New York City during the holiday season is pure magic. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and dazzling displays transform the Big Apple. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local ready to soak in the Christmas cheer, NYC’s holiday lights, decorations and markets offer something for everyone. Here’s where to find the best of the best this festive season!
Maybe it’s because I’m a millennial, raised on movies like Home Alone, but I have always wanted to spend the holidays in New York City. I had romantic visions of ice skating in Central Park and watching the Rockefeller tree lit up. I wanted to stay at the Plaza Hotel and see the NYC Ballet perform the Nutcracker.
Well it only took me to age 40, but I finally got to spend some of the holiday season in New York City and I was not at all let down! I busied myself chasing NYC’s holiday lights, Christmas trees, oversized decorations, window displays, winter markets and department store displays. It set me up for the most magical Christmas I can remember in years. Here’s where to find the top
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Table of contents
Where to find holiday lights in New York City
Manhattan holiday lights and decorations
1. Rockefeller Center
The iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree, located among the tourist sights of Midtown Manhattan, is a good place to start. Continuing a tradition begun in 1933, a massive Norway Spruce will tower over Rockefeller Center’s outdoor ice rink.
The Rockefeller tree is adorned with over 50,000 multi-hued lights and topped by a sparkling Swarovski crystal -encrusted star. While you’re there, enjoy the skating rink or snap a selfie with the beautifully lit angels along the Promenade.
The tree is ceremoniously lit for the first time on November 29, 2024 and will remain until January 13, 2025. In between, it will be lit daily from 5am-midnight, except for Christmas Eve when it is lit for a full 24-hours, and New Year’s Eve when it goes dark at 9pm.
2. Fifth Avenue Windows
Window shopping takes on a new meaning during the holidays. Department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Macy’s go all out with their elaborate, themed window displays. You’ll find many of these displays along the sidewalks of 5th Avenue, where the big, historic department stores have their flagship locations. Macy’s is the outlier, you’ll need to travel to Herald Square for their window display.
Note, any information recommending Saks Fifth Avenue’s lighting display, is out of date. The 2024 lighting show was cancelled, but the windows will still be decorated.
3. The Plaza Hotel
Make all your Home Alone dreams come true in the lobby of The Plaza Hotel, also on Fifth Avenue. Inside you’ll find a stand of Christmas trees, decorated with a very traditional flair and lots of lights. While you’re there, why not stay for a holiday-themed afternoon tea in the Palm Court – my favourite way to enjoy The Plaza. The Plaza’s holiday decorations are up the week of Thanksgiving.
4. Lotte New York Palace
Lotte New York Palace is another one of the key hotels to see fabulous holiday lights and decorations in New York City. Inside there are more decorations. An impressive gingerbread replica of the hotel stands in the lobby and adults can treat themselves to a hot chocolate or hot buttered rum in The Winter Bar.
The hotel’s stunning Christmas tree and decorations are located in an outdoor courtyard, easily accessible from Madison Avenue. The tree is lit up the week before Thanksgiving.
5. The Peninsula Hotel
If you are looking for some more indoor holiday décor, hit up the luxurious Peninsula Hotel. The lobby houses another magnificent Christmas tree framed by its stunning staircases, adorned with festive trappings.
6. Shine On at Hudson Yards
If you planning a wander down the High Line, stop in at Hudson Yards for their incredible 2-million light display entitled “Shine Bright”. With floating Christmas trees and hot air balloons to boot.
The display is active from November 25, 2024 to January 5, 2025. Though Hudson Yards is fully of high-end retailers, the mall and its lights are public access – perfect if you’re on a budget. The mall is open Monday to Saturday 10am-8pm and Sunday 11am-7pm.
7. Columbus Circle “Holiday Under the Stars”
The Shops at Columbus Circle have expanded their former holiday lights. With more than 300,000 lights, 44 giant star lanterns and 3000-ft of garlands, the Great Room is transformed! Lights dance to music every 30-minutes from 5pm to midnight. Add performances such as Broadway Under the Stars and Bohemian Winter Rendezvous, and a gingerbread village on the second floor for more holiday fun!
The lights are on from now until January 5, 2025. Entertainment and performances are open to the public for free, check the website for dates and times.
8. Radio City Music Hall, Giant Candy Canes and Baubles
Just a stone’s throw from the Rockefeller Center, in 6th Avenue, you’ll find a plethora of photo opportunities. Check out the Christmas tree that illuminates the already glowing façade of Radio City Music Hall. Right across the street you’ll see a forest of giant candy canes, and just a block south, oversized red baubles reflect in the Avenue of the America’s Fountain.
All of these are outdoor, publicly accessible and free! If don’t have much time, head for the intersection of 6th Avenue and West 50th to get the most of your NYC holiday decoration experience in one place.
Brooklyn holiday lights
1. Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
For over-the-top holiday lights, head to the residential suburb of Dyker Heights, in Brooklyn. This neighbourhood is famous for its residents’ extravagant displays. Expect life-sized Santas, animatronic reindeer, and millions of twinkling lights. It’s a feast for the eyes and a true community effort that draws crowds from all over the world.
