Christmas events near me: What to do in NYC

The holidays might be a little lopsided this year, but we can all agree that we deserve some good cheer. Fortunately, NYC Christmas trees deliver those holly jolly vibes in spades. From the traditional attractions (we're lookin' at you, Rockefeller Center) to the more unique setups (wait until you see what's happening at Queens County Farm), these beauties will definitely give you a sentimental feeling. 

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2020 display has definitely earned its stripes as one of the best New York attractions. What’s not to love about all that razzle-dazzle to get you in the Christmas spirit? The Brooklyn neighborhood is home to the most over-the-top Christmas light decorations with life-sized Santas, sleighs, snowmen and some houses even bump Christmas carols from loudspeakers. Crowds of all ages flock to the Kings County neighborhood to wander down the multiple blocks and avenues and experience one of the top things to do in NYC in the winter.

One of New Yorkers' beloved holiday traditions is making some changes for the 2020 season. 

Since 1861, families have flocked to Macy's in Herald Square to venture through the whimsical, festive Santaland, and of course, snag some one-on-one time with the man in the red suit. This year, things will look a little different: From Nov 27 through Dec 24, Macy’s Santaland will be transformed into an interactive, virtual experience, ultimately bringing a little piece of NYC Christmas magic to homes everywhere. 

“At Macy’s, the safety of our customers and colleagues is paramount,” Susan Tercero, Macy’s vice president of Branded Entertainment, said in a statement. “To replicate the magical experience of visiting Macy’s Santaland for children and their families, we will shift to a virtual engagement this year. "Macy’s is delighted to have found a way to ensure even more families can enjoy this treasured experience safely during this festive time of the year.”

Grab a cup of cocoa, put on some Christmas songs for kids and venture to the North Pole from the comfort of home via Macy’s Santaland at Home. (It's free!)

Here's how to make a visit: 

• Go to macys.com/santaland and allow moms, dads or adult guardians to enable all permissions. 
• Join the elves, who are your guide on the journey. Up to three children can enjoy the customized experience at the same time. 
• Play interactive games and take a gander at Santa's village and workshop while you're on your North Pole-bound train.
• Stay until the end of the event, where a digital interactive video with Santa will allow kids to read off their wish lists and pose for a selfie.

Not only will other cities get a taste of how NYC celebrates the holidays, but we Gothamites can experience traditions from different locales: The Santaland website will highlight Macy’s Center City in Philadelphia, which hosts Dickens’ Village and the Christmas Light Show. Plus, Kris Kringle himself will appear on Macy's social media handles throughout the season for some fun surprises. 

Sure, things are a little different, but the show will go on. See you in the North Pole!

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The Woodstock site is getting a yuletide makeover. From Nov 23–Jan 3, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts will host the drive-thru Peace, Love & Lights Festival, a one mile-long display of holiday lights with homage to the grounds' iconic past. Naturally, there are eye-catching Christmas displays—a 120-foot Twinkle Tunnel, an Enchanted Forest—but where else will you find Groovy Way, a lights attraction takin' you all the way back to 1969? It's a must for music lovers and the whole family! 

Dozens of illuminated attractions are waiting for you in Jersey! This mile-long Christmas celebration has a little bit of everything—a jumbo dragon in a Santa hat, a snowflake tunnel and so much more. From Nov 19–Dec 30, guests are invited to hit the road and pull up to the experience. Tune in to the radio for a synched performance. 

Suffolk County's largest holiday light show is back this year with even more offerings to dazzle those driving through. Tune in to the radio for holiday music as you make your way through enormous illuminated attractions. The event will run from Nov 19–Dec 30.

American Express Platinum Winter Lights will debut for the first time at Moorland Farms in New Jersey. Cardholders will have the opportunity to drive through two miles of twinkling lights, a recreation of American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker and a drive-through snow globe, all while their journey is accompanied by holiday tunes from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDs. Even better? This Christmas event is not just for fun—it's for a cause. Proceeds will benefit the American Ballet Theatre and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDs. To support Shop SmallⓇ, AmEx will also work with local businesses like Willow & Olivia and David Bradley Chocolatier to curate a selection of winter treats. Tickets are $15 per car and time slots are from 5:30–10pm are available from Dec 11–13 and Dec 18–20.