New York Christmas: 2025 NYC Holiday Season Guide
Planning your New York Christmas 2025 trip and wondering when NYC starts decorating for the holiday season? You’re in the right place. We are the My Christmas in New York on Instagram team, and in this guide, we’ll help you choose the best time to visit New York for Christmas in 2025.
From Christmas Tree lighting ceremonies, including Rockefeller Center, to light shows on Fifth Avenue, festive markets, and Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tours, this article covers it all.
You’ll also find the most festive Christmas restaurants in New York, such as Papillon Bistro, and some of the best holiday-themed hotels in the city.
This guide is your complete New York City Christmas calendar for 2025. Keep reading to find out when New York decorates for Christmas, which events you can’t miss, and where to find the most Christmassy places in New York.
If you’re looking for a more detailed list of the best things to do in New York City during Christmas, visit our complete guide here: Christmas in New York 2025 – The Best Things to Do!
Table of Contents
Discovering the Holiday Season 2025 in NYC
Spending Christmas in New York 2025 means stepping into a magical world of lights, festive sounds, and unforgettable decorations. The city comes alive with holiday shows, iconic trees, and beautifully dressed windows from mid-November.
One of the best ways to enjoy the season is by visiting New York’s Christmas-themed restaurants. Papillon, located just steps from Central Park, transforms into a holiday wonderland each November. With twinkling lights and festive décor, it’s become a favorite for visitors and locals alike. You can even enjoy it as the final stop of our popular My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour by skipping the line and having a guaranteed reserved table at the end of the tour!
But when does New York actually start decorating for Christmas in 2025? And when does the city begin to feel like a winter wonderland?
You’ve seen it in movies like Home Alone 2, Elf, and Miracle on 34th Street. These films show the magic of New York during the holidays, and now you can visit the best of those filming locations on our newly launched New York Movie Tour.
In this article, you’ll find the full calendar of 2025 holiday events in NYC. From tree lighting ceremonies to festive markets and light shows, we’ll highlight all the dates and places you need to know.
If you’re looking to experience the best of New York Christmas with expert guides and exclusive access, take a look at our selection of Christmas tours in NYC.
2025 New York Christmas Calendar
Wondering what date the Christmas lights go on in New York in 2025? Or when the Rockefeller Tree arrives? Our 2025 New York Christmas Calendar shows all the key events and dates for the upcoming holiday season. From the first ice rinks opening in October to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting in early December, this timeline helps you plan your trip with ease.
You’ll also find the start dates for our most popular tours, including the My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour with Papillon Christmas Restaurant, the New York Movie Tour, the Dyker Heights and DUMBO Tour with Free Hot Chocolate, and the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour with Rooftop Bar Access. If you’re looking for the best things to do in New York City during Christmas, this calendar gives you a complete overview.
It also highlights major events like the Macy’s Christmas windows, Fifth Avenue decorations, the Shine Bright installation at Hudson Yards, and the iconic Radio City Rockettes show.
Make sure to save this image and use it to plan your New York Christmas 2025 experience.
Get Ready For The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year In The City That Never Sleeps
Christmas in New York 2025 means tree lightings, festive events, and that unmistakable holiday magic. Did you know that New York City hosts more than 80 Christmas tree lighting ceremonies each season? In this guide, we’ll cover the most important ones, complete with dates, times, and tips, and answer one of the most common questions: when does New York decorate for Christmas in 2025?
Here’s one thing you should know. All tree lighting ceremonies and holiday light shows in New York City are completely free. If someone tries to sell you a ticket, do not buy it. Unfortunately, ticket scams around free Christmas events are common. It’s one of several frauds to watch out for when visiting New York during the holidays.
If you ever have a doubt or need help while you’re in the city, feel free to message us on Instagram or WhatsApp, or email us directly. We’ll always do our best to help you make the most of your New York Christmas 2025 experience.
So, get ready to dive into the city’s holiday spirit and find out exactly when New York starts decorating for Christmas this year.
The Official Start Of Christmas Decorations In NYC
Have you ever tried asking for the official start date of Christmas in New York? You’ll hear many different answers. Some say the city is fully decorated by early December. Others believe the Christmas spirit arrives just after Thanksgiving.
