So you’ve decided to visit New York City in December, lucky you! This month just might be the best time in the Big Apple, especially for those who love the Christmas spirit.
And if you’re looking for things to do in New York in December, there’s plenty. In this post I’ll outline seasonal attractions that you’ll only get during the holiday season, as well as few events and seasonal treats.
As a local, this list has been a long time in the making with many trial runs with my out of town guests (thanks, mom). I hope you find it useful in planning things to do in New York City in December.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
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Tips for visiting NYC in December
- Bring winter shoes: It’s no secret that winter in New York City is cold, and the most miserable place to be cold is in your toes. I recommend insulated/waterproof boots (here’s the pair I live in) and the only wool socks you’ll need.
- Bring lip balm & moisturizer: Winters in New York City are dry and cold. Add the raging industrial heaters to the mix and you’re bound to need quality lip balm and moisturizer. Lip balm is a personal thing, but if helpful, here’s the best one I’ve found to date (and it’s cheap!).
- Portable charger: Cold weather depletes batteries (both cellphones and camera) quicker than you’d expect, so when heading out for the day make sure you’re at full charge and pick up one of these.
This article will cover the best things to do in December in New York City. Things like holiday attractions (’tis the season!) and seasonal treats offered only during December in NYC. Feel free to jump to the section you’re most interested in.
Things to Do in New York in December | Visiting NYC in December
Get lost at Lightscape in Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Dates: All December 2022 – January 8, 2023
Founded in 1910 and hosting nearly a million visitors annually, Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is a spot you can’t afford to miss, especially if you’re in search of one of the best things to do in New York in December.
The garden hosts an annual art display named Lightscape which boasts more than one million lights. The lights follow a path that leads guests through the different gardens, showcasing ornate trees and lighted sculptures.
If you’re in search of a date-night activity, or a fun place to take your kids consider Lightscape. As one of the best things to do in New York in December you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more charming pastime.
Note: This is one of the most popular things to do in New York in December and tickets sold out last year. Be sure to book your tickets well in advance.
Address: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225
Visit the Central Park Holiday Lighting
Dates: December 1st, 2022 at 5:30PM
Central Park may be the most famous park in the world, but I’m going to let you in on a hidden gem. In the northwest corner of the park you’ll find an illuminated Christmas tree in the Harlem Meer.
Admittedly, the Christmas tree isn’t the biggest or brightest one you’ll find in New York City in December, but its iconic location alone warrants a visit. Since it’s removed from popular tourist attractions, its also a more serene experience.
Plus, the lighting ceremony is an amusing way to spend an afternoon. Santa and a few of his helpers stop by the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, and there’s hot coco to keep everybody warm. Last year there was ice sculpting, and live performances too, all for free!
Address: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, East Side on 110th Street.
Enjoy Artechouse’s technological art
Dates: All December 2022 – January 8, 2023
New York City is renowned for its art galleries, and Artechouse has to be one of the most unique. Focusing on digital art, Artechouse goes beyond the easel and the canvas.
Artechouse wants their art to be experienced, so their current display Spectacular Factory: The Holiday Multiverse is an immersive array of music, lights and pictures that cover nearly every surface of the gallery.
Traditional holiday items like nutcrackers and bells help paint the picture of a gift factory that’s come to life. Checking out Artechouse’s technological art is one of the best things to do in New York in December, especially if you’re looking for something beyond traditional art museums.
Note: Because this is among the most popular things to do in New York in December we strongly encourage booking tickets in advance. You can do so on Artechouse’s website.
Address: 439 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
Admire George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
Dates: All December 2022 – December 31st, 2022
If you’re looking for special things to do in New York in December this one is for you. George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker ballet performance has to be the most iconic holiday show in the Big Apple.
Most folks grew up watching the Nutcracker on TV, but there’s nothing like seeing a live performance by the talented New York City Ballet. But be forewarned, this is the most popular things to do in New York City in December, so tickets sell out quickly.
I must admit, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy seeing the Nutcracker before my first visit. I’m not a “ballet person” and with tickets clocking in around $100-200 a piece I wasn’t sure it was worth the expense.
However, when my mom and sister visited be during my first Christmas in New York City, I knew we had to go. The 2-hour performance blew me away, I couldn’t stop talking about it!
