The Big Apple is a popular pre-Christmas destination, partially thanks to its starring role in numerous seasonal films including Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, and When Harry Met Sally, as well as being the shopping capital of the world! From Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade onwards, New York comes alive with the all the magic of Christmas.
In addition to all of the famous sights and attractions you’ll want to see, like Lady Liberty, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge, here are some special seasonal events you should think about scheduling into your Christmas trip in 2018:
Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony
28th November
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While you’re there, be sure to visit the Top of the Rock for fabulous views of the sparkling city and the Empire State Building.
Central Park’s Holiday Market
28th November to 24th December
With over 150 vendors at Central Park West and 59th Street, you’ll be sure to find some fantastic Christmas gifts for your loved ones. While in the park, head over to the Wollman Rink on the east side for ice skating at this popular outdoor venue. Weather depending, look out for other gems hiding in the park, such as the Alice in Wonderland and Hans Christian Andersen monuments, the Bethesda Fountain, the Carousel, and the Central Park Zoo.
Grand Central Terminal’s Holiday Fair
1st December to 24th December
Image Credit: Metropolitan Transportation Authority of the State of New York's
A visit to New York wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the station’s iconic concourse with its elaborately decorated astronomical ceiling, designed in 1912 and restored in 1996. The Dining Concourse, below the Main Concourse, offers a wealth of restaurants to choose from, including the station’s oldest business, the Oyster Bar. It’s also worth passing through the Grand Central Market, off Lexington Avenue, on your way through to the Vanderbilt Hall for the Holiday Fair, where 40 vendors exhibit their American-made and handmade products created with locally-sourced materials and socially-conscious business models.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at David H. Koch Theatre
23rd November to 30th December
For holiday tradition, intricate costumes, beautiful choreography by New York City Ballet, and Tchaikovsky’s captivating music, book your tickets now to view this festive production.
Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall
9th November to 1st January
Image Credit: Stacey Huggins
Get in the Christmas spirit with this all-singing, all-dancing festive show, with fireworks and a flying Santa! You’ll also have the chance to meet a Rockette or Santa before the show starts.
SantaCon NYC, various venues
8th December, 10am to 8pm
Wear a Santa suit, donate to charity, and see a lot of bars and venues in the Big Apple! The venues will be announced a few days before the celebration, with the starting point being released the evening before.
Christmas Eve Caroling at Washington Square Park
24th December, 5pm to 6pm
The Rob Susman Brass Quartet and revelers will sing familiar festive tunes near the Square’s arch. Join in with this traditional caroling event! If you’re in the city earlier in December, the Tree Lighting Ceremony in this Park takes place at 6pm on Wednesday 5th December, with a visit from Santa Claus himself.
The holiday season is rounded off perfectly with New Year’s Eve in Times Square, with its world-famous crystal ball drop, music extravaganza, and fireworks.
Title Image Credit: Sam valadi (Image Cropped)