There is no place quite like New York City at Christmas. This beautiful metropolis is one of the best places in the world to spend the holiday, due to its myriad of festive events and unparalleled joy. The whole city welcomes the holiday, with additions like stunning decor and the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. While many New York City activities—like exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife and watching the sunset—are year-round classics, the city is especially known for its holiday cheer.
Surround yourself with luxury and festivities during the Christmas holidays in New York City. Here are some of the best activities to do in New York during the Christmas holidays.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Experience the magic of Saks Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Light Show, returning on November 24, 2025. This dazzling spectacle transforms the iconic Fifth Avenue flagship into a winter wonderland, featuring vibrant lights synchronized to festive music in a breathtaking display that captures the spirit of New York at Christmas.
Catch the shows nightly from November 24 through early January, running every few minutes from around 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Each mesmerizing performance lasts about three minutes, lighting up Midtown with holiday cheer.
Keep an eye out for the official lighting ceremony in late November, a beloved NYC tradition that marks the start of the holiday season with celebrity guests and spectacular surprises.
Make it part of your holiday tradition, the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show is one of Manhattan’s most magical winter experiences, bringing sparkle and joy to the heart of Fifth Avenue.
The Nutcracker Ballet
The New York City Ballet enchants audiences every year with their productions of The Nutcracker, choreographed by American ballet legend George Balanchine. The Nutcracker is a holiday story of magical toys, a handsome prince, waltzing flowers, and childhood joy. This captivating tale has been presented by the New York City Ballet every year since 1954; it is one of the most time-honored Christmas performances ever. Performances of The Nutcracker take place at the David H. Koch Theater almost every evening from late November to the end of the year.Get your tickets here.
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
Christmas cheer takes on new meaning at Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, a themed restaurant located in midtown Manhattan. The entire restaurant is Victorian-themed, decorated with antiques and interior carvings taken from an Irish ballroom in the 1800s. The opulence of the restaurant and bar reaches new heights at Christmas, purely for its larger-than-life decorations.
Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise
Cruise by Manhattan in luxury during one of these Holiday Cruises, hosted by Classic Harbor Line. These 1920s-style yachts are straight out of The Great Gatsby, with an understated elegance reminiscent of a speakeasy. These holiday-themed boat rides, which are available throughout November and December, are decked out in lights and Christmas decorations. They also provide multiple options: you can book a private cruise, a jazz cruise, a sunset cruise, and much more.
Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular
Aside from New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, the Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular may be the best holiday performance in New York City. This annual show exhibits the Rockettes’ best precision dancing, combined with holiday scenes and music. It is sure to awe even the most jaded of viewers with its Christmas spirit. Enjoy this impressive display at any of their hundreds of shows there are up to five shows a day during the height of the holiday.
Staycation at The Marmara
Christmas is a time for gift-giving so give yourself the ultimate gift by treating yourself to a staycation at The Marmara. The hotel’s upscale Tuti Bar & Lounge is the perfect place for an unpretentious yet elegant Christmas dinner, or for ordering some room service, if you would just like to relax. Besides delectable dishes like lobster ravioli and a charcuterie platter, Tuti also serves an extensive selection of wines and other beverages. Your staycation can also include an invigorating wellness treatment at The Marmara’s spa, which offers a luxurious Turkish Hammam treatment. Feel better than ever this Christmas with a full experience of this hotel’s amenities.
Discover Things to Do in New York City for an Unforgettable Experience! If you're seeking a mesmerizing city escape, New York City is the perfect destination. With its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and dynamic culture, this city that never sleeps has something for everyone. Indulge in the diverse culinary scene, experience the vibrant nightlife, and create lasting memories. Don't miss out on the best things to do in New York City to plan your extraordinary urban adventure today!
Enjoy a New York City Christmas by day and the ultimate luxury hotel by night. Book now!
