Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Photograph: Shutterstock | Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Christmas in New York 2026: a guide to celebrating the season

Have a holly jolly season using our Christmas in New York guide to navigate the best and most festive attractions and events.
Rachel Askinasi
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It's true what they say: There's nothing like Christmas in New York. Holiday time in NYC allows us all to be just a little more childlike than usual as the city becomes drenched in twinkling lights. The best New York attractions transform into festive winter extravaganzas, there are open-air holiday markets to hit, family-friendly shows such as the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and other iconic traditions like the dazzling holiday displays on Fifth Avenue and in Dyker Heights.

Once you’ve crossed those off the list, you can make room for new traditions, too! Our guide will help you plan and navigate the merriest time of year in New York leading up to New Year’s Eve. Looking for some great non-holiday-centric things to do in the city? Check out the very best things to do in NYC this winter.

Where to celebrate Christmas in NYC for 2026

Best Christmas things to do in NYC
Things to do

Best Christmas things to do in NYC

Whether you channel your inner grinch or cheery elf during NYC's most wonderful season, we've got you covered with activities.
The Bryant Park Winter Village guide
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The Bryant Park Winter Village guide

Bryant Park's Winter Village by Bank of America is returning to NYC with exciting holiday shops, food and activities on October 27 through March 3,...

Winter in NYC

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NYC's best fireplace bars

In a town where functioning intercoms are considered an apartment amenity, New Yorkers seek niceties like fireplaces outside of the home
The best hot chocolate in NYC
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The best hot chocolate in NYC

Whether you get it from your corner Joe joint or one of the city's best bakeries, hot chocolate in NYC has never been better