeline guide. We also share tips on where to stay and where to enjoy Christmas dinner.
Follow along as we explore the very best of the holiday season. And for daily festive updates, visit our Instagram page, MyChristmasInNewYorkCity. Let’s discover the magic of Christmas in New York 2025 together.
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Why spend Christmas in New York in 2025?
Every year, millions dream of spending Christmas in New York City, and 2025 is no different. It’s one of the most magical times to visit the city. We’re here to show you the best things to do in New York City for Christmas 2025.
Right after Thanksgiving, the transformation begins. Lights go up. Decorations appear. Storefronts play classic songs like “Christmas in New York,” and the whole city feels like a holiday film set.
Expect giant Christmas trees in New York, like the one at Rockefeller Center. You’ll also find festive ice skating rinks, cozy cafés, and streets glowing with decorations. In 2024, we even had a white Christmas, and it could happen again in 2025.
Whether it’s your first trip or a holiday tradition, New York in Christmas 2025 offers joy, beauty, and once-a-year experiences you won’t forget.
Need help planning? Download our Ultimate NYC Guidebook. It includes maps, expert tips, holiday routes, and hidden spots. All created by the My Christmas in New York team. And if you’re looking for unforgettable holiday experiences, don’t miss our exclusive Christmas tours in New York, you’ll find them all below.
Now let’s dive into what to do in New York over Christmas. You’ll discover the must-do events, tours, markets, lights, and more.
Best Christmas hotels in New York
Looking for the best place to stay for Christmas in New York City 2025? The right hotel makes all the difference. It can turn your trip into a once-in-a-lifetime holiday memory.
Many hotels in New York go all out for the Christmas season. You’ll find grand lobbies, festive trees, and twinkling lights, just like in a Christmas in New York movie. Here are a few of our favorites:
Lotte New York Palace: Famous for its giant Christmas tree and iconic courtyard. A dream spot for holiday photos.
The Peninsula New York: Stylish, festive, and just steps from Fifth Avenue, Radio City, and the best Christmas shows in New York.
The Plaza Hotel: Classic, glamorous, and packed with Home Alone 2 vibes. A must for movie lovers.
These are just the beginning. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with kids, there’s a perfect hotel for your Christmas in New York trip. Looking for the perfect hotel? Have a look at our brand-new post on the Best Hotels in NYC for Christmas, a handpicked guide to the most festive places to stay in 2025. Want more options? Download our 2025 Ultimate NYC Guidebook. Inside, you’ll find our 10 favorite hotels, from Midtown landmarks to cozy boutique gems. It’s the easiest way to choose where to stay in New York for Christmas.
Best Christmas restaurants in New York
Food is a big part of the holiday magic. During Christmas in New York City 2025, the city overflows with festive places to eat, drink, and celebrate. From holiday brunch spots to rooftop bars and Christmas wonderlands, there’s something for every style and budget. Yet a few restaurants stand out above the rest.
Papillon Christmas Restaurant: One of the most festive restaurants in New York at Christmas, Papillon transforms into a holiday wonderland with two floors of lights, garlands, ornaments, and cheer in every corner. It’s cozy and beautiful, perfect for a holiday meal. Papillon does not accept public reservations in December, but our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour includes a skip-the-line perk with an exclusive reserved table.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar: For Christmas lights in the sky, 230 Fifth offers heated igloos, Empire State Building views, and holiday music above the city. It’s among the top Christmas rooftop bars in New York. With our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour, you skip long lines and the cover charge, a big advantage during the busy season.
Rolf’s German Restaurant: Famous for over-the-top Christmas decorations, Rolf’s keeps them up year-round, so they often look dusty. The food is pricey, reviews are mixed, and reservations are rarely confirmed.
If you’re deciding between Papillon and Rolf’s, we recommend Papillon. It’s fresher, cleaner, and offers better food with a truly magical Christmas dining experience. Discover our full article on the best Christmas Restaurants in NYC HERE!
Best things to do during christmas in New York 2025
There are countless unforgettable things to do in New York at Christmas. From world-famous trees to sparkling light shows, festive cruises, and rooftop celebrations, the city feels like pure holiday magic.
Whether you’re visiting for Christmas in New York City 2025 or simply chasing that festive spirit, NYC always delivers. You’ll see giant red ornaments on Sixth Avenue, glide across iconic ice rinks like Bryant Park, and watch classic Christmas shows in New York, from the Rockettes at Radio City to special Broadway holiday productions.
