EXPERIENCE THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT: NEW YORK CITY TOURISM + CONVENTIONS INVITES VISITORS TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON ACROSS ALL FIVE BOROUGHS

*Information originally published August 25, subject to change. Last updated November 13*

Approximately 8 Million Travelers Expected to Visit New York City This Holiday Season

Holiday Celebrations, Cultural Attractions, Exclusive Hotel Offers, and More Across All Five Boroughs

New York City (August 25, 2025) — New York City Tourism + Conventions, the official destination marketing organization for New York City’s five boroughs, invites local and global visitors to join the festivities this holiday season, which kicks off in October with the arrival of Diwali, followed by the 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in November. New York City offers festive performances, winter exhibits, holiday light displays and more across all five boroughs, enchanting visitors of all ages.

“New York City comes alive during the holidays like nowhere else in the world, and this year the excitement is even greater as we celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary,” said New York City Tourism + Conventions’ President and CEO, Julie Coker. “With 8 million visitors expected between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, New Yorkers and travelers alike will enjoy unforgettable experiences—from dining and shopping to world-class performances and iconic holiday attractions—while supporting businesses across all five boroughs.”

Here are some of the many ways to celebrate the holiday season in New York City:

ANNUAL CELEBRATIONS:

Diwali Times Square
October 12 | Midtown Manhattan
Diwali at Times Square, the largest South Asian festival and concert in North America, will mark its 10th anniversary celebration in Times Square on October 12. This annual free event celebrates the Festival of Lights and shares messages of love, peace, harmony and togetherness through India’s rich art and culture, including dance, music and food.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 27 | Manhattan
The annual New York City celebration is returning for its 99th edition, featuring impressive helium balloons, creative floats, clowns, mesmerizing performance groups, popular Broadway musicals, celebrity appearances and much more. The parade will begin at its traditional starting point on West 77th Street and Central Park West, ending in front of Macy’s Herald Square flagship store.

Holidays at Rockefeller Center
December | Midtown Manhattan
Christmas in New York means celebrating the holidays at Rockefeller Center. From seeing the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, which will light up December 3; ice-skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center Presented by Chase Freedom and winding down at one of the Après Skate Chalets; enjoying a sweet treat at Glace or Ralph’s Coffee; or finding the perfect gift at retail destinations including Catbird, McNally Jackson and FAO Schwarz, there’s something for everyone. And of course, no trip to Rockefeller Center’s campus is complete without experiencing the Top of the Rock observation deck for unparalleled 360-degree views and photo opportunities with Santa on select dates and times.

Lighting of the Largest Menorahs in Brooklyn
December 14–22 | Prospect Heights, Brooklyn; Midtown Manhattan
Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn and Manhattan will mark Hanukkah by lighting the City’s largest menorahs each night, accompanied by live music, hot latkes and gifts for children throughout the festival.

New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop
December 31–January 1 | Midtown Manhattan
The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball is an icon in New York City, and watching its descent in person on New Year’s Eve is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime way to ring in the New Year. Millions from around the globe view the broadcast event in NYC along with hundreds of thousands of spectators in Times Square on December 31. To be a part of the celebration, submit your wishes in person or digitally to be printed on the confetti that will be released during this year’s celebration.

CHEERFUL PERFORMANCES:

Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
November 6–January 4 | Midtown Manhattan
Experience the beloved holiday tradition as it returns to the iconic stage of Radio City Music Hall for its 100-year anniversary. This festive show welcomes more than 1 million people each holiday season to experience its stunning costumes, joyful music, precise choreography and innovative performances. With multiple shows daily, now is the ideal time to be part of this timeless celebration.

Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
November 7–January 4 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
This holiday season, the Big Apple Circus returns to Lincoln Center with an all-new show filled with wonder, laughter and jaw-dropping performances. From the daring Flying Maluendas to the astonishing Kung Fu Boys, audiences will experience breathtaking feats under the big top. Perfect for families and visitors of all ages, it’s a dazzling way to celebrate the season in New York City.

A Christmas Carol at PAC NYC
November 23–January 4 | Lower Manhattan
PAC NYC presents an immersive, intimate staging of A Christmas Carol, crafted by Tony Award-winning artists playwright Jack Thorne and director Matthew Warchus. This magical retelling wraps the audience around the action as Ebenezer Scrooge journeys through past, present, and future, brought to life with dazzling staging, moving storytelling and beloved Christmas carols.

