Festive Things to do in New York City in winter

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New York City in winter is a stunning, spectacular winter wonderland—from extravagant holiday light displays and mesmerizing department store windows to gigantic Christmas trees and sparkling ice-skating rinks, New York City has it all.

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Our Ultimate New York in Winter travel guide is full of holiday tips and activities, must see attractions like the Rockefeller Christmas tree, as well as useful packing tips for spending winter in New York!

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Christmas Markets

The markets feature eye-catching holiday décor and are perfect to shop for unique and handmade Christmas gifts, ornaments, and holiday treats. 

Enjoy the Frozen Landscape at Central Park

The whole area resembles a snowy winter wonderland. You will see iced streams and lakes, snow-covered bridges, and frosted trees – a wonderful spectacle.

Holiday Window Displays

The most elaborate displays are located in Midtown: Macy’s is the most famous one but Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and Bergdorf Goodman also have spectacular displays.

Statue of Liberty

Visiting Liberty Island and seeing the statue up close is a thrilling experience. The ferry starts from Battery Park in Manhattan as well as from Liberty State Park in New Jersey and takes visitors to Ellis Island along with Liberty Island.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

The parade features over the top floats and balloons, including the famous Snoopy balloon, and popular stars lineup to provide entertainment. 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Surrounded by the tree and holiday lights, the rink looks magical at night and is one of the hottest date spots in NYC. 

Brooklyn Bridge

The best time for a walk is mid-day when the sun will be up and you won’t feel as cold. After you walk across the bridge, explore the Brooklyn Bridge Park. 

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Expect to see over tens of thousands of lights during your visit along with inflatable Santas, reindeer, snowmen, and more. 

The Village

Get to see charming holiday decor on the historic brownstone buildings and walk along cobblestone streets..

Santacon

An annual winter pub crawl/parade where all attendees wear Santa Claus costumes!

New York Botanical Garden

The garden is beautiful in winter as the icy trees look ethereal and the ground is carpeted in snow.

Times Square Ball Drop

Thousands visit New York just to see the ball drop and countdown to the New Year. You can also attend parties held in nearby hotels and restaurants with a view of Times Square.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Consider checking them out from alternative locations like Brooklyn Bridge or Prospect Park. Better yet, go on a fireworks cruise and watch the sparkling stars over the Manhattan skyline.

Chinese New Year in Chinatown

The Lunar New Year is celebrated with great pomp and splendor featuring colorful costumes, martial art performances, traditional dances, and firecrackers.

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