This holiday light hotspot is located from 11th to 13th Avenues, between 83rd and 86th Streets. Grab public transport and pound the pavement to avoid traffic. There are also tour buses operating out of Midtown Manhattan, that will take you down to the lights and provide walking tours of the best streets.
Lights turn on the weekend after Thanksgiving and usually appear dusk to 9pm, nightly through to the first week of January. Words to the wise:
- Dress warmly.
- Be mindful that this is a real neighbourhood with real people and respect them accordingly.
- There are no bathrooms nearby, so manage your liquid intake beforehand.
2. Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an enchanting, illuminated trail that winds through the Garden’s wintery beauty. You’ll walk through shimmering tunnels, glowing arches, and dazzling art installations. Festive music and food concessions offering seasonal treats add to the atmosphere.
It’s a perfect romantic evening (December 12 and 19 are adults 21+ nights after 7pm), or family-friendly evening outing. Visit from now to January 5, 2025. Last entry is 8:15pm, with the show concluding at 9:15pm. Brooklyn Botanic Garden says to allow 90-minutes.
Bronx holiday lights
1. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Head to the Bronx Zoo for an unforgettable holiday lights experience. The Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with animated displays, lantern safaris, and immersive light tunnels. It’s family-friendly but equally delightful for adults looking to soak in the festive atmosphere.
There are six lantern trails, each with a different theme, along with interactive light displays, photo ops and ice carving demonstrations. You can purchase season treats and ride the holiday train.
The Bronx Zoo holiday festival runs from November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025. Tickets must be reserved in advance – see the Zoo website for details.
2. New York Botanical Garden’s Nightmare Before Christmas
Also in the Bronx, the New York Botanical Garden’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” theme brings a spooky twist to the holiday season. This festive display starts before Halloween and combines Tim Burton-inspired designs with winter florals and glowing light exhibits for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
The Nightmare Before Christmas only runs through to December 1, 2024 so get in while you can. It will take from 45-minutes to 1-hour to explore the one-way Light Trail. Parking is limited, so consider rideshare or public transportation.
3. New York Botanical Garden – Holiday Trains
Don’t worry if you missed NYBG’s Nightmare Before Christmas, there is more holiday fun in store, especially if you’re a railfan. Model trains navigate a New York City skyline in miniature, among the flora of the Haupt Conservatory. The display makes a day to night transition, adding coloured lights, Christmas tunes and seasonal bites after dark. Like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Lightscape, there are adult 21+ nights.
The Holiday Train show starts November 16 and runs through January 20, 2025. Allow 90-mins for your visit. See the website for more details and ticket sales.
The best holiday markets in New York City
Holiday markets in NYC are a festive tradition, offering the perfect mix of seasonal cheer, unique gifts, and delicious treats. Wander through twinkling stalls, sip on hot chocolate, and tick off your holiday shopping list as you support small businesses and makers at these must-visit markets.
1. Bryant Park Winter Village
This holiday hotspot features more than just shopping. The European-inspired holiday market, ice-skating rink, and a glittering Christmas tree, backed by some of the city’s best architecture make Bryant Park a magical stop. After dark, the tree lights up beautifully, and the cosy winter vibe is perfect (albeit expensive) hot chocolate stop.
The Winter Village at Bryant Park is the place to shop 200 boutique-vendors selling everything from handmade jewellery to artisanal chocolates. The open-air market also features an ice-skating rink, rentable igloos and plenty of food stalls serving winter warmers like mulled wine, French toast bites, and German bratwurst.
Bryant Park Winter Village is open from October 25 to January 5. Market hours are every day 11am-8pm. Get the holiday shop map here.
2. Union Square Holiday Market
This iconic market is the heart of NYC’s holiday shopping scene. With 185 vendors offering crafts, artworks, and gourmet goodies, it’s a one-stop shop for unique gifts. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by holiday lights, carolers, and the delicious aroma of fresh baked goods.
In 2024, the Union Square Market will run from 14 November to 24 December. Market hours are Monday-Friday 11am-8pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-8pm. On Christmas Eve, the market will close at 4pm.
3. Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Nestled at the entrance to Central Park, this charming market is smaller but no less magical. Browse through handcrafted items, sustainable products, and global delicacies. Afterward, enjoy a stroll through Central Park or catch the city’s iconic skyline from nearby viewpoints.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market will run from 3-31 December, closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. Market hours are Monday-Friday 11am-8pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-8pm.
Tip: An organization named Urbanspace run all three of the aforementioned markets: Bryant Park, Union Square and Columbus Circle. Therefore, you’ll see a lot of crossover between the vendors and you only need to visit one of the three. My personal favourite is Bryant Park.
4. Grand Central Holiday Fair
If you’re looking for a warm indoor market, the Grand Central Holiday Fair inside Vanderbilt Hall is the place to go. This elegant market features high-quality goods, from luxury home décor to stylish winter accessories, all set against the backdrop of Grand Central Terminal’s stunning architecture.
Unfortunately, I find the Grand Central Holiday Fair a lot less atmospheric than the outdoor markets. The exhibition-style booths come across a little clinical and there aren’t a lot of festive decorations – it’s more a commuter market for the person who needs to “pick up something on the way.” If that is you, you’ll find the market open November 11 to Christmas Eve, Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm and Sunday 11am-6pm. Closed Thanksgiving.
