Invisible link to canonical for Microformats

Last updated: November 11, 2024

Make the most of the holiday season in Washington Heights with our event guide. From Washington Heights old-timers to fresh faces, this guide ensures a holiday experience to remember.

Popular Events: One of the highlights of the season is the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a stunning display that attracts visitors from all over. Alongside this, the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink offers a picturesque spot for skating, creating memories under the twinkling lights. And the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring a lively performance by the famed Rockettes. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.

Washington Heights Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Iconic, 80-foot Norway spruce with 50,000 LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski crystal star.

Description:

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is an iconic symbol of the holiday season, featuring over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski crystal star. This towering Norway spruce, typically measuring over 80 feet tall, is meticulously decorated and serves as a beacon of holiday cheer in Midtown Manhattan.

Where: New York | More Info: Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Unique holiday light display tour with photo opportunities.

Description:

Embark on a festive horse-drawn carriage ride through New York City, featuring stunning holiday light displays along Fifth Avenue, including Cartier, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Tiffany's. Pass by the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and enjoy a socially-distanced, open-air experience with your loved ones.

Where: New York | More Info: Christmas Horse Carriage Ride

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Interactive holiday window displays with a toy workshop and three-dimensional camera.

Description:

Macy's Herald Square features beautifully decorated holiday windows showcasing the heartwarming story of Tip Toe, a reindeer who couldn't fly, with interactive elements like a toy workshop and three-dimensional camera.

Where: New York | More Info: Decorated Shop Windows

Event Organizer?

Washington Heights Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

European-inspired holiday market with artisanal vendors.

Description:

The Bryant Park Holiday Shops feature an open-air market curated by Urbanspace Markets, showcasing local crafts, artisan provisions, and exquisite gifts from around the world. Located in custom-designed, "jewel box" kiosks along Bryant Park's allées, plazas, and terraces.

Where: New York | More Info: Bryant Park Holiday Shops

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Largest holiday market in NYC with over 200 vendors.

Description:

Union Square Holiday Market is a premier holiday destination in NYC, featuring the city's largest Greenmarket with 150+ vendors, dozens of award-winning restaurants, and unique gifts from local craftsmen and artists. The market offers a curated Local Gift Guide and an interactive Holiday Map to help you find the best shopping and dining experiences.

Where: New York | More Info: Union Square Holiday Market

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

European-style holiday market with diverse artisanal goods and food.

Description:

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a popular holiday event in New York City, featuring over 100 artisans and designers selling unique gifts, handmade jewelry, art, and home goods. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food options, including bureks, tacos, fancy doughnuts, and bratwurst, amidst a European-inspired setting.

Where: New York | More Info: Columbus Circle Holiday Market

Event Organizer?

Washington Heights Holiday Shows and Entertainment

What to Expect:

Iconic ice skating experience under the Christmas Tree.

Description:

Ice skating under the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a quintessential New York City winter activity. The Rink at Rockefeller Center offers a perfect scene for every occasion, including special events and Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill.

Where: New York | More Info: Rockefeller Center Ice Rink

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

High-kicking precision dance routines with live animals and special effects.

Description:

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an annual holiday performance featuring the iconic Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. The show includes festive dance, music, and comedy, with iconic scenes like "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and "The Living Nativity." It boasts a cast of around 140 performers and incorporates special effects, snow machines, and guest performers.

Where: New York | More Info: Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

World-class ballet with elaborate sets and costumes.

Description:

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a timeless ballet featuring Tschaikovsky’s melodies, intricate choreography, and elaborate sets and costumes. The production brings to life the story of young Marie as she navigates a battle between toy soldiers and mischievous mice, culminating in the enchanting Land of Sweets. The entire company, including 90 dancers, 62 musicians, and over 125 children, comes together to create a spectacular performance.

Where: New York | More Info: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

Event Organizer?

Washington Heights Other Holiday Activities

What to Expect:

Live holiday music and complimentary hot cocoa.

Description:

Embark on a 1.5-hour holiday cruise aboard Yacht Manhattan, featuring live holiday music, festive decorations, and complimentary hot cocoa, beer, wine, or champagne. Enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and iconic landmarks while savoring holiday treats.

Where: New York | More Info: Festive Christmas Cruise

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

High-energy football games with a dedicated fan base.

Description:

The New York Giants are a professional American football team based in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They compete in the National Football Conference (NFC) East division of the National Football League (NFL). The team has a rich history, including notable victories in Super Bowl XXI and a strong roster featuring players like Daniel Jones, Darius Slayton, and Dexter Lawrence.

Where: East Rutherford | More Info: New York Giants American Football

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Elite ice hockey team with a storied history and talented roster.

Description:

The New York Rangers are a professional ice hockey team competing in the National Hockey League. Known for their rich history and dedicated fan base, the team features a roster of talented players including Kaapo Kakko, Chris Kreider, and Mika Zibanejad. The Rangers are committed to excellence both on and off the ice, fostering a strong community through their various programs and initiatives.

Where: New York | More Info: NY Rangers Hockey

Event Organizer?

Washington Heights Gift Guide

Explore Gift Ideas

Washington Heights Holiday News

Latest Updates and Events

View News

Find Other Markets

Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!

Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!