After seeing The Nutcracker for myself, I instantly knew why this was considered one of the best things to do in New York City during December.
Address: David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
Enjoy Holiday Cocktails at Miracle on 9th
Dates: All December 2022 – December 31st, 2022
Miracle is a holiday pop-up that partners with host bars and serves an array of holiday-inspired cocktails. Therefore one of the best things to do in New York in December is to get off the cold streets and head to Miracle on 9th Street for some Christmas cocktails.
The festive decor is reason alone to visit, taking over the host bar from floor to ceiling. Even the drinks are served in festive cups, my favorite of which is a Santa mug.
And although there is a Miracle location in Brooklyn, I consider visiting Miracle on 9th Street one of the best things to do in New York in December because it’s the original location.
Address: 649 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009
Appreciate the window displays on Fifth Avenue
Dates: All December
With advertising being a multi-million dollar industry it should come as no surprise big department stores allot a generous sum of money into their holiday window displays.
In fact, one of the best things to do in New York in December is to walk down Fifth Avenue and peruse the many elaborate window displays. Each store tries to best their competitors, as well as their own display from last year.
The real winner though is you! It’s free art to be enjoyed, and believe me when I say you can spend hours analyzing the displays.
As an added bonus, this is one the best things to do in New York in December because Fifth Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic. That’s right, for the first time in history Fifth Avenue will shut down traffic for an event called Fifth Avenue for All.
Closures will be on December 4th, 11th, and 18th from 12PM to 6PM, from 48th to 57th Streets. This means you can enjoy one of the best things to do in New York in December without the noise, pollution or dangers that come with a busy street!
Go Ice Skating
Dates: All December
Is there anything more romantic than ice skating in New York City in December? Yes there is, ice skating in New York City in December AND in Central Park!
Although NYC is home to many iconic ice skating rink (looking at you Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park) there is none more charming than Wollman Rink.
Sitting in Central Park underneath the shadow of the Plaza Hotel and Billionaires Row makes it near impossible to be more picturesque. Visiting is one of the best things to do in New York in December, whether alone or with friends.
Address: 830 5th Ave, New York, NY 10065
Tour Dyker Heights
Dates: All December 2022
Dyker Heights is a neighborhood in South Brooklyn, with a section of around 100 houses that go all out decorating for the holidays. Between the bright lights and lawn decorations there’s so much to see!
Perusing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights has been one of the best things to do in New York in December for 40 years, and with the growing crowds I can only assume the amount of houses decorating will also increase.
There are plenty of tours offered in Dyker Heights too, but in my (humble) opinion you’ll be fine visiting without one. If at all possible, try to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds since this is one of the best things to do in New York in December.
Want more information? Check out Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2022 (Everything You Need to Know)
Have dinner at a Christmas restaurant
Dates: All December
There are many, many restaurants that warrant a visit in New York in December for a holiday themed meal. From the candy canes and garlands to the ornaments and nutcrackers, the only thing missing is Santa Claus himself.
Although Rolf’s is arguably the best known Christmas themed restaurant, I personally feel like it can be a bit of a tourist trap. Sure, the decorations are beautiful but the food is mediocre at best.
My suggestion is to visit Papillon Bistro. The decorations are on par with the ones at Rolf’s and you’ll get to enjoy a great meal. Just be forewarned, as one of the most popular things to do in New York in December the wait time can be off-putting, so be sure to make reservations.
Interested in more holiday themed restaurants you can visit this December in NYC? Read 15 Epic New York City Christmas Restaurants You’re Sure to Love.
Visit Macy’s Herald Square
Dates: All December 2022
Macy’s Herald Square is the biggest department store in the United States, meaning there is always something to do. One of the best things to do in New York in December is to visit the store for their many holiday events.
These include their elaborate window displays, colorful decorations and a free (but reservations required) winter village on the eighth floor named Macy’s Santaland.
And after a day of perusing don’t be surprised if you get all your Christmas shopping done in a day. With more than 1 million square feet of retail space there is sure to be an item for everyone on your list.
Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
Looking for more info on Macy’s Santaland? Be sure to read The Complete Guide to Macy’s Santaland in NYC (Your Kids Won’t Want to Leave!)
Applaud the Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes
Dates: All December 2022 – January 2nd, 2023
The Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes has been performing at Radio City Music Hall since the 1930’s and doesn’t show signs of slowing anytime soon. Ask any local about their favorite things to do in New York City in December and this is bound to come up.
