There is no place like New York City for the Holidays! Enjoy endless amounts of activities with family and friends this holiday season in NYC. From holiday performances, ice skating, holiday light experiences and holiday pop-up shops, New York City during the holidays will have you feeling merry and bright.
If you’re planning a holiday getaway in 2025 to New York City, you couldn’t have picked a better time. With brand-new pop-ups, breathtaking light displays, and the beloved traditions that make the season unforgettable. Whether you’re visiting with family, escaping for a romantic weekend, or exploring the city’s sparkle with friends, this is your insider’s guide to making the most of the magic—right from the heart of New York City.
The Classics
Start your holiday season with one of New York’s most iconic traditions — head to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This year’s 75-foot Norway spruce from East Greenbush will shimmer under more than 50,000 multicolored LED lights, topped with a Swarovski crystal star that sparkles above Midtown until January. There’s no better way to feel the city’s energy than standing under the glow of this world-famous tree.
Afterward, take a stroll down Fifth Avenue between 45th and 60th Streets to experience the most dazzling holiday window displays and building façades in the country. From Saks Fifth Avenue’s light show to Cartier’s iconic bow-wrapped mansion, the stretch transforms into a living holiday postcard — perfect for photos, window shopping, and soaking in the magic.
It wouldn’t be the holidays in New York without a little showtime sparkle. No holiday New York City visit feels complete without seeing The Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes. The Rockettes transform the iconic Radio City Music Hall into a winter wonderland, featuring more than 140 performers, an original musical score, and classic scenes. This year’s show is extra special since the Rockettes are celebrating their 100-year anniversary. Running from November 11, 2025 through January 5, 2026, it’s a must-see experience for all ages.
Winter Villages & Holiday Markets
Nothing says “holiday in New York” quite like skating under skyscrapers. The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park opened October 24, 2025, with a free-admission rink (just rent your skates) – surrounded by holiday shops that offer everything from artisan candles to handmade scarves. The holiday shops feature over 150 local vendors selling everything from clothing to food and all sorts of fun and unique holiday gifts in between (October 25, 2025 – March 1, 2026).
Nearby, the Union Square Holiday Market keeps the festive energy going. With over 150 unique vendors, you’ll find mulled wine, handmade ornaments, and local art — perfect for last-minute gifts that feel thoughtful Market (November 13 – December 24, 2025).
Shop for everyone on your list at the Grand Central Holiday Fair, one of the longest running indoor holiday fairs in NYC, showcasing over 40 local-artisan vendors and one-of a kind products (November 10 – December 24, 2025).
Take a trip to the North Pole at Macy’s Herald Square Santaland, that brings Santa’s world to life with dazzling decorations, immersive displays, twinkling lights, and cheerful elves – and don’t forget to take your photo with Santa Claus all at the Macy’s flagship store (November 28 – December 24, 2025).
Holiday Exhibits & Seasonal Culture
For a festive experience with a creative twist, visit the Museum of the City of New York’s annual Gingerbread NYC exhibit. This delightful showcase features intricate gingerbread creations inspired by iconic New York City architecture, crafted by local bakers, designers, and architects. It’s a sweet celebration of the city’s skyline and holiday spirit—and a perfect outing for all ages during the winter season.
If you’re craving even more sparkle, make your way to the iconic Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in Brooklyn, where residents turn their homes into a full-blown Christmas spectacle. Picture 20-foot toy soldiers, glowing reindeer, and enough twinkling lights to guide Santa’s sleigh himself. It’s pure, over-the-top joy — and an NYC holiday must-see.
Step into a world of wonder at Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where the night comes alive in a million lights. This after-dark spectacular transforms the gardens into an immersive trail of glowing art installations by local and international artists (November 17, 2025 – January 5, 2026).
Winter Experiences & Festive Fun
With New York City as your winter playground and continue on your cold-weather adventure by lacing up your skates at Wollman Rink in Central Park, one of the city’s most iconic winter destinations. Open from October 2025 through March 2026, this open-air rink offers postcard-perfect views of the Manhattan skyline and a serene setting of the trees in the middle of the park.
Down by the waterfront, Watermark Winter Wonderland at Pier 15 transforms the East River into a snow-globe escape. From heated glass igloos and festive cocktails to holiday music and skyline views, this seasonal pop-up combines the charm of an alpine lodge with the energy of downtown Manhattan (November 7 – December 30, 2025).
Season-Specific Guides to New York
Discover year-round activities in the City That Never Sleeps.
