New York Christmas

Our favorite holiday is Christmas, and we absolutely love finding festive things to do when that time of year arrives! We love watching Christmas movies (and honestly, we start in November so we can fully get into the Christmas spirit — as everyone should). We also love baking Christmas cookies, having hot cocoa, and making gingerbread houses.
Everything about Christmas is magical but,

Christmas in New York is truly one of the most magical experiences in the world.

Just imagine it: it’s cold outside, and you’re in one of the most amazing cities in the world — New York City. The streets are decorated with Christmas lights, gigantic trees, and ornaments. There are candy canes and wreaths everywhere, people are shopping for Christmas presents, and you can feel the holiday spirit shining through every single person you see. Joy and happiness fill the air.

Things To Do:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

This is always a must. The most iconic Christmas tree in the world — and truthfully, there’s a reason why. The lights, the colors, the ice skating rink right underneath, the illuminated buildings surrounding it, the decorated streets, and families in their winter outfits taking pictures all come together to create a truly magical experience.

Christmas Light Shows

Christmas light shows in NYC are absolutely worth planning around:

• Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show — free, live, every 10 minutes, right across from Rockefeller Center.

• LuminoCity Festival (Randalls Island) — ticketed and immersive.

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden Light Show — ticketed and beautifully done.

Each one offers a different way to experience the city’s holiday magic.

Bonus tip: People in Brooklyn decorate their houses and apartments beautifully with Christmas lights and you can also find hot cocoa food truck vendors on the streets and walk around the neighborhoods !

Central Park Winter Wonderland

When winter arrives and brings snow with it, Central Park transforms into the most beautiful winter wonderland. The views of the city buildings in the distance while the trees and ground are covered in snow create a core memory you’ll keep forever.
Even if there’s no snow, Central Park is still a must-visit during winter. The lake freezes, the views remain stunning, there are fewer people around, and that nostalgic feeling hits exactly where it’s supposed to.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

We think the Statue of Liberty is a must no matter the time of year, but winter is especially special. Fewer people visit during this season, which means you can explore both Liberty Island and Ellis Island with far fewer crowds. It’s peaceful, reflective, and incredibly meaningful.

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

Why? Because going to a rooftop in NYC is an experience — and this one is one of our favorites. You get the Empire State Building right in front of you, plus almost a 360° view depending on where you sit or walk. They decorate for Christmas, and the heated igloos are super cute. If you drink, the prices aren’t as crazy as other rooftops, and if you don’t, they offer hot cocoa, sodas, and more.
Pro tip: go during sunset and stay until the Empire State Building lights up — it’s truly stunning.

Picture Perfect at The Plaza Hotel

The Plaza Hotel truly puts on a show during Christmas. Their decorations and Christmas tree are breathtaking. Whether you’re stopping by to admire the décor or using it as a backdrop for holiday photos, it’s one of the most charming and heartwarming spots in the city.

Macy’s Herald Square

Yes — Macy’s. During Christmas, the store transforms into a holiday wonderland. The window displays alone are worth the visit, featuring dancing animatronics, scenes inspired by classic Christmas stories, and interactive elements.

Inside, it genuinely feels like stepping into Christmas itself. Grab a hot cocoa and wander through the floors to enjoy all the creativity.

Bryant Park Winter Village

This is our favorite Christmas market in the city. Bryant Park offers food trucks, small makers, crafters, and unique holiday shopping perfect for special gifts. There are tents with seasonal drinks, including hot chocolate (and alcoholic options if you drink).

Our favorite treat here is roasted marshmallows from S’MORES N’MORE NYC — a must on a cold winter day.

Dominique Ansel Bakery

If you visit during Christmas, don’t miss their adorable hot cocoa, where the marshmallow flower blooms. It’s not only cute — it’s some of the best hot cocoa and cronuts you’ll ever have.

Final Thoughts: Is Christmas in NYC Worth It?

Without a doubt — yes.

Christmas in New York is more than decorations and lights. It’s about the feeling of walking through the city bundled up, holding a warm drink, listening to music echo through the streets, and sharing moments that feel timeless.

If you’ve ever dreamed of spending Christmas in New York, let this be your sign to do it. It’s magical in ways words can only begin to describe.