Last updated: November 11, 2024
Looking forward to festive cheer in Harlem? Our guide has everything you need to know! Be you a local or a traveler, our guide will help you uncover the holiday charms of Harlem.
Popular events during the holiday season include the dazzling Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, where locals and visitors gather to embrace the spirit of the season. Another highlight is the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights, featuring enchanting light displays and festive wildlife experiences. And the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing a magical performance that captures the essence of Christmas. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Iconic tree lighting ceremony with live performances and elaborate decorations.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting features a towering 80-foot Norway Spruce adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star. The event includes live performances and is broadcast annually on NBC.
Where: New York | More Info: Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
Wildlife-themed LED displays and interactive experiences.
The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights features millions of lights and hundreds of wildlife lanterns across seven trails, showcasing nearly 100 animal and plant species. Interactive experiences include glowing walls, illuminated trees, and shimmering flowers. The event also includes family-friendly entertainment, seasonal treats, and classic holiday music.
Where: Bronx | More Info: Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Elaborate, synchronized holiday light displays in a residential neighborhood.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights is a renowned holiday attraction in Brooklyn, featuring over 100 elaborately decorated homes with unique themes and synchronized displays.
Where: Brooklyn | More Info: Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Dazzling lights and festive activities.
Central Park Holiday Lighting features a spectacular holiday light display at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, including caroling on the Plaza, meeting Santa, and a grand finale of illuminated Christmas trees on the Harlem Meer.
Where: New York | More Info: Central Park Holiday Lighting
Free-admission ice skating with high-quality rental skates.
Bank of America Bryant Park Winter Village offers free-admission ice skating, over 170 holiday shops, and a cozy Lodge with festive food and drinks. The event features a 17,000-square-foot ice rink, skate aids for children, and private igloos for intimate gatherings.
Where: New York | More Info: Bank of America Bryant Park Winter Village
European flair with diverse artisanal goods.
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a bustling outdoor market at the southwest corner of Central Park, featuring over 100 artisans and designers selling unique gifts, special foods, handmade jewelry, art, and home goods. Enjoy a variety of treats like bureks, tacos, fancy doughnuts, and bratwurst.
Where: New York | More Info: Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Largest holiday market in the city with 150+ vendors.
The Union Square Holiday Market is a premier destination for holiday shopping and dining, featuring 150 vendors, dozens of award-winning restaurants, and a curated Local Gift Guide to find the best gifts from local businesses.
Where: New York | More Info: Union Square Holiday Market
Diverse selection of street foods and local products.
The Harlem Night Market at La Marqueta offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of delicious street foods and unique, trendy products from local makers, including handmade crafts and stylish fashions.
Where: New York | More Info: Harlem Night Market at La Marqueta
Synchronized precision dance routines with elaborate special effects.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a world-renowned holiday show featuring the iconic Radio City Rockettes. The event includes intricate choreography, high-kicking precision, and special effects like snow machines and confetti. It blends classic numbers with innovative technology, creating an immersive experience that showcases the Rockettes' exceptional talent and skill.
Where: New York | More Info: Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Family-friendly train ride with caroling and on-board entertainment.
Relive the classic story of The Polar Express aboard a real train, served hot chocolate and cookies by dancing chefs, and receive a silver sleigh bell as a first gift of Christmas.
Where: New York | More Info: Hot Chocolate Rides
Ecological synthetic ice skating rink with panoramic city views.
Step into Santa's headquarters at Pier 17, where you can skate on Manhattan's only rooftop rink, explore Santa's famous sleigh, and cozy up by the fireplace. Enjoy seasonal treats and themed drinks while taking in breathtaking city skyline views.
Where: New York | More Info: Santa Clauses Winter Wonderland
Community-built lanterns celebrating New York's visual culture.
Morningside Lights is a community-driven event featuring 50 handmade lanterns that pay tribute to 100 years of New York's rich and radical visual culture. The procession through Morningside Park and Columbia University's campus showcases transformative art, reminding us of the diverse ways seeing can enrich one space.
Where: New York | More Info: 116th Street Light Up
Community ice skating with a new light installation.
Ice skating rink at Uptown Grand Central Plaza offers a community gathering spot for winter fun with a new light installation called Uptown Flash.
Where: New York | More Info: Ice Skating Rink at Uptown Grand Central Plaza