The 90-minute performance is awe-inspiring and guaranteed to impress even the staunchest critic. The choreography is on point and the dancers’ high kicks seem to defy the laws of physics.
Seeing the Rockettes live is a great thing to do in New York in December with the whole family, but even folks without kids (*raises hand) will enjoy it immensely.
Address: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
Enjoy the New York Botanical Garden Train Show
Dates: All December – January 16th, 2023
The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss New York City December activity, especially if you’re visiting with kids.
Model trains make way past 190 replicas of New York’s landmarks, all made from natural-growing materials. It should come as no surprise the train show has been an a staple of December in New York City for more than 30 years!
Don’t have kids? Visit during the adult-only bar nights for an experience you soon won’t forget. A model-train show might not be up everybody’s alley but add some booze and you’re sure to enjoy.
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10458
Admire the Rockefeller Center Tree
Dates: All December 2022 usually into early January
Putting up a Christmas Tree at the Rockefeller Center is a tradition that dates back to 1933, officially (unofficially, construction workers put up the first tree in 1931).
The fact that even during the Great Depression New Yorkers understood the importance of holiday cheer, it should come as no surprise that this is the most popular Christmas tree to visit every December in New York.
A new tree is selected every year with an impressive requirement: the tree must be at least 75 feet tall. Decorated with more than 50,000 lights and topped with a breathtaking (and super bright) Swarovski star, visiting is one of the most unforgettable things to do in New York in December.
My advice is to visit as early as possible (like first thing in the morning). The crowds are so intense at this popular NYC Christmas tree and it takes away from the overall experience. Plus, the tree is lit at 6AM so you’ll still be able to see the lights.
Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
Visit the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Dates: All December – shops close January 2nd, 2023, rink and lodge close March 5th, 2023
The Bank of American Winter Village at Bryant Park is the best known holiday market in NYC for good reason. There are dozens of shops trinkets and food, a 17,000 sq ft. ice skating rink and a memorable Christmas tree.
That’s why visiting is one of the best things to do in New York in December. Book an igloo for a romantic date night before you ice skate, or bring home a souvenir from one of the local vendors.
And if you work up an appetite on the ice, grab a bite from the Lodge Food Hall. The Lodge even offers a full service bar, so adults and kids can both agree the Bank of American Winter Village at Bryant Park is one of the best things to do in New York in December.
Partake in Holiday on the Hudson
Dates: December 3rd, 2022 from 4:30 to 6PM.
Summer on the Hudson is the organization that hosts annual community events at Hudson River Park. It also hosts one of the best free things to do in New York in December, transforming into Holiday on the Hudson.
On December 3rd there will be a tree lighting, hot coco drinking, decoration making extravaganza at the West Harlem Piers in Riverside Park. There will even be live music, so bring your dancing shoes!
Address: 125th Street and Marginal Street in West Harlem Piers, New York, NY 10027
Hop aboard the Holiday Nostalgia Train
Dates: December 4th, 11th & 18th, 2022
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride in a subway train from the 1930’s? If so, you should stop by the One Line on Sunday December 4th, 11th, or 18th for a ride aboard the Holiday Nostalgia Train!
Thanks to the New York Transmit Museum and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority we now get to take a trip into the past and see what a New Yorker commute looked like nearly 100 years ago.
Some folks don’t know to expect the train, so seeing the confused look on their face is amusing to say the least. Others go all out, and dress in clothing you would’ve seen back in the day. Either way, taking a ride aboard the Holiday Nostalgia Train is one of the best things to do in New York in December.
More info on specific subway stations, stops, and times is available on The New York Transit Museum’s website.
Check out a free Broadway performance
Dates: Wednesday December 7th and Wednesday December 14th.
For those of us who’ve wanted to attend a Broadway musical but lack the trust fund to do so, The Shops at Columbus Circle have us covered with Broadway Under The Stars.
Performers from some of Broadway’s most popular plays meet on the second floor to perform, for free, in what I consider to be one of the best things to do in New York in December.
December 7th features cast members from Phantom of the Opera and Kimberly Akimbo. December 14th performers from Moulin Rouge! The Musical take the stage, with performances starting at 5PM.
