December in New York City is nothing short of a fairy tale come to life. As a travel enthusiast who cherishes delving into a destination’s soul – its history, culture, food, and unique experiences – I can confidently say that the Big Apple during the holiday season offers an unparalleled blend of festive cheer, iconic sights, and hidden gems.
From the dazzling lights that adorn every corner to the cozy warmth of a hidden cafe, exploring what to do in new york in december promises a journey filled with wonder and unforgettable moments. This is a time when the city truly transforms, inviting you to witness traditions old and new, taste seasonal delights, and feel the palpable energy of millions celebrating together. It’s not just a trip; it’s an immersion into the heart of New York’s winter spirit.
Iconic Holiday Magic: Lights, Trees, and Window Displays
New York in December is synonymous with spectacular visual feasts. The city doesn’t just decorate; it dazzles. Experiencing these iconic sights is a cornerstone of any December visit.
The World-Famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Standing beneath the colossal Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is an absolute must when deciding what to do in new york in december. This isn’t just a tree; it’s a global symbol of the holiday season. The annual tree lighting ceremony, typically held in late November or early December, is a major event, but visiting at any time of the month is magical. Adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and topped with the stunning Swarovski Star, the tree radiates a warmth that combats the December chill. Its history dates back to the Great Depression, a beacon of hope during challenging times, adding a layer of historical significance to its undeniable beauty.
While the tree itself is the main attraction, the atmosphere around Rockefeller Center is electric. Streets are often closed to traffic, allowing crowds to gather and soak it all in. The surrounding Channel Gardens are also beautifully decorated. Be prepared for crowds, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or late at night can offer a slightly less congested experience.
Fifth Avenue’s Enchanting Window Displays
A leisurely stroll down Fifth Avenue during December is like walking through a living storybook. Major department stores compete to create the most elaborate and imaginative holiday window displays. This tradition dates back over a century, blending retail artistry with festive storytelling.
Stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany & Co. transform their windows into intricate scenes, often with moving parts, music, and dazzling lights. Saks Fifth Avenue is particularly famous for its theatrical window reveals and the accompanying light show projected onto its facade, choreographed to holiday music.
Walking from the Plaza Hotel down towards Rockefeller Center and beyond, you’ll be treated to a visual spectacle that captures the spirit of the season, mixing high fashion with whimsical holiday themes. It’s a delightful, free activity perfect for soaking in the city’s festive energy, even if you’re just window shopping.
Dazzling Light Shows and Decorations
Beyond the main attractions, countless buildings, parks, and public spaces across the city get into the holiday spirit with their own impressive light displays. From the grand decorations at the Shops at Columbus Circle to the festive lights strung across residential streets, the city becomes a canvas of illumination. While planning what to do in new york in december, remember that simply walking through different neighborhoods after dark can be an experience in itself.
Festive Markets: Shopping, Food, and Local Crafts
December is prime time for holiday markets in New York City. These pop-up villages offer a charming alternative to traditional retail, providing unique shopping opportunities, delicious food, and a vibrant community atmosphere. They are excellent spots to find handcrafted gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and experience local culture.
Bryant Park’s Winter Village
The Winter Village at Bryant Park is one of the most popular markets, transforming the park into a festive wonderland from late October through early January. It features over a hundred open-air stalls selling everything from artisanal food products and handmade jewelry to clothing and holiday ornaments.
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Beyond the shopping, Bryant Park boasts a large, free-admission ice-skating rink (skate rentals available), a festive holiday tree, and “The Lodge,” a cozy area offering food and drinks. It’s a bustling hub of activity, perfect for spending a few hours browsing, skating, and soaking up the holiday cheer right in the heart of Midtown.
Union Square Holiday Market
Located in the vibrant Union Square Park, this market is known for its distinctive red and white stalls and focus on local artisans and small businesses. It typically runs for a few weeks in December, offering a curated selection of unique gifts, art, and gourmet edibles.
The Union Square market has a slightly more bohemian and crafty feel compared to Bryant Park, attracting vendors selling everything from handcrafted ceramics and woodwork to local food products and unique apparel. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and enjoy the lively downtown atmosphere.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
For those seeking refuge from the cold, the Grand Central Holiday Fair offers an indoor market experience within the stunning Vanderbilt Hall of Grand Central Terminal. This curated market features a selection of vendors selling high-quality goods, making it ideal for finding more upscale or delicate gifts.
