If you’re visiting New York in December, get ready to see the city decked out in its holiday best! Christmas trees strung with colorful lights twinkle across the city, the earthy scent of roasted chestnuts permeates the air, and Christmas carols are piped through department store speakers everywhere.
In other words, the very air itself seems charged with the spirit of Christmas.
Read on, first for tips and information on the weather and how to dress, and then for tons of ideas on things to do in New York City in December, with a strong focus on Christmas in New York 2023!
December in New York belongs to the Christmas season. If you’d rather skip over the holiday season altogether and visiting when it’s over, please read How to Make the Most Out of Winter in New York City, where you’ll learn that January and February are the least expensive months to visit!
Weather in New York in December
In the month of December, average high temperatures range from 42 to 49 degrees Fahrenheit (5.5-9.5 Celsius). Lows range from 31 to 38F (0-3.3 Celsius). NYC in December tends to be overcast or cloudy about 50 percent of the time. It rains on average eight days in December.
FAQs about New York Weather in December
As we move from fall to winter, December is a transitional month in regards to the weather in New York, making it difficult to pin down precisely what to expect. Read on for the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Does it snow in New York in December?
Snow is unlikely in New York City in December, which may be disappointing to those hoping for a white Christmas. On average, it snows only 2-3 days out of the month. Snow is more likely from January-March, the latter of which is the snowiest month.
Is December a good month to visit NYC?
Make no mistake, New York in December is all about Christmas! For some people, it’s a dream come true to see the city decorated in its holiday best and to let the spirit of the holiday season wash over them.
But if you love Christmas, remember that millions of other people do, too!
In other words, the city is extremely crowded. In fact, December is one of the busiest times of year to visit, especially in the days just before and after Christmas. Peak season also means hotels are at their most expensive.
It’s also a month of cold weather, though the coldest temperatures arrive in January. If you’ve always wanted to experience the magic of Christmas in New York City, and if you don’t mind some cold, uncertain weather, then my final answer is YES, December is a great month to visit!
If you’re not thrilled with the idea of crowded attractions and unpredictable, possibly nasty weather, consider visiting in late spring or fall.
What should I wear in New York City in December?
As mentioned above, the New York City temperature in December ranges from around 31 to 49F (0-9.5 Celsius).
We all differ when it comes to our tolerance for cold weather, so let me give some context by saying that my personal tolerance for the cold is low. I can’t stand feeling a chill and I’m a downright crybaby on bitter winter days, especially if the wind is relentless.
With that in mind, in December, I usually wear a wool peacoat if the temperature is in the high 30s or 40s or higher, though if it’s particularly windy or rainy, I might dress warmer. When the temperature drops to around 35F or lower, I break out my puffy down winter jacket.
Throughout December, a warm scarf is essential, as is a knit hat. And I always carry a pair of cheap knit gloves or mittens to slip on and off, which running around in a city seems to necessitate.
Once the weather gets cold, you’ll find plenty of street vendors selling scarves, hats, and gloves for fairly cheap prices, especially in the touristy areas.
In December, I recommend wearing a long-sleeved sweater or sweatshirt under your jacket but in my opinion, you don’t need much more layering than that. Leggings or thermals under your trousers are not necessary, unless your trousers are very thin.
Wearing an additional layer under trousers tends to be very bulky for the type of moving you do in a city. And if you’re visiting museums, shops, and restaurants, and taking the subway, you’ll end up boiling hot whenever you’re indoors. Trust me, there’s nothing more uncomfortable than standing in a crowded, hot subway car while sweat trickles down your spine beneath hot layers of clothing!
I also recommend comfortable, waterproof shoes and warm, sweat-wicking socks. Heavy snow boots are uncomfortable for the amount of walking you’re likely to do, and probably not necessary due to the small amount of snow we get.
Now read on for the many fabulous things to do in New York in December!
1. Visit the World-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The fabulous Rockefeller Center tree soars nearly eight stories in the air and is topped with a 900-pound Swarovski Star composed of 3 million crystals. Millions of spectators pass by throughout the holiday season, or glide by on ice skates, to see for themselves this cornerstone attraction of Christmas in New York.
The custom dates back to 1931, when Rockefeller Center was still under construction. Workers purchased and decorated the first tree, which stood at 20-feet high. The first tree lighting ceremony was held two years later, and the annual tradition was born.
