Manhattan Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Ring in the holiday season with the beloved annual tradition of Big Band Holidays, featuring the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Under the direction of Chris Crenshaw, the orchestra brings new life to classic holiday tunes, accompanied by the dynamic vocals of Shenel Johns and Kate Kortum. This spectacular performance...

Step into a world of holiday enchantment with George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. This iconic ballet brings Tchaikovsky's magical score to life with breathtaking choreography, sumptuous costumes, and spectacular sets. Witness the famous growing Christmas tree, a blizzard of snowflakes, and a cast of over 200 performers, including children from the...

Rediscover the heartwarming holiday classic "Elf" like never before. The New York Philharmonic performs John Debney's enchanting score live to the film on the big screen. Follow Buddy the Elf's hilarious and touching journey from the North Pole to New York City in this magical cinematic and symphonic experience.

Immerse yourself in the holiday tradition with Handel's Messiah, performed by the New York Philharmonic. This classic oratorio, known for its dramatic flair and soaring vocal expressions, features a stunning cast of soloists and the acclaimed Musica Sacra choir, all under the baton of Baroque specialist Ton Koopman. Experience the...

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the legendary Rockettes, returns to celebrate its 100th anniversary. This iconic holiday show promises an unforgettable experience with dazzling choreography, festive music, and breathtaking stagecraft. Witness the precision and magic of the Rockettes as they bring classic Christmas tales and holiday cheer to life...

Experience the enchantment of the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, celebrating its 100th anniversary. This iconic holiday show promises an unforgettable journey filled with dazzling performances and cherished traditions. Perfect for families and a must-see during the festive season.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the celebrated Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli graces the stage at the iconic Madison Square Garden. His return promises a night filled with breathtaking performances and timeless melodies that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Step back in time to a 1946 radio studio for a live broadcast of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol.' This charming adaptation brings the beloved holiday classic to life with a small cast portraying numerous characters, enhanced by authentic vintage commercials and captivating live sound effects. It's a heartwarming and...

This beloved musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' returns for its 17th smash year. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge's transformative journey as he is visited by four ghosts, revealing his past, present, and future. Will he find the holiday spirit in time? Discover the magic of this heartwarming production.

Celebrate the holiday season with the 15th Annual Christmas in New York concert. This special event features the talents of TaRanda Greene, Charles Billingsley, RamCorps, and the American Festival Choir. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a night of uplifting holiday music.

Experience the magic of Nimbus Dance's Jersey Nutcracker, a unique holiday performance set to Tchaikovsky's score. This adaptation features two Jersey kids on a city adventure, filled with battles, friendship, and exquisite dancing. Dazzling sets and animated projections by local artists create a vibrant backdrop, bringing classic New Jersey landscapes...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings. This enchanting concert features the Highline String Quartet performing a festive program of beloved Christmas carols, all illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holidays.

Prepare for a magical holiday kickoff as America's favorite power-violinist, Lindsey Stirling, graces the stage with 'The Snow Waltz Tour.' Experience her signature blend of virtuosic violin performance, captivating dance, and dazzling spectacle. Stirling will ring in the season with beloved songs from her Christmas album, 'Snow Waltz,' promising a...

Step back in time to experience Charles Dickens' beloved tale, 'A Christmas Carol,' as performed by Michael Muldoon, embodying Dickens himself. This captivating one-hour show, set within the beautifully decorated art gallery of Lyndhurst Mansion, brings Ebenezer Scrooge and his iconic journey to life. It's a chance to witness a...

Awaken your holiday spirit with a joyous concert by Collective Brass at the historic Lyndhurst Mansion. They will perform seasonal favorites, including selections from The Nutcracker, new arrangements of ancient carols, and a rousing rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus. This festive event is perfect for the whole family and promises...

For 30 years, Rob Mathes has kicked off the holiday season with a spectacular concert. This high-energy event features Mathes, his all-star band, and a chorus, delivering a unique blend of rock, jazz, and blues with fresh takes on holiday classics and original compositions. It's a cherished local tradition that...

Get ready for a magical evening with Postmodern Jukebox's 'Magic, Moonlight & Mistletoe' tour. This talented troupe reimagines today's biggest hits in classic vintage styles, from swing to doo-wop. Expect a dazzling variety show filled with familiar songs, holiday cheer, and incredible performances. Dress in your vintage best for a...