In this section, we’ve handpicked the 15 best things to do during Christmas in New York 2025. These include exclusive Christmas tours, must-see photo spots, and the most stunning decorations across the city. Each experience captures the magic that makes New York one of the world’s top holiday destinations.
Get ready to explore highlights that range from timeless traditions to hidden holiday gems, ensuring your trip is filled with festive memories.
1. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
No Christmas in New York City 2025 is complete without seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. It’s the most iconic Christmas tree in New York, and one of the most photographed in the world. Each year, the tree stands over 70 feet tall, glowing with more than 50,000 LED lights. A massive Swarovski star crowns the top, right above the world-famous Rockefeller ice skating rink.
When does the Christmas tree go up in New York? The official lighting ceremony in Manhattan will take place on December 3, 2025. After that, the lights stay on daily through early January. This tree is the heart of Christmas in New York. Every season, thousands of visitors gather in Midtown just to see it sparkle.
Insider tip: The lights are turned off overnight, then switched back on each morning at exactly 5:00 AM. Arrive just before to experience the magical moment when the tree lights up, without the crowds. It’s one of the most peaceful holiday sights in New York City. Too early? Join our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour to see the tree with a local guide, luxury minivan access, and an exclusive reserved brunch at Papillon, New York’s most festive Christmas restaurant.
Where is the Christmas tree in New York? It’s in Rockefeller Plaza, between 49th and 50th Street, just off Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Few sights capture the magic of Christmas in New York 2025 like this one. Don’t miss it, and also check out our article on the famous Rockefeller Center Chalets for another festive experience.
2. Visit other iconic Christmas trees across NYC
The Rockefeller Center tree gets the spotlight, but it’s far from the only Christmas tree in New York City worth visiting in 2025. The city is full of dazzling trees, each with its own style and atmosphere.
Bryant Park: This glowing tree anchors the Winter Village, surrounded by holiday shops and a busy ice rink. It’s a beloved NYC spot and the final stop on our Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour, where guests enjoy a free hot chocolate.
Wall Street: In Lower Manhattan, a festive tree sparkles between historic buildings. It’s a highlight of our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour, especially magical at night.
Washington Square Park: A charming tree stands under the iconic arch, with the Empire State Building in the distance.
Lotte New York Palace: Often called the second most iconic tree after Rockefeller Center, this Midtown display feels elegant and timeless.
Bloomberg Tower: Near 59th Street, a modern tree adds a sleek festive touch to this upscale corner of Midtown.
South Street Seaport: On the East River, a tree with waterfront views offers historic charm and fewer crowds.
Other must-see trees include the glowing Fox News Plaza tree, the classic display above Radio City Music Hall, and the walk-through tree tunnel on Sixth Avenue. For a full guide, check out our article on the Best Christmas Trees in NYC.
Want to see them all without the hassle? Join our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour and enjoy the best Christmas trees in New York City with skip-the-line access, warm drinks, and a stress-free itinerary.
Watch the Rockettes at Radio City and Other NYC Christmas Classics
No Christmas trip to New York City is complete without seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Since 1933, this iconic show has starred the Rockettes and filled the holiday season with joy.
The performance takes place inside the stunning Radio City Music Hall, just steps from our Christmas tour meeting point. Here, you can expect dazzling choreography, magical sets, classic Christmas songs, and a heartwarming live Nativity scene. As a result, it remains one of the most famous Christmas shows in New York, perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors alike.
For the best value, plan around Black Friday. Each year, right after Thanksgiving, Radio City tickets go on sale with huge discounts. Some of the best orchestra seats are included in the deal, yet they sell out quickly. That’s why Marco from My Christmas in New York shares updates and ticket alerts on Instagram and through our broadcast channel, follow us so you never miss the sale.
Watching the Rockettes is not just a show, it’s one of the best things to do in New York at Christmas. It blends tradition, elegance, and festive fun in one unforgettable experience. Therefore, book early or set a reminder for Black Friday deals. The best dates and times vanish fast, especially on weekends. This is Christmas in New York 2025 at its most classic and magical.
If you’d like another festive alternative, consider George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center. This beloved ballet features the New York City Ballet, breathtaking costumes, and the enchanting score by Tchaikovsky. Together with the Rockettes, it completes the ultimate holiday show experience in New York.
For something different but just as entertaining, stop at Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Times Square. Famous for its singing waitstaff, this retro diner offers classic American food with Broadway-style performances at your table. During the holidays, it’s extra fun with Christmas songs filling the room.