A Christmas Carol at Merchant’s House Museum
November 25–December 27 | Noho, Manhattan
Summoners Ensemble Theatre presents A Christmas Carol at the Merchant’s House Museum, featuring John Kevin Jones as Charles Dickens. Set in the museum’s beautifully preserved 19th-century parlor decorated for the holidays, this intimate 70-minute performance brings Dickens’ timeless tale to life. Select shows also include a festive reception with a reading of “A Visit from St. Nicholas” and seasonal refreshments.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet!
November 28 | Washington Heights, Manhattan
Experience the enchantment of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet! with the whole family this holiday season. Showcasing an international all-star cast, this cherished production blends world-class ballet with whimsical puppetry, extravagant costumes and breathtaking acrobatics.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live
November 28 & December 4 | Flatbush, Brooklyn
This winter, two standout holiday productions hit the stage. A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage brings the beloved Peanuts special to life with Vince Guaraldi’s iconic score, immersive sets and colorful costumes. Drag superstars BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon return with an all-new Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show, a camp-filled mix of comedy, music and festive spectacle.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
November 28–January 4 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
Visitors are invited to experience the magic of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, from the glowing Christmas tree to swirling snow and enchanting characters set to Tschaikovsky’s iconic score. A special family-friendly one-hour performance featuring interactive programming and excerpts from the show will be held on December 20. The season concludes on January 4 with a special sensory-friendly performance featuring adjusted lighting and sound, designed for audiences with sensory processing challenges, including autism..

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at New York City Center
December 3–January 4 | Midtown Manhattan
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will return this holiday season for a five-week engagement. The milestone season raises the curtain on Ailey’s next era under the leadership of new Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack, guided as ever by Alvin Ailey’s pioneering legacy. Audiences will be treated to classic works from the Ailey repertory that have inspired and uplifted fans for decades-including the touchstone of inspiration Revelations, the ultimate anthem to resilience and joy.

It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play at the Irish Repertory Theatre
December 3—31 | Chelsea, Manhattan
Celebrate the holidays at Irish Repertory Theatre as the beloved radio play It’s A Wonderful Life! returns to the Mainstage, bringing Frank Capra’s classic story to life as a live 1946-style radio broadcast. Filled with nostalgic songs, vintage commercials, and handmade sound effects, this heartwarming production follows George Bailey and Clarence the angel, capturing the magic of the Golden Age of Radio for audiences of all ages.

‘Twas the Night Before…
December 4–28 | Midtown Manhattan
Cirque du Soleil’s ’Twas the Night Before… returns to The Theater at Madison Square Garden for a limited holiday run, bringing the classic poem to life through stunning acrobatics and heartwarming storytelling. The show follows Isabella and her father on a magical winter journey that rekindles their holiday spirit and love for family traditions.

The Brooklyn Nutcracker Presented by the Brooklyn Ballet at The Theater at City Tech
December 6–7 and 13–14 | Downtown Brooklyn
The Brooklyn Nutcracker reimagines the classic ballet through the lens of Brooklyn’s diverse cultural tapestry, blending iconic characters with hip hop, pop and lock and bohemian flair. This vibrant journey travels from Victorian Flatbush to modern-day Brooklyn, with stops at landmarks like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and a Flatbush Avenue subway platform.

My First Nutcracker
December 6–21 | Midtown Manhattan
This holiday season, New York City Children’s Theater presents My First Nutcracker, a joyful, 50-minute reimagining of the classic tale created for ages 3–8. Filled with music, dance and imagination, the show offers a playful introduction to a beloved holiday tradition for the whole family.

Chris Botti’s 21st Annual Holiday Residency at Blue Note Jazz Club
December 8–January 4 | Greenwich Village, Manhattan
This holiday season Blue Note Jazz Club presents trumpeter Chris Botti’s highly anticipated Holiday Residency, celebrating over 20 years of his iconic performances.

Holidays with the New York Philharmonic
December 10–December 20 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
Celebrate the season with the New York Philharmonic’s holiday lineup. Conductor Jane Glover leads the chorus of Music of the Baroque and a stellar cast of soloists in Handel’s Messiah, a soaring setting of Biblical texts filled with iconic melodies. Families can also enjoy the holiday favorite Home Alone, with John Williams’s delightful score performed live to picture as Kevin McCallister’s comedic adventures unfold on the big screen. Plus, the Philharmonic’s beloved Sounds of the Season matinees return, offering a family-friendly sampler of festive music to be announced.

The Magic Flute
December 11–January 3 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
A beloved holiday tradition, Mozart’s enchanting fairy tale returns in the Met’s abridged, English-language production by Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor. With some of opera’s most beloved melodies, colorful sets and costumes and dazzling puppetry, this family-friendly staging offers a magical experience for audiences of all ages. On December 14 ticketholders are also invited to a free Holiday Open House before the performance, featuring special activities for children and families.