The setting itself, beneath the celestial ceiling of Grand Central, adds to the magic. You’ll find items like fine art, handcrafted jewelry, artisanal bath products, and unique home goods. It’s a more relaxed shopping environment, perfect for a cold or rainy day.
Embracing the Winter Chill: Ice Skating and Outdoor Fun
December in New York means crisp air and the perfect opportunity to enjoy classic winter activities, especially ice skating against the backdrop of the city’s stunning skyline.
Skating in Central Park: Wollman and Lasker Rinks
Ice skating in Central Park is a quintessential New York December experience. The park offers two main rinks: Wollman Rink on the east side (closer to Midtown and the Central Park Zoo) and Lasker Rink further north (near the Harlem Meer).
Wollman Rink is arguably the most iconic, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding skyscrapers as you glide across the ice. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, often seen in movies, making it a truly cinematic experience.
Lasker Rink, while less crowded, offers a different perspective within the park’s more natural landscape and also serves as a pool in the summer. Both offer skate rentals and a chance to enjoy a timeless winter activity in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or clinging to the wall, it’s a joyful way to spend a December afternoon or evening.
Other Notable Rinks
Beyond Central Park, other popular skating destinations include the Rink at Rockefeller Center (smaller, but incredibly festive and located right beneath the tree), the Rink at Bryant Park (free admission), and Brookfield Place Rink (offering Hudson River views). Each offers a slightly different vibe and view, allowing you to pick the one that best suits your desired experience.
Cultural & Performance Highlights: The Stage Comes Alive
December sees New York’s vibrant cultural scene burst with holiday-themed performances and events, offering warmth, entertainment, and artistry.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular
A New York holiday tradition for decades, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the legendary Rockettes, is a dazzling, high-energy show that delights audiences of all ages. The precision dance routines, elaborate costumes, stunning sets, and festive storyline (including the famous “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and a living Nativity scene) make this a truly spectacular performance.
Seeing the Rockettes’ synchronized kicks and the overall production value of this show is a highlight for many visiting in December. Radio City Music Hall itself is a magnificent Art Deco landmark, adding to the grandeur of the experience. Booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended as shows often sell out.
Holiday Performances
Beyond the Rockettes, December in NYC is filled with holiday concerts, ballets, and theatrical performances. The New York City Ballet’s production of “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center is another cherished classic. Churches and concert halls across the city host performances of Handel’s “Messiah” and other holiday-themed musical events. Checking local listings for theaters, music venues, and churches will reveal a wealth of cultural options to enjoy during your visit.
Historical & Spiritual Reflections: Finding Peace Amidst the Bustle
Amidst the festive frenzy, New York offers spaces for reflection and appreciation of history and faith, particularly poignant during the holiday season.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue in December offers a moment of peace and architectural awe. This magnificent Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral is a landmark at any time of year, but during the holidays, it is beautifully decorated, often featuring a large Nativity scene.
Stepping inside its vast, quiet interior provides a striking contrast to the bustling Fifth Avenue outside. Attending a service or simply taking a moment to admire the stained glass windows, towering spires, and intricate details can be a meaningful experience. The cathedral often hosts special holiday concerts and services, adding to its spiritual significance during December.
Other Historic Churches
Many other historic churches throughout the city also offer beautiful architecture, holiday decorations, and special services or musical events in December. Exploring these can provide a deeper connection to the city’s history and diverse communities.
Culinary Delights: Tasting the Flavors of a New York Winter
New York’s diverse culinary scene takes on a special cozy appeal in December. From warming drinks to seasonal treats, the city offers plenty to satisfy your taste buds.
Classic Holiday Treats and Drinks
December calls for comfort food and warming beverages. Look out for street vendors selling roasted chestnuts, their smoky aroma filling the crisp air. Seek out cafes offering rich, decadent hot chocolate – a perfect antidote to a chilly day. Bakeries and pastry shops abound with seasonal delights like gingerbread cookies, panettone, and festive pastries.
Finding a cozy spot to enjoy a warm drink and a treat is a simple pleasure that enhances the December experience. Many restaurants also feature seasonal specials using winter ingredients.