4. Explore New York's magical Christmas markets
Christmas in New York City 2025 wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through its festive holiday markets. These seasonal pop-ups are packed with handmade gifts, warm treats, and cozy holiday vibes.
Start with the most famous: Bryant Park Winter Village. Set beside a skating rink and under a glowing Christmas tree, it features more than 170 vendors. You’ll find ornaments, hot cider, artisanal snacks, and perfect gift ideas. As a bonus, it’s the final stop on our Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour, and every guest receives a free hot chocolate to enjoy at the market.
Next, visit the Union Square Holiday Market. Known for its red-and-white booths and local feel, it offers handmade candles, unique decor, and gourmet bites. It’s part of our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour, so you won’t miss this authentic downtown gem.
At Columbus Circle, another Christmas market lights up the edge of Central Park. It’s scenic and charming, great for holiday browsing with a view.
Inside Grand Central Terminal, the Holiday Fair transforms Vanderbilt Hall with festive lights, jewelry, and winter accessories. Our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour passes through, giving you the perfect chance to explore.
Finally, don’t miss Macy’s Herald Square. Its indoor holiday market sits right beside Santaland and is great for stocking stuffers and last-minute finds.
These markets bring the spirit of Christmas in New York 2025 to life. Don’t leave without visiting at least one or all.
5. Go ice skating at iconic Christmas in New York rinks
Ice skating is one of the most classic things to do in New York at Christmas in 2025. The city offers several iconic rinks, each with its own festive charm.
Start at the legendary Rockefeller Center Rink, right below the famous Christmas tree. It’s small but magical, with twinkling lights, golden statues, and a true Christmas in New York movie setting. This is one of the city’s most photographed holiday spots. Tickets sell out quickly and prices are high, so book in advance if it’s on your must-do list.
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is the only rink in New York City with free admission. You pay only for skate rentals or bring your own. Surrounded by markets, music, and lights, it’s a lively, family-friendly option that still feels festive.
For a peaceful experience, visit Wollman Rink in Central Park. It’s larger and more scenic, with skyline views and trees framing the ice. This rink appears in Christmas movies like Serendipity, one of the stops on our New York Movie Tour, which includes iconic filming locations across the city. For more inspiration, check out our full article on how to spend a Christmas Day in Central Park.
Most New York ice rinks open by late October or early November and stay open into February or March, so you can enjoy skating long after Christmas Day. Whether by day or under the lights at night, ice skating remains one of the most joyful ways to embrace the winter spirit in New York City.
6. Dine at a Christmas-themed restaurant in New York
Dining during Christmas in New York 2025 is more than just a meal. It’s part of the magic. Some restaurants fully transform into festive holiday experiences. But despite the seasonal spirit, truly high-quality Christmas-themed restaurants in New York City are surprisingly rare.
Let’s start with the best: Papillon Christmas Restaurant. This two-story Midtown gem turns into a glowing holiday wonderland, with garlands, ornaments, and lights covering every corner. It’s one of the most festive places to eat in NYC. During the season, Papillon doesn’t take public reservations. But guests on our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour get skip-the-line access, a reserved table, and a holiday lunch special at a fixed price, something almost unheard of at popular holiday spots.
Looking for skyline views with your mulled wine? 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar features heated igloos, twinkling lights, and holiday music. With our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour, guests skip the line and enter without the usual cover charge.
Prefer something elegant indoors? The Palm Court at The Plaza is open to non-guests and offers a front-row seat to the hotel’s legendary Christmas decor. Other festive dining options worth checking out: Tavern on the Green, Pete’s Tavern and Serra by Birreria.
While many restaurants decorate, only a few deliver great food and real atmosphere. For 2025, our top picks are Papillon, 230 Fifth, and The Plaza. Check out our full article on the best Christmas restaurants in NYC!
7. Admire festive indoor 2025 Christmas in New York decorations
When the chill sets in, New York offers plenty of magical indoor Christmas decorations. From elegant hotel lobbies to glowing atriums and shops, you’ll find festive displays across the city.
Start at Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue. Inside the luxury store, you’ll discover stunning decorations and themed holiday floors that complement the famous windows outside. It’s one of the most glamorous places to step indoors during the season.
Next, head to The Lotte New York Palace, where a courtyard tree, gingerbread house, and glittering chandeliers create a fairytale setting. A short walk away, The Plaza Hotel delivers pure Home Alone 2 magic, with rich decorations and the city’s most iconic Christmas lobby.
