Manhattan Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Ring in the holiday season with the beloved annual tradition of Big Band Holidays, featuring the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Under the direction of Chris Crenshaw, the orchestra brings new life to classic holiday tunes, accompanied by the dynamic vocals of Shenel Johns and Kate Kortum. This spectacular performance...

Step into a world of holiday enchantment with George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. This iconic ballet brings Tchaikovsky's magical score to life with breathtaking choreography, sumptuous costumes, and spectacular sets. Witness the famous growing Christmas tree, a blizzard of snowflakes, and a cast of over 200 performers, including children from the...

Celebrate the holiday season with the 15th Annual Christmas in New York concert. This special event features the talents of TaRanda Greene, Charles Billingsley, RamCorps, and the American Festival Choir. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a night of uplifting holiday music.

Rediscover the heartwarming holiday classic "Elf" like never before. The New York Philharmonic performs John Debney's enchanting score live to the film on the big screen. Follow Buddy the Elf's hilarious and touching journey from the North Pole to New York City in this magical cinematic and symphonic experience.

Immerse yourself in the holiday tradition with Handel's Messiah, performed by the New York Philharmonic. This classic oratorio, known for its dramatic flair and soaring vocal expressions, features a stunning cast of soloists and the acclaimed Musica Sacra choir, all under the baton of Baroque specialist Ton Koopman. Experience the...

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes. This iconic New York City celebration offers a dazzling live show filled with festive cheer. Enhance your visit with exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the legendary Radio City Music Hall, or even participate in a dance...

Step into a world of holiday magic with the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes. This iconic New York City celebration offers a dazzling performance filled with festive cheer. Beyond the show, explore the historic Radio City Music Hall on an exclusive guided tour, meet a Rockette, and discover...

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the legendary Rockettes, returns to celebrate its 100th anniversary. This iconic holiday show promises an unforgettable experience with dazzling choreography, festive music, and breathtaking stagecraft. Witness the precision and magic of the Rockettes as they bring classic Christmas tales and holiday cheer to life...

The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes returns for its 100th anniversary, promising an unforgettable holiday celebration. This iconic show features the legendary precision dance routines of the Rockettes, breathtaking choreography, and dazzling costumes. Immerse yourself in a festive wonderland with stunning visual effects, including drones and projections, all...

Experience the enchantment of the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, celebrating its 100th anniversary. This iconic holiday show promises an unforgettable journey filled with dazzling performances and cherished traditions. Perfect for families and a must-see during the festive season.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the celebrated Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli graces the stage at the iconic Madison Square Garden. His return promises a night filled with breathtaking performances and timeless melodies that have captivated audiences worldwide.

This beloved musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' returns for its 17th smash year. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge's transformative journey as he is visited by four ghosts, revealing his past, present, and future. Will he find the holiday spirit in time? Discover the magic of this heartwarming production.

Experience the magic of the holiday season with Candlelight Christmas Concerts in New York. These enchanting performances bring festive cheer to iconic venues, featuring beloved Christmas carols and classical masterpieces like "The Nutcracker." Enjoy an intimate musical journey illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight.

Embark on a journey with 'The Christmas Schooner,' a musical inspired by the true story of Chicago's first Christmas tree ship. This heartwarming production follows a brave captain who navigates treacherous winter weather to deliver trees to homesick immigrant families, turning his voyages into a cherished tradition. Featuring a powerful...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings. This enchanting concert features the Highline String Quartet performing a festive program of beloved Christmas carols, all illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holidays.

The Westchester Ballet Company presents a spectacular 75th-anniversary production of The Nutcracker. Directed and choreographed by Sabrina Gail Lobner, this full-length ballet features exquisite scenes, stunning costumes, and exciting special effects. Performed at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, it's a beloved holiday tradition for audiences of all ages.

Prepare for a magical holiday kickoff as America's favorite power-violinist, Lindsey Stirling, graces the stage with 'The Snow Waltz Tour.' Experience her signature blend of virtuosic violin performance, captivating dance, and dazzling spectacle. Stirling will ring in the season with beloved songs from her Christmas album, 'Snow Waltz,' promising a...

Step back in time to experience Charles Dickens' beloved tale, 'A Christmas Carol,' as performed by Michael Muldoon, embodying Dickens himself. This captivating one-hour show, set within the beautifully decorated art gallery of Lyndhurst Mansion, brings Ebenezer Scrooge and his iconic journey to life. It's a chance to witness a...

Awaken your holiday spirit with a joyous concert by Collective Brass at the historic Lyndhurst Mansion. They will perform seasonal favorites, including selections from The Nutcracker, new arrangements of ancient carols, and a rousing rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus. This festive event is perfect for the whole family and promises...

For 30 years, Rob Mathes has kicked off the holiday season with a spectacular concert. This high-energy event features Mathes, his all-star band, and a chorus, delivering a unique blend of rock, jazz, and blues with fresh takes on holiday classics and original compositions. It's a cherished local tradition that...