Cozy Restaurants and Bars
The colder weather makes exploring New York’s vast restaurant scene particularly appealing. Seek out establishments with fireplaces, dim lighting, or just a generally warm and inviting atmosphere. From classic steakhouses and Italian trattorias to intimate cocktail bars, there are endless options for a comforting meal or drink after a day of exploring. Consider trying cuisines that feel inherently warming, like hearty stews, rich pasta dishes, or flavorful curries. Exploring neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or the West Village often reveals charming, cozy spots perfect for a winter evening.
Beyond the Usual: Unique December Experiences
While the major attractions are essential, exploring some less conventional activities can enrich your December New York adventure and give you a taste of new york unique things to do.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Venture out to the Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn to witness an astonishing display of residential Christmas lights. This over-the-top spectacle features homes elaborately decorated with thousands of lights, inflatable characters, animated figures, and elaborate scenes.
What started as a friendly neighborhood competition has grown into a major attraction. While it requires a subway ride and some walking (or taking a guided tour), it’s a unique cultural phenomenon and a truly dazzling sight. This is a fantastic example of what to do in brooklyn during the holiday season.
Holiday Train Show at the NY Botanical Garden
Located in the Bronx, the New York Botanical Garden hosts an annual Holiday Train Show, featuring miniature trains running through a landscape of more than 175 famous New York landmarks, all re-created from natural materials like bark, leaves, and seeds.
It’s a charming and intricate display that appeals to all ages and offers a chance to visit a different borough and enjoy the beauty of the botanical garden in a unique way.
Practical Tips for Visiting New York in December
Navigating New York in December can be challenging due to crowds and weather, but with some planning, you can make the most of your trip.
- Weather & Packing: December is cold. Pack layers, including warm coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots. The weather can be unpredictable, ranging from crisp and sunny to snowy or rainy.
- Getting Around: The subway is the most efficient way to get around, helping you avoid traffic congestion. Purchase a MetroCard or use contactless payment. Be prepared for crowded trains, especially during peak hours and around major attractions. Walking is also a great way to explore neighborhoods, but be mindful of the cold.
- Booking in Advance: Popular shows like the Rockettes, Nutcracker performances, and some special events sell out months in advance. Restaurants, especially popular ones or those offering special holiday menus, also fill up quickly. Book accommodations, transportation, and key activities as early as possible.
- Managing Crowds: December is peak tourist season. Be prepared for large crowds at major landmarks, holiday markets, and popular shopping areas. Visit popular outdoor attractions earlier in the day or later in the evening.
- Budgeting: New York in December can be expensive. Factor in costs for activities, food, transportation, and potential holiday shopping. Look for free activities like walking tours, window displays, and park visits to help manage your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is December a good time to visit New York City?
Yes, December is a very popular and magical time to visit New York City due to the extensive holiday decorations, events, and festive atmosphere. However, be prepared for cold weather and large crowds.
How should I dress for New York in December?
Dress in warm layers. You will need a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. Comfortable, waterproof boots are also essential as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and might encounter snow or rain.
What are the must-see holiday attractions in NYC in December?
Top attractions include the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Fifth Avenue window displays, holiday markets (Bryant Park, Union Square), ice skating rinks (Central Park, Rockefeller), and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
Do I need to book attractions in advance for a December trip?
Absolutely. Popular shows, tours, and some high-demand experiences should be booked months in advance, especially if you are visiting closer to Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Is New York very crowded in December?
Yes, December is one of the busiest times of the year in New York City. Expect significant crowds, particularly around popular holiday attractions, shopping areas, and transportation hubs.
Conclusion
Deciding what to do in new york in december opens up a world of possibilities. From the iconic sparkle of the Rockefeller Tree and the artistic flair of Fifth Avenue windows to the cozy charm of holiday markets and the historical quiet of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the city offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re gliding on ice, savoring a warm drink, or marveling at residential light displays in Brooklyn, visiting New York in December is an immersive cultural and sensory journey.
It’s a time when the city’s energy is infectious, reminding you of the magic that the holiday season holds. So, pack your warmest layers, prepare to be amazed, and step into the winter wonderland that is New York City in December. You might just find yourself captivated by the unique blend of history, culture, and festive cheer that defines the Big Apple during this special time of year. Exploring all what can you do in new york is a lifelong endeavor, but December offers a uniquely concentrated dose of its most beloved charms.