Things To Do In New York In December 2024

If you plan to be in New York City in December 2024, you’re in for a treat. The city is transformed into a magical winter wonderland, with festive decorations, holiday markets, and plenty of special events and activities. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, romantic getaways, or a chance to experience the city’s unique holiday traditions, here’s a guide to the best things to do in New York in December 2024.

As always, New York City is a vibrant and exciting place to visit in December. There are endless possibilities for things to see and do. No matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

From ice skating rinks and holiday markets to festive light displays and cultural performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in New York City in December. So bundle up and experience the magic of the season in the Big Apple.

New York City in December offers a magical winter wonderland with festive decorations, holiday markets, and special events.

Ice skating rinks
Holiday markets
Festive light displays
Cultural performances
Christmas tree lightings
Holiday window displays
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Restaurant holiday menus
Seasonal shows and concerts

With so much to see and do, New York City in December is the perfect place to experience the magic of the holiday season.

Ice skating rinks

Glide through a winter wonderland at one of New York City’s many ice skating rinks. Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Central Park all offer iconic skating experiences, with stunning views of the city skyline and festive decorations. Other popular rinks include Wollman Rink in Central Park, the Rink at Brookfield Place, and Pier 17 at the Seaport District.

Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, there’s a rink for everyone in New York City. Most rinks offer skate rentals and lessons, so you can hit the ice with confidence. And after your skate, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants.

Ice skating is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the beauty of New York City in the winter. So lace up your skates and experience the magic of the season on the ice.

Here are some additional details about ice skating rinks in New York City in December 2024:

Rockefeller Center: The rink at Rockefeller Center is one of the most iconic in the world. It’s open from October to April and offers stunning views of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
Bryant Park: The rink at Bryant Park is another popular choice, located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. It’s open from October to March and offers free admission.
Central Park: Wollman Rink in Central Park is a classic New York City skating experience. It’s open from October to April and offers skate rentals and lessons.
The Rink at Brookfield Place: This rink is located in the Brookfield Place complex in Lower Manhattan. It’s open from October to March and offers stunning views of the Hudson River.
Pier 17 at the Seaport District: This rink is located on Pier 17 in the Seaport District. It’s open from October to April and offers views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty.

No matter which rink you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable ice skating experience in New York City in December 2024.

Holiday markets

New York City’s holiday markets are a feast for the senses, with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air. From traditional European-style markets to modern craft fairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Some of the most popular holiday markets in New York City include:

The Holiday Market at Bryant Park: This market features over 170 vendors selling a variety of gifts, from handmade ornaments to gourmet food. It’s open from October to January and is located in Bryant Park, behind the New York Public Library.
The Union Square Holiday Market: This market features over 100 vendors selling a mix of art, crafts, jewelry, and food. It’s open from November to December and is located in Union Square Park.
The Grand Bazaar Holiday Market: This market features over 300 vendors selling a variety of unique gifts, from vintage clothing to home goods. It’s open from November to December and is located at Columbus Circle.
The Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market: This market features over 100 vendors selling a variety of vintage clothing, furniture, and art. It’s open from November to December and is located at the Brooklyn Expo Center.
The Chelsea Market Holiday Market: This market features over 30 vendors selling a variety of food, gifts, and crafts. It’s open from November to December and is located at Chelsea Market.

No matter which market you choose to visit, you’re sure to find something special to take home with you. And with so many delicious food options available, you can easily make a day of it.

So bundle up and head to one of New York City’s many holiday markets this December. You’re sure to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones and get into the holiday spirit.

Festive light displays

New York City is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive light displays illuminating every corner of the city. From the towering Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center to the menorah in Grand Army Plaza, there’s no shortage of dazzling displays to enjoy.