Keith Michael’s
December 13 | Flushing, Queens
Experience the holiday magic with New York Theatre Ballet’s one-hour rendition of The Nutcracker, set to Keith Michael’s choreography and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score in an elegant art nouveau style. For nearly 50 years the company has paired timeless revivals with contemporary works, blending cherished tradition with fresh, innovative performances.

Holiday Festivities at The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine
December 13–December 31 | Morningside Heights, Manhattan
This holiday season St. John the Divine will present a rich lineup of concerts, including the Joy of Christmas concert featuring Bach’s Magnificat and beloved carols, and the renowned New Year’s Eve Concert for Peace with Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Additional musical highlights include organ recitals, special evensong performances and seasonal programs that blend world-class artistry with the Cathedral’s cherished holiday traditions.

54 Below Celebrates Hanukkah: A Festival of Writers
December 15 | Midtown Manhattan
54 Below presents 54 Celebrates Hanukkah: A Festival of Writers, an evening where top Jewish musical theater creators debut brand-new songs inspired by Hanukkah. Featuring Broadway talent and original compositions, the show brings fresh musical energy to the Festival of Lights.

Christmas Lives Here
December 18–December 24 | Midtown Manhattan
Celebrate the season with Tony® nominee Norm Lewis as he returns to 54 Below for his acclaimed holiday residency, Christmas Lives Here. Backed by a stellar band, Lewis delivers an unforgettable mix of new songs, festive favorites and signature surprises. This Broadway tradition has become a must-see part of New York City’s holiday celebrations.

Spotlight: The New York Nutcracker
December 18 & 19 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
Lincoln Center’s holiday lineup features Spotlight: A Night at the Atrium, a playful twist on The Nutcracker blending burlesque, puppetry, comedy and dance for a dazzling offbeat celebration of the season. Also returning is Murray Hill’s A Murray Little Christmas, marking its 25th year with a one-night-only variety extravaganza of camp, comedy, music and community spirit-complete with a live band, surprise guests and plenty of holiday cheer.

Winter Concert: Yale Strom & Hot Pstromi at the Museum at Eldridge Street
December 25 | Lower East Side, Manhattan
The Museum at Eldridge Street hosts its annual winter concert featuring klezmer artist Yale Strom and his band, Hot Pstromi, performing classic Yiddish songs, original compositions and traditional melodies discovered during his ethnographic research. This family-friendly holiday event celebrates Jewish musical heritage in the museum’s historic Lower East Side setting. The museum’s seasonal offerings also include Arts & Learning: Chanukah!, Virtual Exhibition Talk: Lighting the World—Menorahs Around the Globe and more.

The Christmas Show
Throughout December | St. George, Staten Island
This holiday season, the St. George Theatre presents three festive shows. Jane Lynch: A Swingin’ Little Christmas delivers classic holiday tunes with comedy and charm, while A Rock’n Holiday Spectacular showcases The Doo-Wop Project, Bobby Wilson, The Coasters and more, hosted by Vinnie Medugno. The Christmas Show 2025 takes audiences on a magical journey from the North Pole to New York City landmarks in a high-energy celebration featuring Staten Island’s finest talent.

Holiday Shows at The Second City Williamsburg
Throughout December | Williamsburg, Brooklyn
This holiday season, Second City Williamsburg presents two festive comedy shows. It’s Every Holiday, All at Once is a chaotic, unscripted celebration overflowing with laughs—perfect for date nights, friend outings or anyone who thinks Die Hard is a Christmas movie. For family-friendly fun, Reindeer Games brings fast-paced, completely improvised holiday humor that guarantees big laughs for all ages.

Christmas Tree Lighting and Illuminate the Farm at Queens County Farm
Throughout December | Glen Oaks, Queens
Queens County Farm Museum kicks off the season with its annual Christmas tree lighting on December 6, followed by Illuminate the Farm. Visitors can explore the farm transformed into a radiant landscape, featuring glowing displays and immersive light installations.

Holiday Jazz Performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center
Throughout December | Midtown Manhattan
Jazz at Lincoln Center celebrates the holiday season with festive performances for the whole family. The WeBop Family Jazz Party offers an interactive, high-energy holiday jazz jam where kids and adults can sing, dance and play along, while the Big Band Holidays concert features the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra performing classic seasonal favorites with swinging arrangements and spirited big band flair. Together, these concerts bring the joy of live jazz to holiday celebrations in New York City.