Step into Santa's Secret, a hidden speakeasy experience where holiday cheer meets playful mischief. This immersive event features 8 dazzling holiday installations, a live band setting a festive mood, and a captivating variety show with cabaret and burlesque acts. Sip on expertly crafted Christmas cocktails and prepare for a night...

Experience the magic of live music at the iconic Tavern on the Green this holiday season. Enjoy performances by talented artists every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, creating a festive and memorable atmosphere. This historic Central Park gem offers an elegant American menu and a robust wine list, perfect for a...

Elevate your holiday celebration with Santa's Breakfast Spectacular, an exclusive New York experience at Radio City Music Hall. Enjoy a festive breakfast and open bar in the historic Roxy Suite before meeting Santa Claus for photos. Afterward, be escorted to premium seats for the dazzling Christmas Spectacular, featuring the iconic...

Experience the magic of the holidays at Rockefeller Center with a private Après Skate Chalet. This exclusive rental offers a cozy 40-minute escape for up to six guests, complete with digital photos and stunning views. Enjoy delicious food and drinks available for purchase, and take advantage of included Top of...

Experience the warmth of community at Goddard Riverside's Holiday Meals. This cherished tradition offers festive Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, served both in their dining room and delivered to neighbors in need. Join them in celebrating the season of giving and togetherness.

Celebrate Christmas Day with an unforgettable brunch cruise on the Hudson and East Rivers. Indulge in a chef-prepared buffet with festive holiday specials, complemented by bottomless mimosas and a lively DJ. Enjoy breathtaking views of the New York City skyline, including iconic landmarks, from the comfort of a climate-controlled yacht.

Hoboken ignites with an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration, offering an All Access Party Pass for exclusive entry to the city's hottest events. This pass grants access to multiple venues, including The Ainsworth and The Lola, featuring open bars, live DJ performances, and a midnight toast. Prepare for a night...

Step back in time to the glamorous 1920s at Planting Fields for an enchanting evening. The Main House will be artfully decorated for the season, creating a magical atmosphere. Guests can enjoy festive cocktails and exquisite hors d'oeuvres while celebrating the holiday spirit and supporting the Planting Fields Foundation.

Ring in the New Year at New Jersey's premier hotel parties, offering an unforgettable night of celebration. Guests can expect a 5-hour premium open bar, a lavish cocktail hour, and a delicious 3-course dinner. Live entertainment from top bands like Daddy Pop and Audio Riot will keep the energy high,...

Embark on a magical 50-minute carriage ride through Central Park and along the dazzling Fifth Avenue. Witness the most beautifully illuminated shops in NYC, including iconic displays from Cartier, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany's. The highlight is a stop at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a breathtaking spectacle of lights and...

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a quintessential New York holiday tradition. Witness the spectacular illumination of the 75-foot Norway Spruce, adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and a dazzling Swarovski star. The tree, arriving from East Greenbush, New York, will be a beacon of festive cheer throughout...

Immerse yourself in the enchanting holiday spirit of New York City by exploring its world-renowned Christmas window displays. From the avant-garde designs of Bergdorf Goodman to the festive storytelling at Macy's and the dazzling light show at Saks Fifth Avenue, these displays transform the city into a winter wonderland. Don't...

Experience the magic of Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, a dazzling winter trail transformed into an enchanted forest. This immersive holiday event features stunning light installations, luminous sculptures, and captivating music, highlighting the Garden's beauty in a new light. Enjoy festive food and drinks, making it NYC's newest holiday...

Step into a world of miniature marvels at the Holiday Train Show, NYC's beloved winter tradition. Model trains chug past nearly 200 iconic landmarks, each intricately crafted from natural plant materials. Discover new surprises for the 2025/2026 season, including a replica of the Delacorte Theater, set within the warm Enid...

Embark on a magical journey through the enchanting Christmas experiences at Bayville Winter Wonderland! Explore the top Christmas attractions on Long Island, where the spirit of the season takes a thrilling and festive twist. Unwrap the wonders of the Best Christmas Wonderland on Long Island, NY, as you immerse yourself...

Experience the magic of Westchester's Winter Wonderland, a spectacular drive-thru holiday light extravaganza. Journey through 1.2 miles of dazzling lights from your car, enhanced by the free Otocast app that plays festive music and stories. It's an affordable and memorable way for the whole family to celebrate the holiday season...

Embark on a magical journey through the Magic of Lights, a spectacular drive-through holiday spectacle at the PNC Bank Arts Center. This dazzling experience showcases beloved holiday scenes and characters brought to life with cutting-edge LED technology and vibrant digital animations. From the comfort of your vehicle, wind through a...

Experience the magic of the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, a cherished New York City tradition. This vibrant market brings together over 100 artisans and designers, offering a dazzling array of unique gifts, from handmade jewelry and art to home goods. Indulge in a global culinary journey with festive food options...

Experience the quintessential New York City holiday season at The Plaza Hotel, where Central Park meets Fifth Avenue. Indulge in festive dining, including special holiday teas and private dining options. Shop for unique gifts at The Plaza Boutique or online, and immerse yourself in the hotel's spectacular seasonal decorations. Don't...