Each year, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is typically a Norway Spruce from upstate New York or surrounding states. This year, the 80-foot-tall tree is from Vestal, NY.
FAQs about the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
When does the tree arrive in Rockefeller Center?
The tree usually arrives in early to mid-November. It is put in its place in Rockefeller Center and is surrounded by scaffolding to aid in its decoration.
When is the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony?
The ceremony typically takes place the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. This year, it’s November 29. The tree tree lighting ceremony is open to the public, however, spectators must arrive several hours beforehand to secure a good viewing spot.
The best way to watch is on television! The ceremony will be broadcast live on NBC beginning at 8 p.m. It’s co-hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Craig Melvin, and Mario Lopez. A slew of special musical guests perform. Previous acts have included Alicia Keys, Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton, Andrea Bocelli, the Muppets of Sesame Street, and more!
The tree’s 50,000 lights will be lit for the first time at 9 p.m.
When is the tree lit during the day?
After the tree lighting ceremony, the Rockefeller Center tree will be lit daily from 5 a.m. to midnight. On Christmas Day, it will remain lit for 24 hours. On New Year’s Eve, the hours are 5 a.m.-9 p.m. If you’re an early riser, avoid the biggest crowds by visiting before before the sun comes up!
How long will the tree be up?
The exact date for the tree to be taken down changes from year to year. This holiday season, it is scheduled to stay in place until January 13, 2024. Stay informed with all the latest updates!
2. See the Iconic Radio City Rockettes
Disclosure: Please note this section contains affiliate links, which means, at no additional cost to you, I may receive a commission if you make a purchase. Be assured that I only recommend products and companies I use and trust.
No matter how many times you see the synchronized high kicks, the toy soldiers tumbling like dominoes, or the nativity scene surrounded by live animals, the Christmas Spectacular Starring The Radio City Rockettes never gets old.
In any given performance, 36 Rockettes are on stage performing their precision dance steps. Tiny microphones are inserted in the heels of their shoes to amplify the tapping sound, and more than 1,000 costumes are worn by the cast in each show. And while some iconic numbers are repeated from year to year, they do add new song and dance routines and costumes to keep the show fresh.
The precision dance troupe was originally founded in St. Louis in 1925. They first performed at Radio City in 1932 and have been a fixture in American culture ever since. It is one of the absolute best things to do in New York City at Christmas.
- Dates: November 17, 2023-January 4, 2024. Several performances throughout the day.
- Duration: 90 minutes with no intermission.
- Cost: Tickets range in cost, depending on the time and day of the performance. Prices typically increase after Thanksgiving and decrease after Christmas. You may find discounts on sites such as Groupon.
3. Spend the Day at Bryant Park Winter Village
Fulfill your holiday wishes at a midtown Manhattan park that transforms into an annual winter wonderland!
First, lace up your own skates (or rent a pair) and do laps around the ice rink, past the festive 55-foot-high Christmas tree (this year’s tree lighting is on November 28 at 6 p.m.).
Prefer to be a spectator? Check the schedule for special skate performances.
When it’s time to refuel, warm up at the rinkside Lodge Bar + Food Hall, a covered, heated space that serves food as well as warm-up drinks like mulled wine, spiked hot chocolate, and Irish coffee. Next to the Lodge Bar, various local food vendors sell baked goods, pita sandwiches, fried chicken, dumplings, and much more!
Want your own private space? Cozy Igloos may be reserved for 90-minute sessions. You could also reserve a lane at the Curling Café & Bar. Reservations include your own curling lane and heated dome.
Interested in trying Bumper Cars on Ice? This activity usually returns to the rink in January.
Finally, check off items on your list as you shop at the pop-up holiday market for unique handmade gifts and souvenirs (more on this below).
- Ice skating: Admission is free. Skate rentals range in price depending on time and day of reservation. Additional fees apply for skate aid rentals, socks, skate sharpening, and bag check.
- Skating reservations are required even if you’re using your own skates.
- Dates: Bryant Park Winter Village takes place from October 27, 2023-March 3, 2024. The Holiday Shops close on January 2, 2024.
4. Do all Your Holiday Shopping at the Christmas Markets in NYC
Peruse the festive open-air holiday shops for locally made and unique gifts and souvenirs you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. There are several European-inspired open-air Christmas markets in New York City.