Festive Concerts at Carnegie Hall
Throughout December | Midtown Manhattan
Carnegie Hall ushers in the holidays with a series of festive concerts. Highlights include the Orchestra of St. Luke’s Chamber Ensemble performing Corelli and Vivaldi, the Princeton Nassoons’ seasonal program, the Oratorio Society of New York’s 151st consecutive Messiah, the Christmas Night Opera Gala with stars like Sondra Radvanovsky and Thomas Hampson and Concert of the Future: A Christmas Dream, a candlelit immersive blend of classical music and meditative sounds. The New York Pops will also return for their beloved annual holiday concert, A Place Called Home, featuring Broadway star Megan Hilty and the Essential Voices USA choir.

WINTER EXHIBITIONS AND CULTURAL EVENTS:

Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection
October 24–February 8 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
At The New York Historical, model trains, toy stations, and miniatures are on display illustrating the design evolution from the early 20th century to the era of World War II. Families can explore the objects with a special scavenger hunt, and train-themed storytimes take place on select dates.

Holiday Offerings at Hershey's Chocolate World Times Square
November 4–January 2 | Times Square, Manhattan
Celebrate the holiday season at Hershey’s Chocolate World Times Square, where festive treats and classic favorites like Reese’s, Kisses and Kit Kat are dressed for the season. Guests can enjoy specialty hot chocolates, seasonal milkshakes, s’mores creations and even customize their own Hershey’s Bar. It’s a sweet destination for holiday indulgence and gifting in the heart of Times Square.

Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off
November 7–January 19 | Upper East Side, Manhattan
The Museum of the City of New York’s Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off returns this holiday season, featuring edible creations inspired by the City’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Now in its fourth year, the exhibition showcases designs from bakers across the five boroughs and celebrates New York City’s creativity, community pride and holiday spirit.

Diwali Celebration at The Seaport Museum
November 11 | The Seaport, Manhattan
The Seaport Museum and The Culture Tree will host a free, all-day Diwali celebration featuring hands-on crafts, cultural activities, and festive performances aboard the historic 1885 tall ship Wavertree. Guests can decorate diya lamps, enjoy puppet storytime, and join an interactive dance workshop that highlights the traditions of the Hindu festival of lights. Visitors will also have free access to the Museum’s exhibitions and historic ships, making it a family-friendly celebration of culture and community.

The Rockettes 100th Anniversary: A Century of Sisterhood
November 13—January 5 | Midtown Manhattan
The Museum of Broadway debuts The Rockettes 100th Anniversary: A Century of Sisterhood, a new special exhibit honoring a century of the world-famous precision dance troupe. Visitors can explore the Rockettes’ evolution from Missouri to Radio City Music Hall through dazzling costumes by legendary Broadway designers and immersive photo ops inspired by the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.

Come Together in Color at the Color Factory New York
November 13—January 12 | Soho, Manhattan
This holiday season, Color Factory New York introduces the Confetti Experience, a joyful, limited-time installation filled with color, confetti, and photo-ready moments. Visitors can celebrate togetherness with friends and family, enjoy festive backdrops, and take advantage of the special “Come Together in Color” ticket bundle featuring group savings and exclusive gifts.

New York Transit Museum's Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Terminal
November 13 throughout the season | Midtown Manhattan
The New York Transit Museum’s Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Terminal brings the spirit of the season to life with a dazzling display of Lionel model trains, including the Polar Express and vintage subway cars. The miniature trains travel from Grand Central to the North Pole through a festive New York City landscape. This year’s exhibit also celebrates 40 years of MTA Arts & Design with vibrant new artwork by James Yang and Erin K. Robinson.

Pinkmas at Edge with the Museum of Ice Cream
November 14—January 5 | Hudson Yards, Manhattan
This holiday season, Edge at Hudson Yards and the Museum of Ice Cream join forces to bring Pinkmas to new heights. The limited-time experience transforms Edge’s indoor sky deck into a whimsical, candy-colored wonderland featuring life-size ice cream pints, playful photo ops, and seasonal treats—all set against panoramic views of New York City’s skyline.

Holiday Train Show
November 15-January 11 | Bedford Park, The Bronx
Now in its 34th year, the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show fills the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory with nearly 200 twinkling landmark replicas made from natural materials, as model trains weave through iconic New York City scenes and bridges. Visitors can also enjoy an illuminated outdoor mountainscape, plus special Holiday Train Nights offering a magical after-dark experience. This beloved tradition combines intricate artistry, seasonal cheer and family-friendly fun, making it a must-see winter attraction for all ages.

Seasons Greetings at Paleyland from The Paley Center for Media
November 22—January 4 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
Celebrate the holidays at The Paley Museum, just steps from Rockefeller Center, and explore PaleyLand, a five-floor immersive experience featuring Santa photos, complimentary hot chocolate, holiday train displays, crafts, seasonal screenings, and more.