Some of the most popular festive light displays in New York City include:

The Christmas lights in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn: This neighborhood is known for its over-the-top Christmas decorations, including elaborate light displays, giant inflatable Santas, and singing reindeer.
The Winter Lantern Festival at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, Staten Island: This festival features over 1,000 illuminated lanterns, creating a magical winter wonderland.
The GLOW Holiday Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden: This festival features over a million lights illuminating the garden’s trees, shrubs, and flowers.
The Luminaries at the New York Botanical Garden: This display features over 2,000 glowing orbs that transform the garden into a winter wonderland.
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden: This annual display features model trains running through a miniature winter landscape.

No matter where you go in New York City during the holiday season, you’re sure to find a festive light display to enjoy. So bundle up and take a stroll through the city streets, parks, and gardens to experience the magic of the season.

And don’t forget to take your camera to capture all the beautiful sights.

Cultural performances

New York City is a cultural melting pot, and the holiday season is a time when the city’s diverse communities come together to celebrate their unique traditions.

The New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker: This classic holiday ballet is a must-see for any New Yorker. The performance features beautiful sets and costumes, and the dancing is simply breathtaking.
The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall: This iconic holiday show features the Rockettes, a precision dance troupe, performing a variety of Christmas-themed routines. The show is full of glitz and glamour, and it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
The Kwanzaa Celebration at the Apollo Theater: This annual celebration features music, dance, and storytelling, all celebrating the African-American holiday of Kwanzaa. It’s a great way to learn about this important holiday and enjoy some talented performers.
The Chinese New Year Parade in Chinatown: This parade is one of the largest and most colorful in the world. It features floats, dancers, and performers from all over the world. It’s a great way to celebrate the Chinese New Year and experience the vibrant culture of Chinatown.
The Hanukkah Festival of Lights at Grand Army Plaza: This festival features a giant menorah, live music, and traditional Hanukkah food. It’s a great way to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and learn about its traditions.

These are just a few of the many cultural performances that you can enjoy in New York City in December 2024. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.

igration Christmas tree lightings

One of the most beloved holiday traditions in New York City is the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center. This towering tree is the centerpiece of the Rockefeller Center Christmas display, and its lighting ceremony is a major event that attracts thousands of people each year. The tree is typically lit the Wednesday before American Thanks giving Day, and it remains lit until early January.

Another popular Christmas tree lighting ceremony takes place at Bryant Park. This tree is also massive, and its lighting ceremony is a festive event that includes live music, performances, and a visit from Santa Claus. The Bryant Park tree is typically lit the day after the Rockefeller Center tree.

In addition to these two major tree lightings, there are many other Christmas tree lightings that take place throughout New York City in December. Many neighborhoods have their own tree lighting ceremonies, and some businesses and organizations also host tree lightings. So no matter where you are in New York City, you’re sure to find a Christmas tree lighting ceremony to enjoy.

Attending a Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and experience the magic of the season. So bundle up and head to one of New York City’s many tree lightings this December.

You’re sure to have a festive and Vaccination unforgettable experience.

Holiday window displays

One of the most popular holiday traditions in New York City is admiring the festive window displays that adorn the city’s department stores and businesses. These displays are works of art, and they attract thousands of visitors each year.

Saks Fifth Avenue: Saks Fifth Avenue is known for its over-the-top holiday window displays. This year’s theme is “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” and the windows will feature elaborate scenes from the classic carol.
Bergdorf Goodman: Bergdorf Goodman’s holiday windows are always a must-see. This year’s theme is “The Land of Sweets,” and the windows will feature whimsical scenes of candy canes, gingerbread houses, and sugarplums.
Macy’s: Macy’s is another department store that is known for its impressive holiday window displays. This year’s theme is “Believe,” and the windows will feature scenes from classic holiday movies and stories.
Lord & Taylor: Lord & Taylor’s holiday windows are always elegant and sophisticated. This year’s theme is “The Magic of the Holidays,” and the windows will feature scenes of winter wonderlands and sparkling Christmas trees.
Tiffany & Co.: Tiffany & Co.’s holiday windows are always a sight to behold. This year’s theme is “The Gift of Love,” and the windows will feature sparkling diamonds and other precious jewels.

