New York City during Christmas feels like stepping into a holiday movie — streets glowing with lights, classic shows filling theaters, and neighborhoods turning into winter wonderlands. For 2025, the city is packed with iconic traditions and new seasonal experiences. Here’s a full guide to the best things to do this Christmas in New York, written in simple, original language so you can use it directly for your website or media page.

1. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Skate the Rink

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree remains the most famous holiday symbol in the city. The lighting ceremony takes place in early December, and the tree stays lit every day through the season. The ice rink below is open daily with timed reservations. If you want fewer crowds, go early morning or late evening on a weekday.

2. Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular (The Rockettes)

The Rockettes’ annual Christmas Spectacular runs from November through early January every year. It features precision dancing, big sets, and classic holiday scenes. Weekend showtimes often sell out, so booking ahead is highly recommended.

3. Explore the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

Held in the Bronx, the Holiday Train Show is one of NYC’s most beloved traditions. Model trains run through handcrafted miniature versions of city landmarks, all made from natural materials. The 2025 show offers special nighttime sessions and timed entry to help control crowds.

4. Visit the Bryant Park Winter Village

Bryant Park transforms into a full winter market with dozens of holiday shops, festive food stalls, and a large ice rink. Skating is free if you bring your own skates, and the village stays open every day through the holiday season. It’s one of the best spots for gifts and seasonal snacks.

5. Shop the City’s Holiday Markets

New York hosts several major holiday markets, including the Union Square Holiday Market, Columbus Circle Holiday Market, and the Grand Central indoor market. These run from mid-November through late December and feature handmade gifts, winter accessories, art, and gourmet treats. They’re great for last-minute holiday shopping.

6. See the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in Brooklyn

Dyker Heights is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations. Entire blocks are covered with giant inflatables, glowing light displays, and massive lawn decorations. Tours run nightly, but you can also walk through the neighborhood on your own. Weekdays are less crowded.

7. Walk Fifth Avenue and See the Holiday Window Displays

Stores along Fifth Avenue, from Saks to Bergdorf Goodman and Macy’s, unveil new themed holiday windows every year. These displays are elaborate, artistic, and perfect for a classic NYC winter stroll. Go after sunset when the lights are at their best.

8. Check Out Holiday Lights and Local Events Across the Boroughs

Beyond Manhattan, each borough hosts its own seasonal events, including neighborhood light displays, holiday concerts, winter festivals, and family programming at museums. It’s worth browsing local calendars for smaller but memorable experiences.

9. Enjoy Holiday Food Pop-Ups and Seasonal Dining

Restaurants and bars across the city offer Christmas-themed menus, specialty cocktails, winter-themed pop-up bars, and holiday afternoon teas. Many hotels also host special Christmas-week dinners. Reservations are recommended during peak days.

10. Find Kid-Friendly Holiday Activities

Families will find plenty to do, including children’s theater performances, gingerbread workshops, skating lessons, cookie-decorating events, and holiday-themed shows. The New Victory Theater often hosts family-focused holiday productions.

11. Take a Winter Walk Through Central Park

Central Park is peaceful and beautiful during the holidays, especially after a snowfall. Woolman Rink offers outdoor ice skating with skyline views, and the park’s bridges and paths make for great winter photography.

12. Visit the NYC Museums With Holiday Exhibits

Several museums introduce limited-time exhibits and festive events around Christmas. Whether it’s a winter art installation, a holiday music performance, or special programming at the Met, museums offer a warm escape from the cold while still staying in the holiday spirit.

Tips for Planning Christmas in NYC

Buy tickets early. Rockefeller events, Radio City, and the Train Show often sell out. Use public transit. Holiday traffic in Midtown is extremely heavy. Expect crowds. Weekends and the week before Christmas are the busiest. Dress warm. NYC winters can be windy and freezing, especially at night. Check schedules before going. Weather and event times can change.