The Origami Holiday Tree
November 24 throughout the holiday season | Upper West Side, Manhattan
An annual New York City tradition, the American Museum of Natural History’s beloved Origami Holiday Tree has been a popular feature of the holiday season at the Museum for decades. Showcasing over 1,000 hand-crafted origami models created by local, national and international artists, the delightfully decorated Origami Holiday Tree is a must-visit this season.

Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche
November 25–January 6 | Upper East Side, Manhattan
A New York City tradition, The Met’s Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche display showcases a beautifully adorned tree with a nativity scene at its base. The display features 18th-century Neapolitan figures, generously donated in 1964 by American artist and collector Loretta Hines Howard.

A Christmas Carol: The Manuscript
November 25–January 11 | Midtown Manhattan
Every holiday season the Morgan showcases Charles Dickens’s original manuscript of A Christmas Carol in J. Pierpont Morgan’s Library. Bound in red goatskin leather, the manuscript was originally given to Dickens’s solicitor, Thomas Mitton, before being acquired by Pierpont Morgan in the 1890s.

Annual Kwanzaa Celebration at Hostos Center
December 9 | South Bronx
Visit Hostos Center at its Annual Kwanzaa Celebration for an evening of music and dance that honors the spirit of unity, culture and community. Free admission makes this festive event accessible to all who wish to come together and celebrate.

Winter Haven
December 4–January 4 | Riverdale, The Bronx
Wave Hill’s Winter Haven celebrates the holidays with artisan markets, wreath-making workshops, ice-carving demonstrations and the tranquil beauty of the garden after hours. It offers a festive way to slow down, shop thoughtfully and enjoy the winter charm of the Bronx.

HOLIDAY SIGHTS & LIGHTS:

Christmas in New York with Romancing Manhattan Tours
November–December | Midtown Manhattan
Travelers can experience New York City’s holiday magic on a custom tour featuring a private guide on Fifth Avenue, a two-hour Rockefeller Center visit, and a sunset trip to the Top of the Rock. Optional add-ons include ice-skating with an instructor, a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall, premium Rockettes tickets and a luxury dinner, all curated by a concierge for an unforgettable Manhattan holiday.

Holiday Happenings at The Harry Potter Store
November 6–January 1 | Flatiron District, Manhattan
This holiday season, the Harry Potter Shop New York invites you to experience a spellbinding celebration of winter magic. Pick up a complimentary map and hunt for hidden letters on the store’s beautifully decorated trees—solve the puzzle to uncover a secret word and earn a magical prize! Then, cozy up with festive treats from the Butterbeer Bar and explore the enchanting Holiday Collection.

Holiday Under the Stars and Broadway Under the Stars at The Shops at Columbus Circle
November 11 throughout the holiday season | Midtown Manhattan
The Shops at Columbus Circle will sparkle this season with “Holiday Under the Stars,” a breathtaking display of 300,000 lights and 44 glowing stars that transform the center into a magical winter wonderland. Guests can also enjoy “Broadway Under the Stars,” a series of free performances from some of Broadway’s most celebrated shows, complete with intimate cast Q&As.

Shine Bright at Hudson Yards
November 17 throughout the holiday season | Hudson Yards, Manhattan
Hudson Yards kicks off the 2025 holiday season with its dazzling Shine Bright at Hudson Yards display, featuring more than two million lights, 725 decorated trees and illuminated hot air balloons, transforming the neighborhood and Vessel into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy festive shopping and dining, along with free photos with Santa, who will be greeting families throughout December.

Miracle on Madison Avenue Holiday Lighting Ceremony with Miss America 2026
November 18 | Upper East Side, Manhattan
Miss America 2026, Cassie Donegan, will kick off the season by lighting Madison Avenue’s holiday display of over 100 illuminated street trees between East 57th and East 86th Streets. Her appearance also marks the launch of the 39th Annual Miracle on Madison Avenue, where participating stores donate a portion of sales to support pediatric cancer programs at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Harlem Holiday Lights 2025
November 18 | Harlem, Manhattan
Harlem Holiday Lights transforms West 125th Street into a must-see spectacle, featuring illuminated floats, live music and festive performances that showcase the neighborhood’s vibrant culture. Visitors can join the community celebration and experience Harlem’s holiday spirit come to life.

Whiskey Wonderland at Great Jones Distilling Co.
November 20 throughout the holiday season | Noho, Manhattan
Great Jones Distilling Co. transforms its Noho space into Whiskey Wonderland, a bold holiday bar inspired by New York City’s festive spirit. Guests can enjoy New York–made whiskeys, seasonal cocktails and elevated bites amid shimmering copper tones, tinsel and velvet decor.

Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
November 21–January 4 | Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden returns this holiday season, transforming the Garden into a glittering winter trail and an enchanted forest in the heart of Brooklyn. Now in its fifth year, the event features dazzling light installations, reimagined art, music and special attractions, highlighting the Garden’s winter beauty.

Bronx Zoo
November 21–January 4 | Bronx Park, The Bronx
The Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights returns, transforming the park into a dazzling winter wonderland with millions of lights, wildlife lanterns and festive fun for all ages. Guests can enjoy new attractions like the Freeze Zone’s snow slides and illuminated ice throne, along with returning favorites including lantern trails, ice carving and the holiday train—making it a must-see New York City holiday tradition.

Saks Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Light Show Returns
November 24 | Midtown Manhattan
The Saks Fifth Avenue holiday light show returns with a reimagined state-of-the-art display featuring six flagship windows that bring New York City to life—from a snowy Central Park scene to a spectacularly decorated holiday tree. Additional windows highlight Your Story in Lights, celebrating personal holiday moments alongside stunning fashion, while the synchronized lights dance to a curated medley of festive music for a dazzling seasonal spectacle.

Holiday Lights & Movie Sites Tour with On Location Tours
November 28–December 31 | Manhattan
Visitors can experience New York City’s holiday magic with On Location Tours, discovering iconic landmarks and hidden spots seen in beloved holiday films such as Elf, Home Alone 2 and Scrooged. Departing from Columbus Circle, the tour features festive stops at Bloomingdale’s, Rockefeller Center and the famous ice-skating rink at Bryant Park.

29th Annual Central Park Holiday Lighting
December 4 | Central Park, Manhattan
Celebrate the holidays at Central Park’s 29th Annual Holiday Lighting, featuring caroling, hot cocoa, and festive activities for all ages. The evening will feature with a Santa meet and greet, seasonal cheer, and the enchanting illumination of a flotilla of sparkling trees on the Harlem Meer.

Holiday Celebrations with Bronx Little Italy
Throughout December | Belmont, The Bronx
Bronx Little Italy will welcome the festive season with a lineup of beloved community traditions, including the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6 in Ciccarone Park, live nativity scenes and neighborhood caroling with Santa sightings. Organized by the Belmont Business Improvement District, these events celebrate the neighborhood’s rich Italian heritage and offer opportunities to shop, dine and enjoy the old-world charm of Arthur Avenue. Visitors are also encouraged to pair their trip with nearby holiday attractions like the Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights and the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show.

Holiday Celebrations in Historic Richmond Town
Throughout December | Staten Island
Historic Richmond Town’s holiday season kicks off with a free tree lighting celebration on December 5, followed by “Christmas in Historic Richmond Town” December 6–7, with festive shopping, live history demonstrations and seasonal treats; Candlelight Tours on December 12–13, showcasing centuries of yuletide traditions; and a Holiday House tours on select dates throughout December.

FESTIVE HOTEL OFFERINGS:

NYC Hotel Week: Give the Gift of an NYC Hotel Stay this Winter
On sale from November 18 | Citywide
New York City Tourism + Conventions’ NYC Hotel Week^SM will return as part of NYC Winter Outing^SM. Give the gift of New York City with discounts on hotel stays at over 100 hotels. The program will go live in January 2026.

Holiday Happenings at Loews Regency New York
November-January | Upper East Side, Manhattan
Celebrate the holiday season in style at Loews Regency New York with festive decor, complimentary champagne and hot cocoa every Friday and Saturday in December, and holiday-inspired cocktails. As part of the new Fizz by Loews Hotels program, The Regency Bar & Grill will also serve holiday-inspired, soda-centric drinks. Guests can enjoy special seasonal menus for Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s, pamper themselves with beauty services at Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa and shop for unique gifts like the hotel’s hand-painted ornaments or a scented candle.

Festive Celebrations at Aman New York
November—December | Midtown Manhattan
Celebrate the holiday season at Aman New York with a range of festive experiences, from Thanksgiving and Christmas dining at Arva and Nama to a Winter Wonderland for all ages, seasonal workshops like the Full Moon Sound Bath and Circadian Wellness session, and a glamorous New Year’s Eve celebration with dinner, a Champagne toast, and a lively countdown in The Jazz Club. Guests can also enjoy classic seasonal treats, immersive entertainment, and restorative spa offerings throughout the holidays.