In Midtown, Hudson Yards glows with over two million lights, golden garlands, and floating hot air balloons. The festive interior pairs perfectly with the Vessel outside. All of this is featured in our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour.
Uptown, the Shops at Columbus Circle feature massive illuminated stars hanging above the atrium. This spot also connects with the outdoor holiday market in the same complex.
Downtown, Brookfield Place shines with its peaceful lantern display, set inside a soaring glass atrium. The lanterns change color in time with holiday music, making it one of the city’s most underrated Christmas decorations.
Other festive stops include the Hard Rock Hotel near Times Square, the Peninsula Hotel on Fifth Avenue with quiet golden luxury, and the Christmas floors inside Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s.
Note: Hotel decorations are not official attractions, so please be respectful while visiting.
8. Take a Christmas lights and decorations walk in Manhattan
From glowing windows to famous trees, Manhattan during Christmas feels like a holiday movie set. Walking through the lights is one of the most magical things to do in New York at Christmas, and our guided tours make it even better.
To begin, stroll along Fifth Avenue, where iconic holiday windows sparkle with creativity. Saks Fifth Avenue is famous for its animated light show.
Just steps away, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree glows beside the rink, crowned with a Swarovski Star of over three million crystals. From there, look up at 57th and Fifth to spot the illuminated Fifth Avenue Snowflake, twinkling with 16,000 crystals.
Next, continue past Cartier, wrapped in its red bow, and admire the displays at Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, and Dior. Across from The Plaza Hotel, the Pulitzer Fountain becomes a snowy holiday scene, perfect for photos.
As you head toward Sixth Avenue, giant red ornaments and oversized candy canes appear, with Radio City in the background.
Finally, make your way to Hudson Yards, where gold canopies, glowing trees, and the Vessel shine brightly. This finale is also part of our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour.
For more details, explore our articles on Midtown’s best Christmas windows and the giant holiday decorations along Sixth Avenue.
9. Visit year-round Christmas in New York shops and pop-ups
If you wish it could be Christmas all year, New York City delivers. The city has magical shops that celebrate the holidays 365 days a year, plus seasonal pop-ups during the festive months.
At Bryant Park Winter Village, don’t miss the Christmas in New York Store. It’s packed with ornaments, nutcrackers, snow globes, and collectible décor. This is the final stop on our Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour, where every guest receives a free hot chocolate to enjoy while browsing.
In Little Italy, another Christmas in New York Store stays open year-round. Cozy and glowing with lights, it’s filled with festive décor, including the famous Home Alone 2 “turtle doves,” a classic Christmas in New York movie souvenir. Guests on our New York Movie Tour can even pre-reserve a pair of the original doves.
Just north of Rockefeller Center, Christmas Cottage is a tiny shop overflowing with hand-painted ornaments and miniature Santas. Inside The Plaza Hotel, the elegant gift shop offers curated holiday décor, Storrings-style holiday cards, and upscale souvenirs perfect for gifting.
FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center is another must-visit during the holidays. The world-famous toy store glows with festive displays and offers Christmas ornaments alongside its iconic toys and giant piano. It’s one of the city’s most enchanting shopping experiences, especially for families.
Looking for something special? These festive stores keep the magic of Christmas in New York 2025 alive, no matter the season. For more insider shopping tips and secret finds, check our 2025 Ultimate NYC Guidebook or free article on best Christmas Shops!
10. Join a Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour
If there’s one Brooklyn tradition that defines Christmas in New York, it’s the lights of Dyker Heights. This quiet neighborhood transforms into one of the most dazzling holiday displays in the world, with entire blocks glowing in festive brilliance. It belongs on any list of the best Christmas things to do in NYC.
It all started in the 1980s with local resident Lucy Spata, who began decorating in memory of her mother. Her passion spread, and today, homes here feature nutcrackers, reindeer, and full holiday scenes synced to music.
But getting there isn’t easy. It’s far from the subway, parking is tough, and sidewalks get packed. That’s why we created the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour, a smooth, festive experience without the stress.
- Travel in comfort by coach bus or luxury minivan
- Enjoy a one-hour guided walk led by a licensed NYC guide
- Stop in DUMBO to see Manhattan’s skyline from Pebble Beach
- End at Bryant Park Winter Village with free hot chocolate
A word of caution: Not all Dyker Heights tours are created equal. Some companies on big platforms offer low-quality buses, no guides, or cancel last minute if seats don’t fill. Others provide no support if plans go wrong. When you book with My Christmas in New York, you book directly with the operator, no middlemen, no surprises. This is one of the best Christmas tours in New York for families, couples, and holiday lovers alike.
