NYC Guide · 2026
Christmas in NYC
From the Rockefeller Center tree to Bryant Park's Winter Village and the Dyker Heights light displays, Christmas in NYC is one of the world's great holiday experiences. Here's everything to do — markets, skating rinks, shows and Christmas Day openings.
We've grouped picks into holiday markets, ice skating, Christmas Day–open attractions and ticketed shows. The Rockefeller tree typically lights in late November and stays up through early January.
11 picks · Updated September 2026
#1 · New York
Top of the Rock
Observation deck atop Rockefeller Center offering panoramic views of Manhattan's skyline.
#2 · New York
Rockefeller Center
Iconic complex featuring art deco architecture, shopping, dining, and observation deck with stunning city views.
#3 · New York
Radio City Music Hall
Iconic entertainment venue known for the Radio City Rockettes and spectacular stage shows.
#4 · New York
NYC Ballet's The Nutcracker
The New York City Ballet production of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker is one of the most beloved holiday performances in New York. Staged at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, the show is known for its lavish sets, live orchestra, and famous onstage Christmas tree.
#5 · New York
New York City Ballet
New York City Ballet is renowned for its athletic style, musical precision, and expansive repertory ranging from classic works to innovative contemporary choreography. Based at Lincoln Center's David H. Koch Theater, the company is especially famous for its annual staging of The Nutcracker.
#6 · New York
Bryant Park
Bryant Park serves as Midtown's backyard, a lively green space framed by skyscrapers and anchored by the New York Public Library. The park is known for its café seating, open lawn, and constant calendar of events from summer movie nights to winter markets and ice skating.
#7 · New York
NYC Holiday Lights Tour
Festive guided tours of the city's seasonal holiday light displays with warming drinks and famous movie locations.
#8 · Brooklyn
Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Tour
A festive tour of Brooklyn's Dyker Heights Christmas light displays with stops at Bryant Park Winter Village.
#9 · New York
Half-Day Guided Bus Tour
A compact guided bus tour covering major NYC landmarks including Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park with expert commentary.
#10 · New York
Wollman Rink
A beloved seasonal ice skating destination in Central Park offering skating sessions framed by trees and the city skyline.
#11 · New York
HERO at Rockefeller Center
An immersive interactive experience celebrating heroes from sports, music, film, and pop culture with multimedia displays and photo opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is open in NYC on Christmas Day?
Many top attractions stay open: the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, Edge NYC, Statue of Liberty (limited ferries), the Metropolitan Museum and most observation decks. Broadway is dark on Christmas Day; matinees resume December 26.
When is the Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting?
The Rockefeller Center tree lighting is the Wednesday after Thanksgiving (early December). The tree stays lit daily from ~6 AM until midnight through early January.
What are the best NYC Christmas markets?
Bryant Park Winter Village (late October–early March), Union Square Holiday Market (mid-November–December 24), Columbus Circle Holiday Market and Grand Central's Holiday Fair are the big four.
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