Bryant Park Holiday Shops
As mentioned above, Bryant Park’s Winter Village includes a holiday market, where you can purchase exquisite handmade jewelry, glass blown Christmas ornaments, paintings depicting quintessential New York City scenes, clothing, and much more.
- Dates: October 27, 2023-January 2, 2024
- Hours: Monday-Friday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Many shops are open later, especially on weekends.
- Location: Bryant Park
Union Square Holiday Market
Browse the shops of more than 160 vendors for a range of quality gifts and souvenirs made by local artists. The biggest Barnes and Noble bookstore in the U.S. is also located in Union Square so there’s plenty of shopping to be done outside the holiday market, too!
- Dates: November 16-December 24, 2023
- Hours: Weekdays: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day. Closes at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
- Location: Union Square, from 14th-17th Streets between Broadway and Union Square East.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Local artisans, designers, and restaurants come together and offer a festive month of holiday shopping and eating. Conveniently located near the southwest entrance to Central Park.
- Dates: November 28-December 31, 2023
- Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Closes at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Closed Christmas Day.
- Location: 59th Street and Central Park West
Grand Central Holiday Fair
While similar to the open-air Christmas markets mentioned above, Grand Central’s holiday market is entirely indoors, located inside New York’s world-famous Beaux Arts transportation hub. Vendors will be set up in Vanderbilt Hall, selling a range of gifts and souvenirs that you can browse at your leisure, without the intrusion of weather.
This is an excellent option is there’s an especially cold or windy December day.
- Dates: November 13-December 24, 2023
- Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Open Christmas Eve 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Location: Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal
5. Browse Unique Shops Around Town
The Christmas markets in New York City are an awesome seasonal event, but if you’d like a slightly different vibe, there are lots of smaller, local shopping experiences. Here’s a short list of some of my favorite places to browse and purchase unique New York City souvenirs and gifts.
Domus NYC
A lovely local boutique selling handcrafted merchandise inspired by the owners’ worldwide travels. If you’re looking to shop local in New York City, this is the place! Find colorful beaded jewelry, throws and pillows in eye-catching patterns, candles, soaps, glassware, and much more. 413 W. 44th St. (between 9th and 10th Ave.), New York, NY
Fishs Eddy
Delightfully mismatched dishware, themed kitchen linens, vintage lighting, and lots of fun, New York-themed merchandise is for sale at this quirky home goods store near the Flatiron Building. 889 Broadway (between 19th St. and 20th St.), New York, NY
The New York Public Library Shop
Located inside the Fifth Avenue library branch (yes, the one with the lions!), the NYPL shop is for book lovers and anyone with a fondness for literary New York City. Shop for books, stationary, clothing, accessories, and NYPL-themed tchotchkes you won’t find anywhere else. 476 W. 42nd St. (at Fifth Avenue), New York, NY
Christmas in New York
The flagship store in Little Italy is a must for diehard Christmas ornament collectors. Year-round, shoppers will find decorated Christmas trees, scenes of the holidays in New York in miniature, and a selection of decorations and ornaments you have to see to believe! 142 Mulberry Street, New York, NY
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6. Get Tickets to an Iconic Christmas Show in New York City
As mentioned above, The Radio City Rockettes are the quintessential performers to see during Christmas in New York City. But so much more is available if you’d like your trip to revolve around Christmas shows.
The Nutcracker Presented by the New York City Ballet
Fulfill your holiday dreams by watching Tschaikovsky’s famous fairy tale, which premiered on stage in 1892. Audience members at George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker will be transported to a land of fantasy as giant mice, toy soldiers, whimsical flowers, candy canes, and snowflakes dance their way across the stage. The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition that everyone should experience at least once. Suitable for ages 5 and up.
- Dates: November 24-December 31, 2023.
- Location: David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY.
- Run time: Approximately 2 hours.
- Cost: Ticket prices vary.
The Brooklyn Nutcracker
The Brooklyn Ballet adds elements of hip hop and global dance styles to reflect Brooklyn’s diverse culture in this reimagined version of The Nutcracker. Audience members will be delighted to see Tschaikovsky’s traditional tale performed with inclusivity in mind. Spectators familiar with the classic production will recognize favorite characters and likely appreciate the diversity The Brooklyn Nutcracker brings to the roles.
- Dates: One day only: December 16, 2023 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Location: King’s Theater, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, NY
- Cost: Ticket prices vary.