These are just a few of the many holiday window displays that you can enjoy in New York City in December 2024. So bundle up and take a stroll down Fifth Avenue or another shopping district to admire these festive works of art.

New Year’s Eve celebrations

New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate, and New York City is one of the best places in the world to ring in the new year. There are endless possibilities for things to do on New Year’s Eve in New York City, from attending a party to watching the fireworks over the Hudson River.

One of the most popular New Year’s Eve events in New York City is the Times Square Ball Drop. This iconic event attracts over a million people each year, and it’s a great way to experience the excitement of New Year’s Eve in the heart of New York City. If you’re planning to attend the Ball Drop, be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.

If you’re looking for a more low-key way to celebrate New Year’s Eve, there are plenty of other options available. You could attend a party at a bar or restaurant, or you could simply stay home and watch the fireworks on TV. No matter how you choose to celebrate, you’re sure to have a memorable New Year’s Eve in New York City.

Here are some additional details about New Year’s Eve celebrations in New Year’s Eve 2024:

The Times Square Ball Drop: This iconic event begins at 6:00 PM on New Year’s Eve, and the ball drops at midnight. The event is free to attend, but it’s important to arrive early to get a good spot.
Fireworks over the Hudson River: At midnight on New Year’s Eve, there is a spectacular fireworks display over the Hudson River. The fireworks can be viewed from many locations along the river, including Battery Park and the Brooklyn Bridge.
New Year’s Eve parties: There are countless New Year’s Eve parties happening all over New York City. You can find parties at bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and even on boats.
New Year’s Eve cruises: If you want to see the fireworks from a unique perspective, you can take a New Year’s Eve cruise. There are many different cruise options available, so you can find one that fits your budget and interests.
New Year’s Eve dinner: Many restaurants in New York City offer special New Year’s Eve menus. You can find everything from prix-fixe menus to buffets to family-style meals.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, you’re sure to have a memorable New Year’s Eve in New York City 2024.

Restaurant holiday menus

The holiday season is a time for feasting, and New York City’s restaurants are no exception. Many restaurants offer special holiday menus during December, featuring festive dishes and seasonal ingredients.

Some of the most popular holiday menu items include:

Roasted turkey with all the trimmings: This classic holiday dish is a favorite for a reason. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a special occasion.
Prime rib: Another popular holiday choice, prime rib is a succulent and flavorful cut of beef that’s perfect for a special occasion.
Lobster: Lobster is a luxurious and festive seafood choice that’s perfect for a holiday meal.
Ham: Ham is a traditional holiday dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Scallops: Scallops are a delicious and elegant seafood choice that’s perfect for a holiday meal.
Oysters Rockefeller: Oysters Rockefeller is a classic holiday appetizer that’s always a hit.
Butternut squash soup: Butternut squash soup is a warm and comforting soup that’s perfect for a holiday meal.
Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish that’s perfect for a holiday meal.
Green bean casserole: Green bean casserole is a classic holiday side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Sweet potato pie: Sweet potato pie is a delicious and festive dessert that’s perfect for a holiday meal.
Pumpkin pie: Pumpkin pie is another classic holiday dessert that’s always a hit.
Eggnog: Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink that’s always a hit at parties.
Mulled wine: Mulled wine is a warm and festive drink that’s perfect for a holiday party.

These are just a few of the many delicious holiday menu items that you can enjoy at New York City restaurants in December 2024. So be sure to make a reservation at your favorite restaurant and enjoy a festive holiday meal.

Seasonal shows and concerts

New York City is known for its vibrant arts scene, and the holiday season is no exception. There are countless seasonal shows and concerts taking place all over the city in December 2024, so you’re sure to find something to enjoy.