Holiday Cheer and the Suitest Season of All offering at The Plaza Hotel
November 12–January 5 | Midtown Manhattan
The Plaza Hotel offers a luxurious holiday experience with its Suitest Season of All package, featuring festive suite decor, a 7-foot holiday tree and seasonal amenities. Guests can also enjoy themed experiences like the Home Alone package, living out Kevin’s adventures, and savor holiday dining options such as Christmas Day Afternoon Tea and Champagne Bar specials. For a festive shopping experience, The Plaza Boutique offers exclusive holiday gifts and Eloise-themed items, all set against the hotel’s iconic Fifth Avenue backdrop.

Spend the Holidays in New York City at LUMA Hotel Times Square
Select dates from November 27–January 1 | Midtown Manhattan
LUMA Hotel Times Square rings in the holidays with special packages giving guests prime access to NYC’s iconic celebrations, from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the Times Square Ball Drop. Visitors can savor seasonal dining at celebrated Chef Charlie Palmer’s AperiBar, enjoy festive holiday dinners and keepsakes, and access 42nd Street for a front-row view of the New Year’s Eve ball drop.

Letters to Santa at Lotte New York Palace
December | Midtown Manhattan
Lotte New York Palace transforms into a festive holiday destination, featuring elegant decor, a towering courtyard Christmas tree and seasonal experiences for all ages. Guests can enjoy the Winter Bar at the Palace with hot chocolate, warm cocktails and sweet treats, or sip the North Pole Cocktail in the Gold Room. Families can send personalized postcards to Santa via the North Pole mailbox and receive a handwritten reply, meet Santa on weekends in the lobby, explore the Palace Holiday Suites decorated by Balsam Hill and admire the Gingerbread Palace, a stunning miniature replica crafted by the hotel’s pastry team.

New Year’s Eve Exclusive Offer at M Social Hotel Times Square
December 31 | Midtown Manhattan
Ring in the New Year at the Times Square Ball Drop with an exclusive package from M Social Hotel Times Square. Guests can enjoy 10 percent off rooms with full or partial views of the iconic ball and experience the excitement of the countdown up close.

The Ultimate New Year’s Eve Experience atop Times Square at The Knickerbocker
December 31 | Midtown Manhattan
Ring in the New Year at The Knickerbocker Hotel, just 150 feet below the Times Square Ball, with the closest live view available. Celebrate the City’s 400th anniversary and the hotel’s 120th with gourmet dining at Charlie Palmer, a premium open bar, live entertainment and a Dom Pérignon toast for an unforgettable night.

Ring in 2026 at New York Marriott Marquis
December 31 | Midtown Manhattan
Celebrate the holiday season at the New York Marriott Marquis with Santa-Approved rooms, daily meet and greets, carolers, festive treats and cookie-decorating workshops. The festivities lead up to the New Year’s Eve All Ages Celebration, featuring live entertainment, premium dining and prime views of the Times Square Ball Drop.

ICE-SKATING & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:

Festive shopping at New York City’s Holiday Markets
Throughout the holiday season | Manhattan & Brooklyn
Visitors can sip hot cocoa and bundle up to shop for the perfect holiday gifts at the city’s signature outdoor markets-Union Square Holiday Market, the Holiday Shops at Winter Village at Bryant Park and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market-or opt for indoor browsing at the Grand Central Holiday Fair, Brooklyn Flea and Chelsea Flea. On the Upper West Side the Grand Holiday Bazaar offers both indoor and outdoor shopping, while the Brooklyn Borough Hall Holiday Market in Downtown Brooklyn features 100 vendors showcasing locally made goods.

Urbanspace Holiday Market Special Offerings
Throughout the holiday season | Manhattan
Urbanspace’s beloved holiday markets return to New York City this season, transforming booths in Bryant Park, Herald Square, Union Square and Columbus Circle into festive winter wonderlands filled with local artisans, food vendors and handcrafted gifts. New this year are refreshed designs, interactive digital maps and the debut of Herald Haus & Bar, a cozy lodge-style space offering seasonal food, festive drinks and warm seating at Macy’s Holiday Square—enhancing the holiday shopping experience across the City.

Wollman Rink
October–March | Central Park, Manhattan
Wollman Rink’s ice-skating season returns this October with a landmark celebration of 75 years. A quintessential New York City winter tradition, the rink has welcomed generations of locals and visitors to skate against Manhattan’s iconic skyline. This season Wollman Rink continues its commitment to accessibility through partnerships with IDNYC, Culture Pass and the Wollman Rink Access Program, while also offering lessons through the Wollman Rink Skate School. Special programming, family-friendly activities and celebratory events will be announced throughout the winter in honor of its 75th season.

The Rink at Bryant Park
Late October–March 3 | Midtown Manhattan
NYC’s beloved Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park invites visitors to enjoy the City’s largest free-admission ice-skating rink, a vibrant holiday market with over 180 shops and a cozy rinkside bar and food hall at The Lodge. Winter Village typically opens in late October and remains open daily through early March, with new events and things to do in January and February including Bumper Cars on Ice.

