Long Island City Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Long Island City and surrounding areas
Long Island City kicks off Christmas 2025 with bright Holiday lights along the East River esplanade and views of the Midtown skyline near Gantry Plaza State Park. The season brings family fun and things to do including winter festivals, Santa visits at neighborhood venues, and festive performances across cultural hubs like Socrates Sculpture Park. Enjoy seasonal markets, cozy holiday activities, and waterfront strolls that showcase LICβs energetic arts scene and skyline-lit celebrations for all ages.
Find the best Long Island City Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Shows
20 events100th anniversary of the iconic Christmas Spectacular
Christmas Markets
18 eventsIconic luxury hotel holiday experience
Christmas Parties
13 eventsChristmas Day brunch cruise with skyline views and bottomless mimosas.
Christmas Lights
11 eventsIconic Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Rockefeller Center
Christmas Activities
37 eventsInternational competition celebrating Polish nativity scene tradition.
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
(New York)
Iconic Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Rockefeller Center
-
Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
(New York)
100th anniversary of the iconic Christmas Spectacular
-
Holidays at The Plaza
(New York)
Iconic luxury hotel holiday experience
-
Times Square New Year's Eve 2025
(New York)
Iconic New Year's Eve Ball Drop ceremony
-
Andrea Bocelli in Concert
(New York)
Live performance by acclaimed Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli.
-
Macy's Santaland
(New York)
Iconic holiday celebrations and Santa visits at Macy's stores.
Events Happening Soon (3)
Long Island City Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Long Island City
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Long Island City!
Long Island City Christmas FAQ
The biggest events include neighborhood light displays, seasonal markets, and community gatherings in parks and public spaces. These events draw locals and visitors each December.
Long Island City is known for its community-driven holiday spirit, with neighborhood light tours and local markets that reflect the areaβs diverse culture.
Residential streets and parks throughout Long Island City offer some of the best displays, with many homes and community spaces joining in the festive tradition.
Seasonal markets and pop-ups are often held in parks, community centers, and public plazas. Local event calendars list the latest vendor stalls and artisan markets.
Free activities include walking through neighborhood light displays, visiting local parks, and attending community markets. Many events are open to all and require no admission.
Families enjoy visiting light displays, seasonal markets, and parks with holiday activities. Many events offer crafts, treats, and entertainment for children.