A Christmas Carol at The Merchant’s House Museum
Here’s another chance to hear Dickens’ famous holiday tale in a setting more intimate than a Broadway theater. Charles Dickens in New York, 1867, performed in association with Summoners Ensemble Theatre, takes place in the double parlor at the Merchant’s House Museum, an 1832 home in the East Village that’s known for resident ghosts that have been seen by staff, visitors, and neighbors.
Attendees will see actor John Kevin Jones deliver the candlelit storytelling performance, surrounded by Victorian-era Christmas decorations.
When purchasing tickets, guests have two options: Performance Only and Reception & Performance. The latter includes a reception with mulled wine, access to additional rooms in the home, and a special performance of A Visit From St. Nicholas. The reception takes place one hour before the main performance.
Dates are limited and the event typically sells out quickly.
- Dates: November 28-December 24, 2023.
- Location: Merchant’s House Museum, 29 East Fourth Street, New York, NY
- Run time: 70 minutes.
- Cost: $45-115.
7. See Department Store Christmas Window Displays
Animated Christmas displays with over-the-top decorations in posh department store windows is one of the holiday traditions I look forward to the most!
Every year, luxury department stores throughout midtown Manhattan transform their window displays into wonderful, whimsical Christmas landscapes. And while the themes and decorations vary from year to year, one thing is consistent—they always go big!
While these holiday windows become more and more crowded as December marches on, seeing the decorations around town is one of the top things to do in NYC in December.
And something very exciting is happening for the second year in a row! Fifth Avenue will close to traffic for three Sundays in December from noon to 6 p.m. From 48th St. to 59th St., vehicles will not be permitted on Fifth Ave. for those six hours. This year’s Holiday Open Streets on Fifth Avenue will take place on December 3, 10, and 17, 2023.
That will give pedestrians the first-ever opportunity to stroll down the iconic avenue and take in the department store decorations without the typical New York City traffic whizzing by at all hours! And even more exciting, food vendors and local musicians will be on-site, creating a festive New York experience for all.
The department stores below that fall into this location are Saks, Cartier, and Bergdorf Goodman.
Read on for the most iconic holiday window displays that you cannot miss.
Macy’s Christmas Windows
A tradition since 1874, Macy’s Holiday Window will be on display from November 16-January 1. The 2023 theme is Give Love. 151 W. 34th St., New York, NY (Herald Square)
Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
The unveiling takes place on November 20, 2023 at 7 p.m. The lights here are astounding in number, with hundreds of thousands of LED lights decorating up to ten stories.
If you miss the unveiling, don’t worry! Sak’s Fifth Avenue puts on their Christmas lights show several times each evening throughout the season. The display typically remains through the end of December. 611 Fifth Ave., New York, NY
Cartier
This neoclassical Fifth Avenue mansion is made even more elegant with simple yet classic decorations! 653 Fifth Ave., New York, NY
Bergdorf Goodman Holiday Windows
A high-end department store that outdoes itself year after year with extravagant holiday windows known for standing out from the crowd. The theme this year is Isn’t it Brilliant. Unveiling: November 17 at 6 p.m. 754 Fifth Ave., New York, NY (2023 unveiling date has not been announced yet).
Bloomingdale’s
The theme on Lexington Ave. this year is Best Holiday Ever. The unveiling takes place on November 16 at 6:30 p.m. and is hosted by Amber Ruffin and Jonathan Groff. 1000 Third Ave., New York, NY.
8. See the Festive Hudson Yards Christmas Lights
This New York City neighborhood made its debut in 2019 and has since become known for its seasonal special events, from summer outdoor movies to Lunar New Year Celebrations.
And they go all out for Christmas, too! Visit Hudson Yards, located at the northern end of the High Line, and you’ll see a wonderland of sparkling lights decorating the Vessel, the Shops at Hudson Yards, and surrounding buildings. The display is made even more dazzling by the uber-modern design of Hudson Yards.
- Dates: November 13, 2023-early Jan., 2024
9. Sip Cocktails at Holiday-Themed Bars & Restaurants
Ready to be utterly immersed in festive holiday decorations? If so, head to an enchanting Christmas-themed bar or restaurant. As the trend of holiday bars gains in popularity, so do the extravagance of the holiday decorations.