Embark on a magical 50-minute carriage ride through Central Park and along the dazzling Fifth Avenue. Witness the most beautifully illuminated shops in NYC, including iconic displays from Cartier, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany's. The highlight is a stop at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a breathtaking spectacle of lights and...

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a quintessential New York holiday tradition. Witness the spectacular illumination of the 75-foot Norway Spruce, adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and a dazzling Swarovski star. The tree, arriving from East Greenbush, New York, will be a beacon of festive cheer throughout...

Immerse yourself in the enchanting holiday spirit of New York City by exploring its world-renowned Christmas window displays. From the avant-garde designs of Bergdorf Goodman to the festive storytelling at Macy's and the dazzling light show at Saks Fifth Avenue, these displays transform the city into a winter wonderland. Don't...

Experience the dazzling spectacle of Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, a world-famous holiday tradition. They offer guided walking tours and convenient bus tours departing from Manhattan, allowing you to immerse yourself in the most spectacular residential Christmas decorations in Brooklyn. Witness homes adorned with elaborate lights and festive displays that create...

Experience the enchanting beauty of Brooklyn's Christmas lights on this festive bus tour. Journey through Dyker Heights, a neighborhood renowned for its dazzling, competitive holiday displays featured on TLC. Learn the fascinating history and traditions behind these spectacular decorations, including stories of elaborate rivalries and resident codes. This unforgettable, rain-or-shine...

Dasher's Lightshow returns to Newark for its second season, transforming the Newark Moonlight Cinema into a winter wonderland. This drive-through experience invites visitors to immerse themselves in a spectacular display of twinkling lights synchronized to beloved holiday music. It's a magical journey perfect for creating lasting memories with friends and...

Experience the magic of Westchester's Winter Wonderland, a spectacular drive-thru holiday light extravaganza. Journey through 1.2 miles of dazzling lights from your car, enhanced by the free Otocast app that plays festive music and stories. It's an affordable and memorable way for the whole family to celebrate the holiday season...

Embark on a magical journey through the Magic of Lights, a spectacular drive-through holiday spectacle at the PNC Bank Arts Center. This dazzling experience showcases beloved holiday scenes and characters brought to life with cutting-edge LED technology and vibrant digital animations. From the comfort of your vehicle, wind through a...

Experience the quintessential New York City holiday season at The Plaza Hotel, where Central Park meets Fifth Avenue. Indulge in festive dining, including special holiday teas and private dining options. Shop for unique gifts at The Plaza Boutique or online, and immerse yourself in the hotel's spectacular seasonal decorations. Don't...

Experience the magic of the holidays on Fifth Avenue and around Rockefeller Center with expanded car-free Open Streets. This popular program returns with even more pedestrian space, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, admire iconic window displays, and enjoy live entertainment on select Sundays. It's a...

Experience the magic of the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, a cherished New York City tradition. This vibrant market brings together over 100 artisans and designers, offering a dazzling array of unique gifts, from handmade jewelry and art to home goods. Indulge in a global culinary journey with festive food options...

Discover the magic of the NRNY Holiday Market, a festive celebration in New Rochelle. This vibrant market promises a delightful experience with unique artisan crafts, seasonal treats, and a cheerful holiday atmosphere. It's the perfect place to find special gifts and soak in the festive spirit.

Step into a charming indoor winter village at the 5th Annual New Rochelle Holiday Market. Discover unique gifts and artisanal products from local makers and businesses, all while soaking in the festive holiday spirit. This event offers a delightful shopping experience in the heart of downtown New Rochelle.

Step into Santa's Secret, a hidden speakeasy experience where holiday cheer meets playful mischief. This immersive event features 8 dazzling holiday installations, a live band setting a festive mood, and a captivating variety show with cabaret and burlesque acts. Sip on expertly crafted Christmas cocktails and prepare for a night...

Experience the magic of the holidays at Rockefeller Center with a private Après Skate Chalet. This exclusive rental offers a cozy 40-minute escape for up to six guests, complete with digital photos and stunning views. Enjoy delicious food and drinks available for purchase, and take advantage of included Top of...

