As the holiday season approaches, Manhattan comes alive with a blend of timeless traditions and festive new experiences.
For those who have called New York home for a lifetime, these highlights may bring back fond memories, while some fresh additions may surprise and delight. We've curated a list of upscale events perfect for a day (or evening) with family and friends.
2024 Holiday Events in Manhattan
1. Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring the Rockettes
A beloved and iconic holiday tradition, this dazzling performance features the precision dance troupe in a variety of numbers.
Dates: November 8, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Radio City Music Hall, Midtown West
Tickets: Prices vary; advance purchase is recommended.
2. The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, the iconic ice-skating rink beneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a quintessential New York holiday activity.
Dates: October 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Rockefeller Center, Midtown West
Tickets: Admission fees apply; reservations are recommended.
3. The Rink at Winter Village at Bryant Park
Enjoy free admission ice-skating at this winter wonderland surrounded by a European-inspired holiday market.
Dates: October 29, 2024 – March 2, 2025
Location: Bryant Park, Midtown
Tickets: Skate rentals are available; advance booking is recommended.
4. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Witness the world-famous parade featuring giant character balloons, floats, and performances, marking the start of the holiday season.
Date: November 28, 2024
Location: Route begins at Central Park West and 77th Street, ending at Macy's Herald Square
Tickets: Free to attend; early arrival is recommended for good viewing spots.
5. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
Attend the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of lights and a Swarovski star.
Date: December 4, 2024
Location: Rockefeller Center, Midtown West
Tickets: Free to attend; early arrival is recommended due to large crowds.
6. George Balanchine's The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center
Experience the timeless ballet performance of "The Nutcracker" by the New York City Ballet, featuring exquisite choreography and Tchaikovsky's classic score.
Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Location: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center
Tickets: Prices typically range from $100 to $200. Advance purchase is recommended due to high demand.
7. Big Band Holidays at Lincoln Center
Enjoy soulful big band performances of both secular and sacred holiday songs by Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
Dates: December 18 – 22, 2024
Location: Rose Theater, Lincoln Center
Tickets: Prices vary; early booking is advised as tickets sell out fast.
8. Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
Marvel at model trains navigating through a display of New York landmarks crafted from natural materials.
Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 20, 2025
Location: New York Botanical Garden, Bronx (easily accessible from Manhattan)
Tickets: Admission fees apply; advance purchase is recommended.
9. Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History
Admire a 13-foot tree adorned with over 1,000 hand-folded paper models, each inspired by the museum's exhibits.
Dates: November 25, 2024 – January 2, 2025
Location: American Museum of Natural History
Tickets: Included with museum admission.
10. Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Stroll through an enchanting illuminated trail featuring dazzling light displays and seasonal music.
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Brooklyn Botanic Garden (a short trip from Manhattan)
Tickets: Admission fees apply; advance booking is recommended.
11. Lighting of the World's Largest Hanukkah Menorah
Attend the nightly lighting ceremonies of the world's largest menorah, a 32-foot-tall structure, accompanied by live music and traditional foods.
Dates: December 24, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Location: Grand Army Plaza, Midtown Manhattan
Tickets: Free to attend; no registration required.
12. Chanukah on Ice at Wollman Rink
Enjoy ice skating to Jewish music, complimentary kosher food, and the lighting of a hand-carved ice menorah in Central Park.
Date: December 2024
Location: Wollman Rink, Central Park
Tickets: Admission fees apply; advance purchase is recommended.
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Find curated lists of our favorite seasonal activities, dining spots, and more.
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