Rolf’s German Restaurant
The most well-known and–as far that I’ve seen–the most elaborately decked out of all holiday restaurants is Rolf’s German Restaurant. The decorations consist of consist of vintage ornaments, porcelain dolls, adorned trees and wreaths, and thousands upon thousands of twinkling lights strung throughout the interior. It all comes together to replicate an over-the-top Victorian-era Christmas. 281 Third Ave., New York, NY
Important note: Christmas decorations are up year-round at Rolf’s but during the holiday season, dining reservations are booked months in advance. For example, if you try to make a reservation in November for sometime in December, you might be out of luck.
Furthermore, during the holiday season, it’s nearly impossible to get through to them with the phone numbers provided on their website, and there’s no option to make online reservations. Customers without reservations can stand in line and wait to have a (very expensive) drink at the bar, however, it’s incredibly crowded inside, which may be unpleasant for anyone who dislikes crowds.
Rolf’s is popular for a reason. The Christmas decorations are like none I’ve ever seen before. But if you don’t make it inside Rolf’s, or would rather not fight the holiday crowd, there are plenty of other bars where you can celebrate the spirit of Christmas!
Lille’s Victorian Restaurant
Lille’s Victorian Restaurant has a delightful, old-fashioned ambiance any time of year. During the holidays, the walls and ceilings are decorated with stuffed Santa’s and reindeer, brightly colored bulbs, red ribbons, green garland, and twinkling multi-colored lights.
Walk-ins are welcome if space allows and reservations can be made online. Lillie’s Union Square: 13 East 17th St., New York, NY.
Papillon Bistro & Bar
When you’re done snapping selfies at the Rockefeller Center tree, walk less than 10 minutes from there to Papillon Bistro & Bar. Here you’ll be surrounded by lavish Christmas decorations while you dine on French cuisine or sip a specialty cocktail at the bar.
Walk-ins are welcome if space allows and reservations can be made online. 22 E. 54th St., New York, NY.
Miracle Holiday Pop-Ups
You can also visit annual holiday pop-up bars. As they are each year, Miracle on 9th Street and Miracle on Union will delight customers with festive cocktails served in kitschy mugs and all-out cheery holiday decor! See more information on the Miracle Pop-Up website. Miracle on 9th Street: 649 E. 9th St., New York, NY. Miracle on Union: 595 Union Ave., Brooklyn, NY.
Oscar Wilde
Finally, the always whimsical Oscar Wilde, a bar & restaurant inspired by the Irish poet and playwright it’s named after, creates a winter wonderland of decorations for the holiday season.
Loaded with historical artifacts like a French fireplace from the 1840s, an 1819 Player Piano, and 26 antique clocks all set to the time of the eccentric writer’s death, Oscar Wilde is fun to visit any time of year. Walk-ins are welcome if space allows and reservations can be made online. 45 West 27th St., New York, NY.
10. Travel Back in Time on a Holiday Nostalgia Train
Every holiday season, New Yorkers are treated to the Holiday Nostaglia Train, vintage cars that transported New York City subway riders from 1932-1977. Eight train cars each evoke a different era. Early cars are decorated with rattan seats and paddle ceiling fans. Much as they do today, advertisements line the walls inside the train cars—the difference is the ads evoke the era that the train car represents. Holiday Nostalgia Rides are made possible by the New York Transit Museum, whose goal is to celebrate NYC’s public transit history.
The Holiday Nostalgia Train operates on Sundays in December. See the schedule for a complete schedule. The cost is the same as any subway ride (currently $2.90 for a single ride).
11. Tour the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
You know that one house in the neighborhood that goes all out with the Christmas decorations?
Imagine an entire neighborhood like that, one with residents who all take their decorations as seriously as Clark Griswold. That’s what you’ll find in the Dyker Heights section of Brooklyn, and it’s an attraction that has reached the status of one of the top things to do during the Christmas season in NYC.
Residents typically begin decorating their homes the weekend after Thanksgiving, though to be sure to see the full effect, the best time to begin visiting is mid-December. Aim to visit from around dusk to 9 p.m. the hours when homeowners typically have the lights turned on.
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights have become such a popular attraction in New York in December that many companies lead tours to the neighborhood, though it’s entirely possible to take the subway and see them on your own.
Take the subway to see the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights on your own. Several homes are decked out in dazzling decorations, but for the best experience, stick to the area of 11th to 13th Avenues, from 83rd to 86th Streets. Take one of the following subways:
- R train to 86th Street Station in Brooklyn.
- D train to 79th Street Station in Brooklyn.
- Both require a 10-15 minute walk after exiting the subway.