Experience the warmth of community at Goddard Riverside's Holiday Meals. This cherished tradition offers festive Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, served both in their dining room and delivered to neighbors in need. Join them in celebrating the season of giving and togetherness.

Hoboken ignites with an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration, offering an All Access Party Pass for exclusive entry to the city's hottest events. This pass grants access to multiple venues, including The Ainsworth and The Lola, featuring open bars, live DJ performances, and a midnight toast. Prepare for a night...

The Hoboken Christmas Exchange aims to bring the joy of Christmas to every child in the city. This heartwarming event offers multiple ways to get involved, whether by applying to receive gifts, purchasing presents for children, or volunteering time to help with gift distribution. It's a community-driven initiative focused on...

Experience the magic of the holiday season in New York City with the 15th Annual Christmas in New York tour. This 5-day, 4-night event features a major concert at Carnegie Hall and worship at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. Explore iconic landmarks like Times Square and Central Park, enjoy a harbor cruise,...

Discover the creativity of artists and artisans at the 43rd Annual Wreath Interpretations Exhibition. This unique event showcases over 30 imaginative and unconventional wreaths, each a testament to artistic ingenuity and unexpected materials. From plastic rollers to faux fireworks, these handcrafted decorations offer a fresh perspective on holiday traditions. Attend...

Step into a world of holiday magic at Tiffany & Co.'s iconic New York City flagship store. Their legendary windows, a tradition since 1837, come alive each November with fantastical displays. Inspired by the allure captured in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' these artistic creations blend sculpture, lighting, and pure fantasy, drawing...

Join in a beloved Christmas Eve tradition with A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This service beautifully weaves together scripture readings with classic carols and hymns, performed by the acclaimed Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys. Experience the solemn procession and the symbolic lighting of the first candle,...

Experience the iconic New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square, the symbolic center of New York City. Witness the legendary Ball Drop, add your wishes to the confetti, and enjoy live entertainment. This global tradition unites millions in a joyous farewell to the past year and a hopeful embrace of...

Embark on a magical Christmas morning tour through Midtown Manhattan, showcasing iconic holiday sights like Rockefeller Center and dazzling 5th Avenue window displays. The experience culminates with exclusive early access and a reserved table at the renowned Papillon Christmas Restaurant, offering an optional curated holiday lunch.

The Park Avenue Tree Lighting is a cherished annual tradition that illuminates the malls between 54th and 97th Streets. Originally started in 1945 to honor World War II veterans, the event now stands as a symbol of peace. The dazzling display features 104 fir trees, creating a festive and poignant...

Kick off the holiday season at the Hudson River Museum with a festive weekend packed with activities for all ages. Immerse yourself in Victorian splendor with guided tours of the beautifully decorated Glenview historic home. Enjoy captivating planetarium shows, engaging family art and science workshops, and enchanting storytelling sessions.

Spark creativity this holiday season at the Hudson River Museum's Family Science Workshop. Participants will craft unique holiday ornaments inspired by stellar nebulae, the cosmic nurseries where stars are born. Design your own illuminated model of these celestial wonders or let your imagination soar to new galaxies.

Ridgewood Guild's Winterfest is a beloved annual event offering a magical holiday experience for the entire family. Attendees can enjoy live music, captivating ice sculptures, and heartwarming storytelling. Festive treats like hot chocolate, cookies, and candy canes are provided, and Santa Claus himself will be present for photos. Special activities...

Join the festive 'Downtown for the Holidays' celebration in Ridgewood, NJ, featuring a special visit from Santa Claus and his elves. They will travel along Ridgewood Avenue in a Santa Cart, stopping for greetings, before heading to the tree lighting ceremony. Children can explore emergency vehicles during the 'Trucks on...

Embark on a magical journey aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, bringing the beloved holiday classic to life. Families will be whisked away on a festive train adventure to meet Santa Claus. Enjoy hot chocolate and treats served by dancing chefs while listening to the classic story read aloud. Each...

Get ready to jingle all the way at the Jingle Bell Run, a festive 5K race for charity supporting the Arthritis Foundation. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday gear while running or walking to help spread joy and make strides toward a cure. This event celebrates four decades...