- Direct customer service: Ask us anything, anytime, no third-party platforms involved
Top-quality vehicles: Ride in a modern coach bus or a luxury minivan limited to just 22 guests for a more exclusive experience
Professional drivers: Friendly, experienced, and English-speaking
Fully guided experience: Always led by licensed NYC tour guides — we never leave you to navigate the crowds alone
Easy check-in: Convenient starting point near Times Square
Round-trip included: After Dyker Heights and DUMBO, we bring you back to Bryant Park where the holiday magic continues with a free hot chocolate on us
Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 72 hours before your tour because we know holiday plans can change
Booking your Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour with My Christmas in New York means peace of mind, comfort, and the festive experience you’ve been dreaming of.
11. Sail on a Christmas cruise in New York
For a calm and magical way to enjoy Christmas in New York City 2025, step aboard the Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise. Offered by Classic Harbor Line, this 1.5-hour evening cruise sails past the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline on a beautifully decorated 1920s-style yacht. It’s warm, enclosed, and never overcrowded.
Live carolers perform festive classics as you sip hot cocoa and enjoy holiday cookies. The atmosphere feels joyful and cozy, perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful break from the busy streets.
This is one of the most unique Christmas cruises in New York and a favorite among both locals and visitors. Another popular option is the Holiday Brunch Cruise, which combines festive dining with stunning daytime views. For more details on both experiences, see our dedicated page or article on Christmas Cruises in NYC.
Book early, as these holiday cruises sell out quickly, especially in December.
12. Visit Macy’s Santaland during 2025 Christmas in New York
No Christmas in New York City is complete without a visit to Macy’s Santaland. Located inside Macy’s Herald Square, this immersive holiday experience has been a tradition for generations.
Santaland takes you through a whimsical North Pole village filled with snow-covered trees, moving displays, cheerful elves, and festive music. The journey ends with a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, perfect for photos and a holiday chat.
It’s one of the best Christmas things to do in New York with kids, and just as magical for adults revisiting their childhood memories.
Important tip: Reservations are required and open in late November. Time slots fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so book early to avoid disappointment.
Whether you’re visiting with family or just feeling nostalgic, Santaland delivers heartwarming holiday magic in the heart of Manhattan. It’s a must for any Christmas in New York itinerary. Check also our full article on Where to Meet Santa in NYC.
13. Visit a Christmas Church or Gospel Service
For a meaningful and reflective moment during Christmas in New York City 2025, consider attending a church service or holiday gospel concert. In Midtown, St. Patrick’s Cathedral offers beautifully sung Christmas Eve and Christmas Day masses. Candlelight, music, and the grandeur of the space create a peaceful pause amid the holiday rush.
For something more vibrant, head to Harlem for a Christmas gospel service. Many local churches host special holiday concerts or joyful Christmas morning performances filled with soulful music and community warmth.
Whether you’re religious or simply looking to feel more connected this season, a church or gospel service offers a powerful, often overlooked way to experience Christmas in New York. It’s a reminder of the deeper meaning of the holiday, and a beautiful way to slow down, reflect, and feel the spirit of the season.
14. Enjoy a festive rooftop bar decked out for Christmas in NYC
One of the most stylish ways to celebrate Christmas in New York City 2025 is from above, with skyline views, cozy igloos, and holiday cocktails under twinkling lights.
Several rooftop bars go all-out during the season, transforming into festive escapes high above Manhattan.
The most iconic is 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, famous for its heated igloos, holiday music, and stunning views of the Empire State Building. It gets crowded in December, but guests on our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour enjoy skip-the-line access and no cover charge, a huge perk during peak season.
Looking for something playful? Magic Hour Rooftop near Times Square goes bold with over-the-top holiday decor, themed drinks, and seasonal pop-up scenes. It’s fun, flashy, and very Instagram-worthy.
For a more low-key vibe, Mr. Purple on the Lower East Side offers subtle holiday touches, cozy fire pits, and downtown views, perfect for a more relaxed celebration.
Want more rooftop inspiration? Download our 2025 NYC Year-Round Guidebook, filled with our top rooftop picks for every season. And don’t miss our 2025 Christmas Edition Guidebook, launching September 1, with updated seasonal favorites and exclusive access tips. For a good preview, check out our free article on the best Christmas rooftops in New York.