Here is a selection of Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tours (tours do tend to sell out quickly):
Disclosure: Please note this section contains affiliate links, which means, at no additional cost to you, I may receive a commission if you make a purchase. Be assured that I only recommend products and companies I use and trust.
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
- From $57. Includes tour, guide, and round-trip transportation.
- Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour
- From $59. Includes tour, guide, and round-trip transportation.
- Dyker Heights Christmas Wonderland Bus Tour
- From $49.99. Includes guide and bus tour in Dyker Heights.
- Walking Tour at Dyker Heights
- From $21. Includes guide. Begins and ends in Brooklyn. Guests are responsible for returning from Dyker Heights on their own.
- Half-Day Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour from Manhattan
- From $59. Includes guide and bus to and from Dyker Heights.
12. Attend a Holiday Choir or Concert
Take a break from typical Christmas activities and allow yourself to be transported by concerts that usually only come around during the holidays season.
Vienna Boys Choir
Attending a concert featuring this famous international choir of young performers means you’re taking part in a tradition that’s more than 600 years old. Audience members will hear a variety of music, from Austrian folk songs to classical and popular songs to holiday favorites during this year’s Christmas in Vienna.
It all takes place at Carnegie Hall, an iconic New York concert hall with outstanding acoustics.
- Date: December 17, 2023 at 2 p.m.
- Location: Carnegie Hall-Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, 881 7th Ave., New York, NY
- Cost: Prices vary, depending on date and seat selection. Student discount tickets are available at the box office.
Harlem Gospel Choir
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are set aside for the magnificent Harlem Gospel Choir, a group that adds a bit of jazz and blues to their gospel sound. They’ve performed for presidents and popes, at the Grammy awards show, and alongside world famous musicians like Bono and Diana Ross.
- Date: December 21-27, 2023
- Location: Blue Note New York
New York Philharmonic
December concerts from this world famous symphony orchestra include Handel’s Messiah (December 12-14 and December 16, 2023) and the annual Holiday Brass concert (December 16-17, 2023).
- Location: David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center
- Cost: Prices vary depending on date and performance.
Holiday Concerts at Cathedral of St. John the Divine
The largest cathedral in the world is the setting for Christmas concerts that include The Joy of Christmas! (December 9, 2023 at 7 p.m.) and New Years Eve Concert for Peace (December 31, 2023 at 7 p.m.). The 125-year-old gothic cathedral provides the perfect ambiance for these holiday performances.
- Location: Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY
- Cost: Prices vary depending on performance.
13. Celebrate the Season at Washington Square Park
After Rockefeller Center, the second largest tree lighting ceremony in New York City takes place in Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village. The main event takes place on December 6, 2023 at 6 p.m.but if you can’t make it, don’t worry! Wander over to the park at your leisure to view the tree, which will be lit every day from 4 p.m.-1 a.m.
If you’re in town on December 17th, meet up under the park’s famous arch for Washington Square Park Unsilent Night, an annual street promenade that makes a performer out of everyone!
The promenade begins at Washington Square Park, makes its way to the East Village, and ends in Tompkins Square Park.
Here’s how Unsilent Night works:
- Prior to the event, follow these steps to download the song you’ll play on your device.
- Bring a portable speaker or other amplifying device if you have one.
- Meet at the arch at 5:45 p.m. The procession begins at 6.
- At the designated time, hit play on your downloaded song. The four songs being played throughout the crowd work together to create its own unique sound.
2023 marks the 31st year of Unsilent Night, which takes place in cities around the country.
The final holiday event in Washington Square Park takes place on Christmas Eve, when everyone is welcome to take part in an evening of Christmas Caroling, a tradition that has taken place for more than a century.
The event is sponsored by Washington Square Association (WSA), who makes song books available for download. (Donations are always appreciated but not required).
Carolers should meet under the arch on Christmas Eve at 5 p.m.
14. Be Charmed by the Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
More than 25 model trains and trolleys chug their way along a half-mile track populated with miniature replicas of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Kids and adults alike will be delighted by the locomotives twisting and turning their way past miniature versions of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Yankee Stadium, and more, all constructed out of plant-based materials like bark and leaves.
A beloved New York Christmas tradition, the NYBG Train Show takes place in the beautiful glass Haupt Conservatory and has been an annual event for more than 30 years.
The botanical garden is also the site of NYBG GLOW, an after-dark event where the landscape and buildings are decked out in holiday lights and decorations.