Show up early to grab a drink, and stay a little afterwards to get some Christmas shopping done. Needless to say, enjoying a free Broadway performance is one of the best things to do in New York in December.
Address: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019
Partake in (or avoid) SantaCon
Date: Saturday, December 10th, 2022
Beer and a thousand Santas, doesn’t get much better than that, right? One of the best annual things to do in New York in December is to dress up for SantaCon.
It’s essentially a beer crawl, where folks wear a Santa (or other holiday) costume as they drink with friends and meet new ones along the way. Participating bars offer sales to those participating (you’ll need a ticket to get a wristband).
But just remember, drunken people are known to get a little disorderly. Therefore, Santacon is a New York event in December you’ll want to add to your calendar, either to participate in or avoid!
Address: Rendezvous point is disclosed in confirmation email after purchasing tickets.
Further reading: Everything You Need to Know About SantaCon NYC (or How to Avoid it!)
Sing Christmas carols at Washington Square Park
Date: Saturday, December 24, 2022 – 5 to 6PM
Bring your grandmas, folks cause we’re going caroling! Classics like Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men can be heard around Washington Square Park on Christmas Eve.
As one of the best things to do in New York in December you can expect a crowd of eager carolers. Be sure to print out the caroling book or save it on your phone so you can join too!
Address: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012
Celebrate New Years Eve
Date: December 31st, 2022
I often get asked if New Years Eve in NYC is as magical as it seems in the movies. The honest answer? It’s even better! And no – I’m not talking about visiting Times Square (I won’t be doing that again).
From dancing until your feet ache to drinking champagne at a black-tie party, New Years Eve is arguably the best day in December in New York City. Just make sure to budget approproately, it might be the most expensive day, too.
Want to find out why I don’t recommend celebrating New Years Eve in Times Square? Read Ultimate Guide to Times Square New Years Eve 2022 (is it Worth it?)
Best Events in New York in December
Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas to All
Dates: December 13th and December 16th, 2022
There’s a running joke that every year Mariah Carey defrosts for the holiday season, ready to sing her cult classic All I Want for Christmas Is You on repeat.
And for two nights in December in New York City you can hear the iconic Christmas song live at Madison Square Garden. The legendary venue, award winning artist and festive cheer of the holidays are sure to make for an unforgettable evening,
Address: Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
Marky Ramone’s Holiday Blitzkrieg
Date: Friday, December 16th, 2022
Few bands loom as large in New York’s pantheon as the Ramones, the creators of punk rock. And although Marky Ramone wasn’t one of the four original members, he’s been with the band for nearly 50 years.
Marky has continued to keep the Ramone’s legacy alive, noticeably with his annual Christmas show every December in New York City. But I don’t want you to think this is one of those shows where you sit down and are serenaded while drinking champagne, Marky Ramone still puts on a punk show.
Loud amplifiers and mosh pits are par for the course, along with the unwritten dress code of all black (in true punk fashion). And throw the Christmas carols out the window, Marky still sings all of the Ramone’s greatest hits.
For those looking for something new as well as for those looking to relive their glory days (no judgement here), this is one of the best things to do in New York in December.
Tickets to Marky Ramone’s Holiday Blitzkrieg start at $40.
Address: Gramercy Theatre, 127 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10010
Jerry Seinfeld at Beacon Theatre
Dates: December 16th & December 17th, 2022
Famed actor, producer, and stand-up comedian Jerry Seinfeld will be performing four shows at the Beacon Theatre in what is sure to be one of the best events in New York in December.
As a New York native Seinfeld is loved in the city, and is often regarded as one of the best comedians at all time. I don’t anticipate tickets will last long, so plan accordingly and purchase them in advance.
Address: Beacon Theatre, 2124 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden
Dates: December 19th, 2022
Billy Joel is Madison Square Garden’s first and only musical franchise. This essentially means that Madison Square Garden is his home, just as much as it’s the home of the New York Knicks or New York Rangers.
As a resident he performs monthly, and if you’re visiting New York in December you should make an effort to catch a show.
Known as The Piano Man, Joel is one the fourth best-selling solo artist in the United States, the winner of 5 Grammys and a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. To call this guy a living legend would be understatement, so be sure to check out a show while visiting New York in December.
Address: Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
New York Knicks Christmas Game vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Dates: December 25th, 2022
For 75 years there has been professional basketball on Christmas day, and in recent years these games have become some of the most intense of the season.
