Christmas 2024 Events and Things to Do in NYC

Christmas events and things to do in NYC begin popping up around mid November; check back here closer to winter for a full listing.

Cirque Mechanics delighted audiences last year with its pageant-powered performance Zephyr and now brings its holiday edition of this pageant-powered performance to New York City. Watch as high-flying acrobats transform a factory backdrop in this fun family show.

Radio City Hall

Radio City Christmas Spectacular, one of NYC’s premier holiday shows, has become an annual tradition that fills visitors with festive joy. Watch as the iconic Rockettes dance and high kick in unison to perform classic numbers such as “Parade of Wooden Soldiers” and “Living Nativity.”

Santa will make an appearance during the show’s finale! Additionally, during this holiday season the theater hosts various musical performances including performances by Broadway stars and special guests.

Rockefeller Center in Manhattan makes for an easily accessible show, with subway lines B, D, F or M all providing service directly to 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Ctr. Tickets start from $120-$140 on StubHub with dates spanning November 8-2025 for performances that run until January 5-2025.

If you’re in the mood for something more electrifying this holiday season, make plans to catch Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s HolidayMania on tour between November and December. This electrifying holiday rock opera promises to add even more festive spirit into your holiday festivities! This electrifying performance features all your favorite hits from this legendary rock group; be sure to make this festive event part of your holiday experience!

The New York Botanical Garden

NYC’s premier horticulturists are offering one-night-only shopping experiences featuring an amazing selection of flower and garden favorites perfect for home, patio or windowsill decor. Additionally, enjoy holiday-themed cocktails and delectable bites!

Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, an iconic NYC tradition, offers thrilling dance numbers and captivating visuals in an exhilarating 90-minute show, perfect for all ages. With iconic moments such as the Parade of Wooden Soldiers or an awe-inspiring living Nativity scene – this spectacular production is truly captivating – making for an unforgettable holiday tradition!

Holiday window displays at Fifth Avenue department stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Macy’s delight visitors of all ages each year, as designers display their creativity. Plus, don’t miss your chance to catch sight of Santa on his sleigh!

If you have limited time in New York City this winter, join a small-group NYC Holiday Markets walking tour for an ideal way to see Rockefeller Center, shop seasonal markets and take in its sights with an experienced guide.

Saks Fifth Ave. Lights

Since decades, holiday shoppers and travelers seeking a magical touch have visited Saks Fifth Avenue in Manhattan for its captivating light shows. However, this year the iconic department store decided not to illuminate them due to a decision that has caused outrage among loyal shoppers and New Yorkers as a whole.

Retailer spokesperson said the decision was due to “changes in its approach to its holiday windows” this year as Saks celebrates their 100th anniversary. They will still feature their world-famous window displays in new ways!

Visit Rockefeller Center to witness its iconic tree lighting, held every year from late November to early January. Adding extra excitement, catch one of the Radio City Rockettes shows – their talented dancers and vocalists will surely bring festive cheer and bring out your festive side! Or go even further afield and explore Dyker Heights where residents transform their homes into vibrant Christmas spectacles with stunning decorations that rival anything New York could offer!

Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting

Visit NYC at Christmas time without catching one of its iconic New York traditions: Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting is an iconic New York tradition and should not be missed! Held annually on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving, it showcases light and music while featuring live performances by top celebrities – like John Legend, Gwen Stefani, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood or Pentatonix (Mariach Carey Dolly Parton etc) who perform for millions across America!

On November 27th, the tree will be freed from scaffolding but won’t be lit until an official lighting ceremony on December 4th. Visitors to NYC are invited to attend this event which will also be broadcast live by NBC; or watch from home!

This year’s tree is a 74-foot Norway Spruce from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts that weighs 11 tons and will be illuminated with more than 50,000 multicolored lights. Radio City Rockettes will perform during this event while celebrities such as Kelly Clarkson, Backstreet Boys Dan+ Shay Jennifer Hudson Coco Jones Megan Hilty RAYE Thalia are expected to attend.

Holiday Train Nights

Holiday Train Nights transport you into a winter wonderland filled with model trains and twinkling cityscapes at this annual holiday event, honoring beloved traditions in an enchanted setting. Join your friends on 21+ nights of live musical performances or bring along your whole family to enjoy all-ages festivities, from designing snowflake lanterns and writing messages on them to competing against one another in gingerbread house competitions.

Radio City Rockettes have delighted audiences since 1933 with their Christmas Spectacular show. Boasting high-energy dance numbers and stunning visuals – from iconic acts like the Parade of Wooden Soldiers to an awe-inspiring Living Nativity scene – it’s become a beloved tradition at Radio City!

Macy’s Herald Square transforms into the North Pole every holiday season with an extravagant indoor and outdoor display, inviting children to share their wish lists with Santa Claus (accompanied by his prancing reindeers), from November 29 through December 24. Join millions in Times Square as we welcome in 2019 together in a stunning fireworks display and world-famous ball drop.