In this guide, we give you the real answer to the question: when does New York decorate for Christmas in 2025?
From experience, we know that the first lights and decorations start appearing in early November. But some of the city’s most iconic holiday attractions begin even earlier. The Bryant Park Winter Village, with its Christmas Market and free-admission ice rink, opens on October 24, 2025. Just one day later, on October 25, Wollman Rink in Central Park should also open for the season.
That means some of New York’s Christmas activities begin before the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, which takes place on October 31.
From late October through early November, you’ll see more lights, trees, and decorations pop up across the city. Still, the true holiday feeling officially begins with Thanksgiving. On November 27, 2025, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off the Christmas season in New York. From that moment on, the city feels like a winter wonderland.
In the next sections, we’ll explore everything that happens from October to December, and help you plan your visit at the perfect time.
All-Year-Round NYC Christmas Decorations NYC: Where Are The Best Ones?
Planning a trip to New York outside of the 2025 holiday season, but still craving some festive spirit? There are places across the city where the magic of Christmas lasts all year.
One of the most well-known is Rolf’s, a German restaurant located on 22nd Street and 3rd Avenue. Famous for its dense and colorful Christmas decor, it stays decorated year-round. While Rolf’s is worth a visit for photos and atmosphere, it’s often crowded in December and less polished out of season. Food reviews are mixed, and decorations can gather dust over time. That’s why we recommend visiting outside peak season, for a quick snack and to snap a few memorable pictures.
For a more curated holiday dining experience, Papillon Bistro is our top pick, but keep in mind that it transforms into a Christmas-themed restaurant only during the holiday season, usually starting in late November. That’s also when we launch our My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour, which ends with exclusive access, skip the line and a guaranteed reserved table at Papillon under its glowing lights and festive decor.
If you’re shopping for ornaments or holiday gifts any time of year, don’t miss the Christmas Cottage in Times Square. Located near the red steps, this shop brings the spirit of New York Christmas to every season.
And for something truly special, head to the Christmas in New York shop in Little Italy, Manhattan. It’s a magical, all-year-round destination featured in our New York Movie Tour: Christmas, Shopping and Beyond. This tour runs throughout the year and offers a unique Christmas twist. You’ll also have the chance to reserve your own original Home Alone 2 Turtle Doves, a one-of-a-kind New York souvenir available exclusively to our guests.
No matter when you visit, you can always find a bit of New York Christmas magic.
Christmas In New York 2025: Holiday Season Activities In October
When does New York decorate for Christmas in 2025? Surprisingly, some festive activities begin before Halloween. While full decorations appear in November, several key holiday attractions start as early as October.
The season kicks off with the Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink, which opens on October 11, 2025. Even without the tree, skating in this iconic spot across from Saks Fifth Avenue already feels magical.
On October 24, the Bryant Park Winter Village opens to the public. This popular Midtown market offers dozens of holiday-themed shops, seasonal treats, and one of the most picturesque ice rinks in New York City. Access to the rink is free, you only pay for skate rentals.
Just one day later, on October 25, Wollman Rink in Central Park opens for the winter season. Nestled among trees with skyline views, it’s a beautiful way to enjoy early holiday vibes.
While New York isn’t fully decorated yet in October, these attractions mark the quiet beginning of the Christmas season. If you’re visiting early, you’ll already find lights, markets, and ice skating, perfect for getting into the festive mood before the crowds arrive.
Christmas In New York 2025: Holiday Season Activities In November (Part 1)
November is the month when the holiday spirit truly takes over New York City. While many believe December is the most festive, the real magic starts weeks earlier. If you’re planning a New York Christmas trip, this is the time to go.
The first major event is the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall with the Rockettes. Performances begin on November 7, 2025, and offer a 90-minute show filled with music, dancing, and holiday cheer.
Around November 8 or 15, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is expected to arrive in Midtown. While the official lighting is in December, the tree’s arrival is a key moment of the season and draws large crowds.
On November 13, Macy’s unveils its famous Christmas windows at Herald Square. That same day, the Union Square Christmas Market opens, filled with handcrafted gifts, festive food, and seasonal drinks, perfect for early holiday shopping. Consider that this market is included as a 45-minute stop in our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour.