Some of the most popular seasonal shows and concerts include:

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular: This iconic holiday show features the Rockettes, a precision dance troupe, performing a variety of Christmas-themed routines. The show is full of glitz and glamour, and it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
The New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker: This classic holiday ballet is a must-see for any New Yorker. The performance features beautiful sets and costumes, and the dancing is simply breathtaking.
The Metropolitan Opera’s Hansel and Gretel: This enchanting opera is a perfect way to experience the holiday season. The performance features beautiful music and stunning visuals.
The New York Philharmonic’s Holiday Concerts: The New York Philharmonic offers a variety of holiday concerts throughout the month of December. These concerts feature a mix of classical and popular holiday music.
The Brooklyn Tabernacle’s Christmas Spectacular: This annual Christmas concert features a choir of over 300 voices singing a variety of Christmas carols and hymns.

These are just a few of the many seasonal shows and concerts that you can enjoy in New York City in December 2024. So be sure to check out the listings and find something that interests you.

With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in New York City.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about things to do in New York City in December 2024:

Question 1: What are some of the most popular holiday events in New York City?

Answer 1: Some of the most popular holiday events in New York City include the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, the New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, and the Brooklyn Tabernacle’s Christmas Spectacular.

Question 2: Where can I see the best holiday lights displays in New York City?

Answer 2: Some of the best holiday lights displays in New York City can be found at Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, the Winter Lantern Festival at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in Staten Island, the GLOW Holiday Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and the Luminaries at the New York Botanical Garden.

Question 3: What are some of the best places to go ice skating in New York City?

Answer 3: Some of the best places to go ice skating in New York City include Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, Central Park, the Rink at Brookfield Place, and Pier 17 at the Seaport District.

Question 4: Where can I find the best holiday markets in New York City?

Answer 4: Some of the best holiday markets in New York City include the Holiday Market at Bryant Park, the Union Square Holiday Market, the Grand Bazaar Holiday Market, the Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market, and the Chelsea Market Holiday Market.

Question 5: What are some of the best seasonal shows and concerts to see in New York City in December?

Answer 5: Some of the best seasonal shows and concerts to see in New York City in December include The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, The New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, The Metropolitan Opera’s Hansel and Gretel, The New York Philharmonic’s Holiday Concerts, and The Brooklyn Tabernacle’s Christmas Spectacular.

Question 6: Where can I find the best restaurant holiday menus in New York City?

Answer 6: Some of the best restaurant holiday menus in New York City can be found at Eleven Madison Park, Jean-Georges, Daniel, The Modern, and Per Se.

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These are just a few of the many things you can do in New York City in December 2024. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable holiday season.

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to New York City in December 2024:

Tips

Here are some tips for planning your trip to New York City in December 2024:

Tip 1: Book your accommodations early.

New York City is a popular tourist destination, especially during the holiday season. To get the best selection of hotels and prices, book your accommodations early.

Tip 2: Purchase a CityPASS.

A CityPASS gives you discounted admission to some of New York City’s most popular attractions, including the Empire State Building, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, a CityPASS can save you money.

Tip 3: Dress warmly.

The weather in New York City in December can be cold, so be sure to dress warmly. Wear layers so you can adjust to the temperature as needed.

Tip 4: Be prepared for crowds.

New York City is a crowded city, especially during the holiday season. Be prepared for crowds when you’re out and about. If you’re traveling with children, keep a close eye on them.

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By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to New York City in December 2024.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Conclusion

New York City is a magical place to visit during the holiday season. With its festive decorations, twinkling lights, and endless activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the best things to do in New York City in December 2024. From ice skating rinks and holiday markets to festive light displays and cultural performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So whether you’re a local New Yorker or just visiting for the holidays, be sure to check out some of the events and activities listed in this article. You’re sure to have a memorable holiday season in the Big Apple.

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We hope this article has helped you plan your trip to New York City in December 2024. For more information, be sure to visit the official website of the New York City Department of Tourism.