NYC Holiday shows and entertainment
The Rockettes
Radio City Music Hall’s bonanza is synonymous with the holidays in New York City. The Rockettes high kick their way into the festive season with Christmas classics and more contemporary numbers in a 90-minute show. The Christmas Spectacular runs from now until January 5.
New York City Ballet – The Nutcracker
From Friday, November 29 to Saturday, January 4 you can see the NYC Ballet perform George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker – a timeless holiday classic. You don’t have to be a ballet fan to enjoy Tchaikovsky’s score, the ornate sets and stunning costumes. You can hear those first celestial strains of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, can’t you? The Nutcracker is family-friendly and so popular it’s usually a sell-out, so get your tickets well in advance.
Santa’s Secret
Shhhhh… Keep this one to yourself. Santa’s Secret is a pop-up speakeasy with holiday drinks, live music and cabaret performances. This adults 18+ night of entertainment combines burlesque, immersive displays and variety for your holiday pleasure. Plus a Michelin—awarded chef to cook you up something delicious.
The show runs from November 29 to December 31, ending with a New Year’s Eve extravaganza. Get the secret password here.
Santa Con
Love to dress up and drink? Santa Con may be just your holiday ticket. This event, benefiting charity, is a Santa-themed pub crawl. Get yourself a Santa Suite, buy your ticket, brush up on Santa etiquette and have the sleigh ready on December 14 at 10am. It’s time to get jolly!
Ice skating in Central Park
While Central Park is magical year-round, it’s especially charming during the holidays. Wollman Rink, backed by Manhattan’s skyline, is picture-perfect. Bundle up, go skating, and enjoy the festive atmosphere from October 26, 2024 through to March 15, 2025. Go during off-peak times to save a good chunk of dough.
Ice skating at Rockefeller Center
Alternatively (or as well) hit The Rink at the Rockefeller Center for the chance to skate under the famed Christmas tree. The Rink is open daily from 9am to midnight. There are 60-minute general skate sessions, 90-minute premium sessions and seasonal passes available. See more details on The Rink website.
Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off
The Museum of New York City hosts the annual Great Borough Bake-Off from now through January 12, 2025. Twenty-three bakers have been at work to create 20 icons of New York City’s five boroughs in flour and sugar.
See these gingerbread masterpieces and cast your vote for the peoples’ choice, during Museum hours from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, and 10am-6pm Saturday and Sunday.
General tips for enjoying holiday lights and events in NYC
1. When do NYC Christmas decorations go up?
Most holiday decorations start appearing in mid-November. By Thanksgiving, the city is decked out in its festive finery. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is lit in late November or early December, marking the official start of the season.
2. When do holiday decorations come down in NYC?
Most decorations usually stay up until early January, with most coming down around the first week of the month. If you’re visiting after New Year’s, you’ll still catch plenty of festive displays, but plan your trip before January 5, 2025 for the full experience.
3. What to Wear?
NYC is chilly in December, and most of the holiday displays are outdoors, so dress warmly. Layer up with a good coat, scarf, gloves, and a hat. Comfortable, waterproof shoes are a must, especially if you’re exploring Dyker Heights or walking between Fifth Avenue’s window displays. See my all-season NYC packing list here.
Pro tip: bring a thermos of hot cocoa or tea to stay cosy while you wander (and save some $$$)!
4. Plan Ahead for Crowds
Holiday light spots like Rockefeller Center can get very crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Try visiting early in the morning or later at night for a less hectic experience. Use public transport wherever possible. For Dyker Heights, weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. Check the websites for each event, as some divulge the peak and off-peak hours.
5. Bring a camera (and a portable charger)
You’ll want to capture all the holiday magic, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. A portable charger will ensure you don’t run out of battery halfway through your adventure. Also, taking photos of NYC’s holiday lights can be tricky due to low light conditions. For the best results, here are some tips:
- Turn off your flash and use your phone or camera’s night mode instead. A flash can wash out the coloured lights, night mode is better.
- Try to shoot before it gets completely dark, about an hour before sunset to 30-minutes after sunset.
- Hold your phone steady. A lot of NYC venues do not allow tripods or selfie sticks, but you can often find something to prop your phone/camera against, and use the timer to capture your image.
- If you’re using a phone, try the Live Photo (Apple) or Motion Photos (Android) setting, and you can choose the best frame later.
- Set your phone or camera to take RAW photos. These will be larger files than a jpeg, but they will allow for more light adjustments later. You can then save them as jpegs after you have edited them.
- Tap on the brightest area of your frame to focus, then drag the sun icon (exposure slider) down or left (depending on your phone) slightly to avoid overexposure.
- Use portrait mode to blur the holiday lights and get a cool Bokeh effect.
- Use your photo to create a personal postcard or holiday greeting card, using these apps.
I hope you have a magical time discovering all the NYC holiday lights and Christmas displays; eat naughty, play nice and have a merry end of year!
Peace, love & happy holidays,
Madam ZoZo