Whether it’s a rooftop brunch, evening cocktail, or cider under the stars, these holiday bars offer a festive way to toast to Christmas in New York.
15. Visit the New York Botanical Garden and See the Holiday Train Show
For a peaceful and enchanting break from the city bustle, head to the Bronx for one of New York City’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden.
This magical display features dozens of model trains weaving through a miniature version of New York, built entirely from natural materials like bark, pinecones, and leaves. You’ll spot tiny replicas of landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Yankee Stadium, and the Statue of Liberty, all framed by lights and greenery.
It’s one of the best family-friendly Christmas things to do in NYC, and a great option if you’re looking to explore beyond Manhattan.
Stick around after sunset for NYBG Glow, the evening light experience that transforms the gardens into a sparkling winter wonderland.
Tickets for both the Train Show and NYBG Glow sell out quickly, especially on December weekends, so be sure to book early.
A visit to the New York Botanical Garden adds a calm, magical touch to your Christmas in New York 2025, full of nature, wonder, and holiday cheer.
Make Your 2025 Christmas in New York Truly Unforgettable
From glowing trees and iconic light displays to festive markets, rooftop bars, and timeless holiday shows, there’s simply nothing like Christmas in New York City 2025.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for your favorite tradition, this season promises to be more magical than ever. But with so many amazing things to do in New York at Christmas, planning ahead makes all the difference, especially with help from someone who knows the city like a local.
That’s why we created My Christmas in New York, to help you cut through the noise and experience only the best. From guided Christmas tours to handpicked restaurants, hotels, markets, and hidden gems, we’re here to make your holiday unforgettable.
Need help planning? Download our NYC Christmas & Beyond Guidebooks, filled with maps, tips, and exclusive perks.
Want real-time updates? Follow us on Instagram for tour openings, last-minute deals, and behind-the-scenes holiday magic.
Whether your perfect Christmas includes skating under the stars, walking through Dyker Heights, sipping cocoa on a cruise, or just soaking in the lights on Fifth Avenue, we’re here to help you experience it with ease, joy, and a little extra wonder.
See you in New York this Christmas!
Frequently Asked Questions about Christmas in New York
When does the holiday season start in New York City?
The festive season in New York begins right after Thanksgiving. Markets open, lights go up, and the city transforms by the last week of November.
How long do holiday decorations stay up in NYC?
Most lights and displays stay up through the first week of January. Major attractions like Rockefeller Center and Dyker Heights keep theirs lit well into the New Year.
Where is the main Christmas tree in New York located?
The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stands between 49th and 50th Street in Midtown Manhattan, just west of Fifth Avenue.
Is December a good time to visit New York City?
Absolutely. The holiday season in NYC is full of magic, from festive markets and light shows to Christmas concerts, rooftop bars, and winter cruises.
What’s the best Christmas tour in New York?
Our Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour covers Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue, and Papillon Christmas Restaurant. For a magical evening, don’t miss our Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour.
How do I get to Dyker Heights to see the lights?
It’s far from the subway and gets very crowded. Our guided tour includes round-trip transport, a one-hour walk through the best displays, and drop-off at Bryant Park with free hot chocolate.
What should I pack for the holiday season in NYC?
Expect cold weather in December. Bring a warm coat, scarf, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Layers help, especially for rooftop bars and outdoor markets.
Where can I go ice skating in New York during the holidays?
Top spots include Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park (free entry!), and Wollman Rink in Central Park. Each offers a unique winter experience.
Are restaurants open on Christmas Day in NYC?
Yes, many are, but book early. Some even offer festive holiday menus.
How can I plan the perfect holiday trip to NYC?
Start with our NYC Christmas Guidebook. It includes maps, tours, hotel picks, and exclusive tips. You can also follow us on Instagram for last-minute updates, openings, and special deals.
Can I visit Santa Claus in New York City?
Yes! The most iconic experience is at Macy’s Santaland in Herald Square. It’s free, but advance reservations are required and spots fill up quickly.
Are there holiday gospel concerts or church services in NYC?
Yes, from candlelit mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral to joyful Christmas gospel services in Harlem, you’ll find powerful spiritual moments across the city.
What is the Holiday Train Show in the Bronx?
The New York Botanical Garden hosts a stunning train show with model NYC landmarks made from natural materials. It’s one of the best family-friendly holiday experiences in New York.
Author: Written by Dora Formica on behalf of My Christmas in New York
