New York City at Christmas is a magical place. Skaters twirl in Central Park, window displays line Fifth Avenue, and some of the season's most famous performing arts events come to the city's theaters. When traveling in NYC at Christmas, take advantage of the myriad events offered throughout the city, from active events outdoors to cosy indoor traditions.
Ice Skating
Take advantage of the cold weather and head for Wollman or Lasker ice rinks in Central Park or Rockefeller Center. For a particularly magical experience, come at night, when the lights cast a glow over the ice. All three rinks rent skates by the hour.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Check out the limber Rockettes at the Radio City Music Hall in their Christmas Spectacular show for a quintessential NYC experience. Shows start in early November; book tickets early to guarantee a seat.
The Nutcracker
For a truly traditional NYC Christmas experience, get tickets for the New York City Ballet's performances of the Nutcracker. Watch the spectacular performance at the David H. Koch Theater, and make an evening of it by dressing up in your holiday finest.
Winter's Eve at Lincoln Square
Feel like a part of the NYC neighborhood at the Winter's Eve celebration, which involves a tree-lighting ceremony and special events around the Lincoln Square area. Walk from store to store for tastings, Christmas music, and other holiday traditions.
Window Displays
Each Christmas, Barney's department store in New York puts up creative and extravagant holiday window displays. Each year, the windows follow a specific theme. Grab a hot chocolate from a street vendor and stroll down Madison Avenue at night for the best views. Other stores that have window displays include Lord & Taylor, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdales.
Grand Central
Join the throngs of commuters and tourists at Grand Central Station for a regular light display each Christmas. Afterwards, head to the Holiday fair to get some Christmas shopping out of the way.
Christmas Tree Tour
NYC is home to some of the world's most famous Christmas trees. Lace up your walking shoes and head first to Rockefeller Center to ogle the towering tree with the crowds of tourists. Then, visit the American Museum of Natural History's tree on Central Park West before walking over to Park Avenue to check out the memorial trees. If you still have time and energy, visit the Cathedral of St. John the Divine Peace Tree on Amsterdam Avenue.
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