November 21 marks the lighting of the Fox Square Christmas Tree. With over 300,000 lights, it adds a bright touch to Midtown and is a great photo stop during your holiday strolls.
On November 24, Hudson Yards will turn on over two million lights in one of the city’s most dazzling modern displays. From glowing trees to illuminated shopping arcades, it’s become a must-see for locals and tourists alike.
Christmas In New York 2025: Holiday Season Activities In November (Part 2)
Mid to late November is when New York City transforms into a true Christmas wonderland. Lights, markets, and iconic windows take over the city, making this the perfect time to experience the holiday season.
Fifth Avenue storefronts like Cartier, Tiffany, and Louis Vuitton begin revealing their holiday decorations from mid-November. While there’s no fixed date, most lights are up by the third week of the month. For live updates, follow our Instagram page My Christmas in New York.
As for Saks Fifth Avenue, the status of its Light Show Opening Ceremony remains unknown. In 2024, the show did not take place for the first time, and no announcement has been made yet for 2025.
On November 26, the Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Inflation takes place outside the American Museum of Natural History. It runs from midday to early evening. To avoid long lines, we suggest arriving by 11 AM the latest.
Then, on November 27, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade officially launches the Christmas season. It travels from the Upper West Side to Herald Square. For a good view along the route, arrive by 5:30 AM.
November in New York delivers the magic you’ve seen in holiday movies, live, glowing, and unforgettable.
Christmas In New York 2025: Holiday Season Activities In December
December in New York City is all about lights, trees, and unforgettable atmosphere. While most decorations are already up by late November, December brings the final touch of magic with the city’s most iconic Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies. From Rockefeller Center to Wall Street, this is the time when New York shines brightest.
The Most Iconic Tree Lighting Ceremonies In New York
After exploring the key events of the 2025 holiday season in NYC, it’s time to highlight three of the most iconic Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies in the city. These events bring magic, lights, and a true sense of celebration to neighborhoods across Manhattan.
The Bryant Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 2, 2025. It’s a lesser-known gem compared to Rockefeller, but just as charming. The event features a professional ice skating show and a festive atmosphere right in the heart of Midtown. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the season without the heavy crowds.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for December 3, 2025. This is the most famous holiday event in New York City, attracting thousands of visitors. The tree is decorated with over 50,000 lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star. It’s a must-see moment that truly defines Christmas in New York.
On December 4, 2025, the Wall Street Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place in the Financial District. The event begins at 6 PM and offers a more intimate and local vibe. It’s also one of the featured stops on our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour, giving you the chance to enjoy it with a guided experience and festive extras.
These ceremonies are highlights of the season and a wonderful way to see New York at its most magical.
Christmas In New York 2025: Conclusion On The Key Events
New York Christmas 2025 promises a magical experience from start to finish. Beginning in early November, the city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with lights, music, and festive spirit. You’ll find iconic skating rinks open at Central Park and Bryant Park, and dazzling displays at Hudson Yards, Fifth Avenue, and Rockefeller Center.
Holiday markets like Union Square and Bryant Park bring together unique gifts, seasonal treats, and Christmas charm. Papillon Bistro becomes one of the city’s most festive restaurants, while hotels like the Plaza, Lotte New York Palace, and The Peninsula sparkle with lights and towering trees. Holiday shows like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and tree lighting ceremonies across the city bring the season to life.
No New York Christmas is complete without seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. This Brooklyn neighborhood transforms into a glowing wonderland and is featured in our guided tours for an unforgettable evening of festive fun.
Even outside of the season, you can enjoy a holiday vibe at the Christmas in New York shop in Little Italy, the Christmas Cottage in Times Square, or by joining our year-round New York Movie Tour with a Christmas twist.
Whether you’re shopping, skating, or simply soaking in the lights, New York Christmas 2025 offers something unforgettable for everyone. Follow us on Instagram and check out our guided tours for the latest updates, tips, and exclusive experiences.
Plan your visit today. There’s truly no place like New York for Christmas!
Author: Written by Dora Formica on behalf of My Christmas in New York
