South Street Seaport Christmas Tree 2025 in New York
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree 2025 is one of the most picture-worthy holiday trees in New York. Set against the waterfront and historic ships, the Seaport tree lighting brings live music, family activities, and a festive neighborhood atmosphere. Many travelers add it to their holiday plans along with iconic attractions like Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park. You can find more inspiration in our complete guide to the Best Things to Do at Christmas in NYC.
Located in Lower Manhattan, this celebration is less crowded than Midtown and offers incredible photo opportunities. The annual lighting ceremony, expected in early December based on previous years, turns Seaport Square into a Christmas destination with performances, giveaways, and seasonal markets. On Instagram, follow MyChristmasInNewYorkCity for daily updates and real-time Christmas coverage from the city.
If you are looking for unique experiences beyond tree lightings, our tours combine New York’s most magical stops. Options include the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour with DUMBO views, the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour with rooftop igloos, and the Christmas Morning Tour with Papillon Christmas Restaurant. We also recently launched a new tour, the New York Movie Tour with Christmas Twist. These are the easiest ways to see NYC’s most festive sights without the stress of planning.
Table of Contents
What Makes the South Street Seaport Christmas Tree Special
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree shines as a festive gem that blends history with holiday spirit. It stands in Seaport Square, framed by 19th-century buildings and historic ships, creating a waterfront holiday setting unique to New York. Each year, the lighting ceremony fills the district with live music, community energy, and glowing ships reflected in the East River. The celebration feels intimate and rooted in the city’s maritime heritage, offering a refreshing alternative to the crowded Midtown trees.
Over the years, the Seaport Christmas Tree has grown into a cherished neighborhood tradition. It combines photo-worthy décor, lively performances, and historic surroundings, delivering a holiday experience that feels both local and authentic. Visitors return year after year to enjoy a setting that captures the true charm of Lower Manhattan during Christmas.
South Street Seaport Christmas Tree Lighting 2025: Date and Details
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree Lighting 2025 takes place on Tuesday, December 2. The celebration happens in Seaport Square at 89 South Street in Lower Manhattan. This waterfront location turns into one of the city’s most festive holiday spots, with music, markets, and family activities leading up to the tree lighting around 7 PM.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of entertainment, including choirs, dancers, and guest performers. The Seaport adds special touches each year, such as pop-up markets and community initiatives, which make the event both festive and meaningful. Families often find seasonal activities for children, creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming and inclusive.
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree Lighting offers a more intimate experience than the larger Midtown ceremonies. Historic ships, cobblestone streets, and East River views create a setting that blends maritime history with Christmas magic. The event is free, and while RSVP may be suggested, it is not required.
Singing Christmas Tree at South Street Seaport?
The South Street Seaport hosts lively musical performances during its annual tree lighting. However, a formal “Singing Christmas Tree,” with carolers arranged in a tree-shaped structure, is not part of the event. Instead, visitors enjoy live music, choir performances, and dance ensembles that bring the celebration to life. The Big Apple Chorus often performs and has become closely linked with the Seaport’s holiday programming. Their appearance gives the event a feel similar to a living Christmas tree, even without the staged setup. This mix of voices and instruments fills the waterfront with warmth, creating a festive atmosphere that adds to the magic of the South Street Seaport Christmas Tree.
Best Photo Spots of the Seaport Christmas Tree
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree ranks among the most picture-worthy holiday trees in New York. Its waterfront setting, framed by historic ships and the East River skyline, makes it a favorite for photographers and visitors.
Seaport Square offers the closest views, with cobblestone streets and restored 19th-century buildings glowing under the lights. On Pier 16, the tree can be captured alongside the tall masts of historic vessels, creating a striking contrast with the modern skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan. At night, the lights reflect across the water, producing one of the most atmospheric Christmas scenes in the city.
For a classic holiday photo, step back onto Fulton Street. From there, the tree stands framed by the festive crowd, capturing the energy of Christmas in New York. Each angle shows a new side of the South Street Seaport Christmas Tree, making it a must for anyone chasing photo-worthy holiday memories.
Holiday Activities and Events Around the Seaport
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree is only part of the holiday experience in this historic waterfront district. The tree itself is set in Seaport Square, where the annual lighting ceremony takes place. Nearby, Pier 16 often hosts festive markets and family activities, with vendors, seasonal crafts, and interactive booths adding to the community atmosphere. The historic ships docked along the pier are also decorated, creating a holiday backdrop unique to the Seaport.
Pier 17 complements the celebrations with additional seasonal programming. Known as the entertainment hub of the neighborhood, it frequently offers rooftop dining, heated igloos, winter installations, and holiday concerts. Many restaurants and bars in the Pier 17 complex release special menus for the season, giving visitors the chance to enjoy cozy meals while overlooking the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.
Together, Seaport Square, Pier 16, and Pier 17 create a festive triangle of activities. Visitors can shop, dine, and explore the waterfront, all within steps of the Seaport Christmas Tree. This combination makes the neighborhood one of the most authentic and diverse holiday destinations in Lower Manhattan.
Where to Eat and Drink Near the Seaport Tree
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree sits among some of the best holiday dining spots in Lower Manhattan. Pier 17 features standout restaurants such as The Fulton by Jean-Georges, offering seafood with sweeping waterfront views. Inside the Tin Building by Jean-Georges, visitors discover a gourmet food hall filled with festive pastries, seasonal cocktails, and warm treats that make it the perfect stop after the tree lighting.
For casual gatherings, Malibu Farm at Pier 17 serves farm-to-table comfort food with views of the Brooklyn Bridge. Nearby, Cobble & Co and Industry Kitchen welcome families and groups with hearty menus and festive holiday décor. Many restaurants also roll out seasonal specials, from spiced cocktails to limited-edition desserts, turning dining into part of the holiday fun.
Those craving something quick can grab hot chocolate or snacks from vendors on Pier 16 or inside the Tin Building. With so many options within steps of the Seaport Christmas Tree, it’s easy to combine the lighting ceremony with a full evening of food, drinks, and holiday cheer by the waterfront.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Visiting the South Street Seaport Christmas Tree?
The South Street Seaport Christmas Tree 2025 is absolutely worth visiting. Its historic location, waterfront views, and festive programming make it one of the most authentic holiday experiences in New York. Unlike the busier Midtown trees, this one offers a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, and anyone seeking a photogenic Christmas setting.
To make your visit even better, arrive early for the tree lighting, dress warmly for the East River breeze, and take time to explore nearby dining at Pier 17 or seasonal shopping on Pier 16. The lights, music, and holiday décor combine to create memories you will not find anywhere else in the city. Even if you miss the official lighting, or decide not to stop at the tree itself, the Seaport district remains a magnificent place to explore during the holidays, with cobblestone streets, historic ships, and sparkling views across the East River.
If you want to go beyond one tree, our Christmas tours give you the chance to see New York’s most iconic holiday sights with exclusive perks. Choose from the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour, the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour with rooftop igloos, the Christmas Morning Tour with Papillon Christmas Restaurant, or the New York Movie Tour with Christmas Twist. And don’t forget to explore our free blog, where you’ll find all our articles to help plan your perfect Christmas in New York.
Author: Written by Dora Formica on behalf of My Christmas in New York