This year, one of those games will be the New York Knicks vs. the Phildelphia 76ers. They’ll be playing at Madison Square Garden, affectionately nicknamed the Mecca of Basketball.
The energy is unparalleled for a regular season game, so it’ll be one of the best things to do in New York in December regardless of whether you’re a fan of the teams.
Address: Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
Best Seasonal Treats in New York in December
Daily Provisions Crueller
If you’ve never had a cruller from Daily Provisions you need to do yourself a favor, drop whatever you’re doing and beeline to your nearest location. The donut-like pastry is spongy unlike anything I’ve ever had and perfectly sweet.
Even better, Daily Provisions has introduced New York to a gingerbread cruller exclusive to December. When I saw the announcement it nearly made my head explode, and my tastebuds followed soon after the first bite.
Peppermint cookie from Levain
The best cookies in New York City, (yeah, I said it) just got a December limited time offering in the form of a peppermint cookie. Levain, you have outdone yourself yet again – I tip my hat.
The gooey center of the cookie is best when fresh and warm, and the peppermint flavor tastes like a Hallmark movie. My inner child is squealing excitedly just thinking about it!
Mandarin orange & dark chocolate Cronut
Dominique Ansel has developed a cult following at his SoHo bakery, thanks largely to the cronut. A cross between a croissant and a donut, what’s even more impressive is that the flavor rotates monthly and NEVER REPEATS.
This December in New York guests can expect mandarin orange and dark chocolate. Although I have yet to try it you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll be first in line in the morning.
The Grinch from Mister Dips
Located on Pier 17, Mister Dips puts out a seasonal ice cream cone that resembles a Christmas tree just in time for the holidays.
Made up of frozen egg nog custard and dipped in an evergreen hard-shell, then garnished with sprinkles and of course, a gold star, this is one of the tastiest treats out there. If you are visiting New York in December, make sure to swing by to grab the temporary treat and check out the ice rink near by!
Red velvet banana pudding from Magnolia
Red velvet banana pudding. A Red velvet banana pudding caused me to leave work early and beeline to Magnolia Bakery and let me tell you, it was worth it.
December’s banana pudding flavor of the month features a layer of red velvet cake and chocolate shavings that compliment better than peanut butter and jelly.
Loreley Beer Garden Boozy Black & White Hot Chocolate
I had to include a seasonal drink option for all my boozy buddies. Loreley Beer Garden serves a boozy black and white chocolate that makes me never want to revert to regular hot chocolate again.
Not to mention the back patio gets a makeover into a winter wonderland, so you and your friends can drink in style. Try not to get too carried away though, each day offers a different happy hour that can make it easy to lose track of time.
Best things to do in New York in December (Post Summary)
- Get lost at Lightscape in Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- Visit the Central Park Holiday Lighting
- Enjoy Artechouse’s technological art
- Admire George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
- Enjoy Holiday Cocktails at Miracle on 9th
- Appreciate the window displays
- Go Ice Skating
- Tour Dyker Heights
- Have dinner at a Christmas restaurant
- Visit Macy’s Herald Square
- Applaud the Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes
- Enjoy the New York Botanical Garden Train Show
- Admire the Rockefeller Center Tree
- Visit the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
- Partake in Holiday on the Hudson
- Hop aboard the Holiday Nostalgia Train
- Check out a free Broadway performance
- Partake in (or avoid) SantaCon
- Sing Christmas carols at Washington Square Park
- Celebrate New Years Eve
- Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas to All
- Marky Ramone’s Holiday Blitzkrieg
- Jerry Seinfeld at Beacon Theatre
- Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden
- New York Knicks Christmas Game vs. Philadelphia 76ers
- Daily Provisions Crueller
- Peppermint Cookie from Levain
- Mandarin Orange & Dark Chocolate Cronut
- Banana Pudding from Magnolia
- Loreley Beer Garden Boozy Black & White Hot Chocolate
Map of fun New York City December
And there you have it, folks! A rundown of the best things to do in New York in December.
Let me know if you found this post helpful, or how we can improve. Cheers! (Best Time to Visit)
Such a detailed and great article. I’ve lived in Manhattan for 32 years but haven’t done anything mentioned in your list. I’m thinking about starting a new tradition this holiday season!