Macy's Holiday Square
November 1–January 3 | Midtown Manhattan
Now in its second year, Herald Square transforms into a festive destination as Macy’s Holiday Square returns with an expanded market featuring over 30 curated local vendors, handcrafted gifts, customizable items and specialty treats. Inside the flagship store, visitors can explore unique shopping experiences that capture the creativity and magic of New York City during the holidays.

Ice-Skating Season at Lakeside in Prospect Park
November 1 throughout the holiday season | Prospect Park, Brooklyn
This holiday season, visitors can glide across the ice at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park, home to both covered and open-air rinks with stunning lake views. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy classic winter fun—from skating and hockey to cozying up with seasonal treats at the Duck Island Cafe & Bar.

Seasonal Offerings from Team Dumbo
November 8 throughout the holiday season | Dumbo, Brooklyn
This season, Dumbo is home to several holiday experiences, featuring ice-skating at Roebling Rink with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, whimsical elephant-themed video projections across six neighborhood sites, and festive decor, including the iconic construction cone tree. Visitors can shop two holiday markets—the Brooklyn Flea in the Dumbo Archway and FAD Market at Empire Stores—browse over 40 local art studios, send letters to Santa from a themed mailbox and enjoy seasonal events like the annual tree lighting, holiday bar crawl and live performances, making it a full winter wonderland experience.

Grand Opening of Gottesman Rink at The Davis Center, Central Park
November 15—March 8 | Central Park, Manhattan
This holiday season, glide into winter fun at the new Gottesman Rink at the Davis Center, a year-round destination for skating, music, and community in Central Park’s north end. Surrounded by scenic views of the Harlem Meer, visitors can enjoy festive ice skating and seasonal activities for all ages throughout the holidays.

Classic Harbor Line Holiday-Themed Cruises
November 17 throughout the holiday season | Manhattan
Sail into the holiday season aboard Classic Harbor Line’s elegant 1920s-style yachts, taking in sweeping views of the New York City skyline while enjoying complimentary hot cocoa, sweet treats and live entertainment. Highlights include Cocoa & Carols Cruises, featuring “Broadway-caliber” musicians. From holiday brunches and festive cruises with carols to a dazzling New Year’s Eve celebration with fireworks, each voyage offers a unique holiday experience on the water, complete with unforgettable views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

City Cruises Holiday-Themed Cruises Aboard the
November 27–January 1 | Manhattan
Celebrate the holidays on the water with festive dining cruises in New York City on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s, complete with live entertainment. Guests can enjoy seasonal décor, gourmet meals and stunning city views from climate-controlled interior decks as the yachts glide along the East and Hudson Rivers. New Year’s Eve cruises also feature a fireworks display and an open bar.

Williamsburg Winter Village
Every Weekend in December | Williamsburg, Brooklyn
The Williamsburg Winter Village offers a festive holiday experience in Brooklyn’s Banker Street backyard, featuring artisan market stalls, seasonal food and drinks, and live weekend entertainment. Guests can enjoy a cozy, twinkling village atmosphere perfect for celebrating the season. Tickets must be reserved in advance to attend the inaugural winter event.

New Year's Eve Fireworks in Prospect Park
December 31–January 1 | Prospect Park, Brooklyn
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Prospect Park’s Grand Army Plaza with Brooklyn’s biggest fireworks display, presented by Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Prospect Park Alliance. The free event features live music by Quintessential Playlist leading up to a dazzling midnight fireworks show—a beloved 45-year Brooklyn tradition.

NYRR Midnight Run in Central Park
December 31–January 1 | Midtown Manhattan
Kick off 2026 with the NYRR Midnight Run, welcoming the new year with energy and excitement. As 2025 draws to a close, the countdown starts at 11:59 pm, and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight signals the start of the four-mile race.

Coney Island Polar Plunge
January 1 | Coney Island, Brooklyn
Every January 1 the Polar Bear Club and daring participants dive into the icy waters at Coney Island. Spectators are welcome to watch as hundreds of thrill-seekers plunge into the freezing Atlantic Ocean. The event is free to attend, though participants are encouraged to make donations to support local community organizations in place of an entry fee.

About New York City Tourism + Conventions

New York City Tourism + Conventions is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) and convention and visitors bureau (CVB) for the five boroughs of New York City. Our mission is to invite the world and energize the City, building equitable, sustainable economic prosperity and community through tourism for the mutual benefit of residents, businesses and visitors. For all there is to do and see in New York City, visit nyctourism.com.