Experience the magic of the holidays on Fifth Avenue and around Rockefeller Center with expanded car-free Open Streets. This popular program returns with even more pedestrian space, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, admire iconic window displays, and enjoy live entertainment on select Sundays. It's a...

Experience a vibrant holiday celebration at NYSoM HolidayMania 2024! This free event offers a festive journey through multiple winter holidays, featuring a special gift giveaway, engaging activities in Hanukkah Town and Kwanzaa Village, and a Winter Wonderland with beloved characters. It's a perfect way to spread holiday cheer for all...

Discover the highly anticipated Heights Holiday Market, returning to Riverview Park for its fourth year. This premier Jersey City event features over 150 vendors offering unique gifts and artisanal products. Indulge in a festive food court with seasonal drinks and treats, and enjoy complimentary family photos with Santa Claus. Live...

Discover a treasure trove of unique finds at Brooklyn Flea's holiday market. Browse a curated selection of vintage items, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods from over 100 vendors. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Discover the charm of the Danish Christmas Fair, a beloved annual event offering a delightful taste of Scandinavian holiday traditions. Browse unique Scandinavian designs, cozy knitwear, festive ornaments, and sweet Danish candies. Savor traditional treats like 'æbleskiver' and warm glögg in the church's inviting backyard. It's the perfect place to...

Experience the enchanting beauty of Central Park from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage. This classic ride offers a unique perspective on iconic landmarks like Bethesda Fountain and Belvedere Castle. For an extended holiday experience, choose the 'Park & City Ride' to also witness the dazzling 5th Avenue holiday lights...

Experience the magic of the holiday season in New York City with the 15th Annual Christmas in New York tour. This 5-day, 4-night event features a major concert at Carnegie Hall and worship at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. Explore iconic landmarks like Times Square and Central Park, enjoy a harbor cruise,...

Discover the creativity of artists and artisans at the 43rd Annual Wreath Interpretations Exhibition. This unique event showcases over 30 imaginative and unconventional wreaths, each a testament to artistic ingenuity and unexpected materials. From plastic rollers to faux fireworks, these handcrafted decorations offer a fresh perspective on holiday traditions. Attend...

Step into a world of holiday magic at Tiffany & Co.'s iconic New York City flagship store. Their legendary windows, a tradition since 1837, come alive each November with fantastical displays. Inspired by the allure captured in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' these artistic creations blend sculpture, lighting, and pure fantasy, drawing...

Join in a beloved Christmas Eve tradition with A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This service beautifully weaves together scripture readings with classic carols and hymns, performed by the acclaimed Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys. Experience the solemn procession and the symbolic lighting of the first candle,...

Experience the iconic New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square, the symbolic center of New York City. Witness the legendary Ball Drop, add your wishes to the confetti, and enjoy live entertainment. This global tradition unites millions in a joyous farewell to the past year and a hopeful embrace of...

Embark on a magical Christmas morning tour through Midtown Manhattan, showcasing iconic holiday sights like Rockefeller Center and dazzling 5th Avenue window displays. The experience culminates with exclusive early access and a reserved table at the renowned Papillon Christmas Restaurant, offering an optional curated holiday lunch.

Step into a cherished holiday tradition at The Metropolitan Museum of Art with the stunning Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche. A magnificent twenty-foot blue spruce, adorned with lights, stands tall, overlooking an incredibly detailed 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene. This vibrant display features lifelike figures and silk-robed angels, set against...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with 'Christmas in Venice,' an event offering a festive escape. While specific details are still emerging, this event promises a delightful experience for all. Keep an eye out for updates on this enchanting holiday gathering.

Celebrate the season at Liberty Science Center's Holiday Adventure! Enjoy a festive LSC Winter Train Ride, try "Sock Skating" on a synthetic ice rink, and dance at the Holiday Dance Party. Special live science shows and captivating winter animal presentations, including penguins and birds of prey, are also featured. Enhance...

Discover the magic of the holiday season with 'A Very Merry New York Family Holiday Guide.' This comprehensive resource covers Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa events across NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and Staten Island. Find festive shows, tree lightings, dazzling light displays, unique holiday markets, and opportunities to meet Santa. Plan...

Discover Newark's ultimate winter experience at the Newark Winter Village. This stylish open-air festival offers ice skating, thrilling go-kart races on an icy rink, and a marketplace featuring local businesses. Cozy up in private igloos or pods with delicious food and hot beverages while enjoying beautiful views of downtown Newark.

Embark on a magical journey aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, bringing the beloved holiday classic to life. Families will be whisked away on a festive train adventure to meet Santa Claus. Enjoy hot chocolate and treats served by dancing chefs while listening to the classic story read aloud. Each...

Get ready to jingle all the way at the Jingle Bell Run, a festive 5K race for charity supporting the Arthritis Foundation. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday gear while running or walking to help spread joy and make strides toward a cure. This event celebrates four decades...