Christmas time in New York is always sure to be a magical experience. From the Rockefeller Christmas tree-lighting to bar hopping to holiday shows, NYC offers holiday fun for everyone. The holiday season in New York lasts from November to New Year’s Eve with plenty of Christmas events in between.
From local New Yorkers to out-of-town guests, GO’s holiday guide in New York City is a great way to find the best Christmas activities in the city.
Here are just a few of our favorite holiday events throughout New York:
Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off – November 11- January 8, 2023
Local bakers recreate famous New York neighborhoods and landmarks in gingerbread and candy at the Museum of the City of New York in Manhattan. Past creations include the Flatiron Building and the Staten Island Ferry.
Amaze Light Festival – November 23 – January 8, 2023
The Citi Field parking lot is transformed into the biggest light show in the country. The Amaze Light Festival is a story-driven experience with singers, dancers, and a dazzling light display. Sections include the North Pole, Land of Sweets, and Whimsical Forest.
New York Botanical Garden Glow – November 18- January 14, 2023
The New York Botanical Garden offers even more light displays than last year. These picture perfect LED installations offer the best holiday photo opps in the city. It’s also perfectly paired with the Holiday Train Show, which features 25 model trains, a half-mile track, and 190 miniature NYC landmarks.
Santaland at Macy’s Herald Square – November 25- December 24
Macy’s Santaland is one of the best and most popular Santa experiences in the country (be sure to make a reservation up to 5 days in advance if you want to see the big guy). The store features a 13,000-square-foot North Pole Christmas village with elves, enchanted forest, and train display.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights – November 18-Sunday, January 8, 2023
There’s nothing quite like visiting the zoo after dark! The Bronx Zoo has beautiful lanterns, twinkling tunnels, a spectacular animated tree, holiday train, and costumed stilt walkers. Be sure not to miss the nightly ice carving demonstrations.
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree
There’s no more recognizable symbol of the holiday season than the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. This year’s Norway spruce comes in at 82 feet and weighs 14 tons! The iconic Rink at Rockefeller Center is also one of the best ice-skating rinks in NYC.
New York City Ballet: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker – Until December 31
The Nutcracker ballet is favorite for families all over the world and the New York City Ballet provides breathtaking visuals. Favorites include the onstage blizzard, Christmas tree that grows from 12 to 40 feet. It’s a sight to behold.
Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes – Until January 2, 2023
The Christmas Spectacular is a rite of passage in New York City. This 90-minute show features more than 140 performers with singing, humor, and, of course, the world famous Radio City Rockettes.
No matter where you are headed this Christmas, you can get there with GO Airlink NYC. GO Airlink NYC offers airport shuttle services to/from JFK, LGA, and Newark. Or reserve a private car service for Christmas events all over the city. Whether you’re visiting New York or just need a ride to a special event this year, you can count on GO Airlink NYC this holiday season.