- Dates-Holiday Train Show: November 17, 2023-January 15, 2024
- Dates-NYBG GLOW: Select dates from November 17, 2023-January 13, 2024.
- Cost: Prices vary. Combination tickets to both events are available.
15. Follow a Dazzling Path at Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Follow a trail illuminated by more than 1 million lights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s spectacular winter event. Works of art are featured along the trail, accompanied by lighted sculptures, specially decorated trees and buildings, and festive music to guide the way.
Visitors should plan on spending about 90 minutes exploring the trail, which begins and ends at the Visitor Center.
Hot drinks and light snacks are available for purchase. Note that Lightscape takes place outside of the botanic garden’s regular operating hours. Visitors will only be allowed access to the grounds where Lightscape is taking place.
- Dates: November 17, 2023-January 1, 2024
- Location: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
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16. Set Sail on a Holiday Cruise
Disclosure: Please note this section contains affiliate links, which means, at no additional cost to you, I may receive a commission if you make a purchase. Be assured that I only recommend products and companies I use and trust.
Take a Christmas cruise, where you’ll get incomparable skyline views and sail past famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. A variety of cruises are available during the holiday season.
New York City Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise
Sail aboard a holiday themed yacht while you sing Christmas carols and sip hot cocoa, either spiked or unspiked.
- Cost: $124. Christmas cookies and one beverage is included in the price. Additional drinks available for purchase by credit card.
New York Harbor Live Holiday Jazz Cruise
Listen to the soothing sounds of live jazz as you glide past famous landmarks.
- Cost: $124. Christmas cookies, light snacks, and one beverage is included in the price. Additional drinks available for purchase by credit card.
New York City Christmas Holiday Statue & Skyline Cocoa Cruise
Cruise on a 1920s yacht past major New York attractions while listening to festive Christmas music.
- Cost: $64. One beverage is included in the price. Additional drinks available for purchase by credit card.
17. Indulge in Delicious Holiday Treats
New York in December means restaurants, cafes, and bakeries roll out their delectable seasonal treats. Take advantage of that by adding these dishes to your dining plans!
Note: Some items below are only available for a few days out of the year. Always call ahead to confirm your desired dish is available.
Latkes
Fried potato pancakes are a staple food of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. A few places to find good latkes in Manhattan are Russ & Daughters, Dagon, and Katz’s Deli.
Sufganiyot
Another Hanukkah tradition, these deep fried doughnuts are filled with jam or custard and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. In Manhattan, find them at Zabar’s, Breads Bakery, and Balaboosta.
Italian Confections
Stop at Veniero’s in Greenwich Village to satisfy your sweet tooth with biscotti, Italian butter cookies, sfogliatelle, and a slice of New York cheesecake. For even more Italian desserts, check out Artuso’s Pastry Shop in the Bronx and Villabate Alba in Brooklyn.
Yule log
The rolled up sponge cake with creamy filling, also known as bûche de Noël, is a holiday classic dessert that’s available at several bakeries in New York City. Find one during the holiday season at Balthazar Bakery and Laduree.
18. Watch the Lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah
New York celebrates Hanukkah in a big way!
See for yourself when the world’s largest menorahs are lit on each night of the Jewish Festival of Lights.
The menorahs can be found in two locations: Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn and Grand Army Plaza in Manhattan, at the southeastern corner of Central Park. The menorahs are 32 feet tall and weigh in at 4,000 pounds. In 2006, the Central Park menorah was certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest one in the world.
In 2023, the first day of Hanukkah is December 7. Check here for updates on Menorah Lighting Times.
19. Remember John Lennon at a Sing-Along Vigil
2023 marks 43 years since John Lennon was shot and killed in front of his home at the Dakota Apartment Building in New York City. On any given day of the year, fans gather and sing at the Imagine mosaic in Central Park’s Strawberry Fields, a parcel of land dedicated to Lennon’s memory.
Those sing-alongs take on greater significance (and gather greater crowds) each year on his birthday (October 9) and on December 8, the anniversary of his death. To experience this tribute, enter Central Park at 72nd Street and Central Park West.
Final Thoughts on Things to do in NYC in December
Whether you’re goal is to see an iconic holiday show or Christmas decorations in New York City, or simply to soak up the magic of the season, you’ll find lots to do in December. Have an amazing time and happy holidays!