Top 9 Festive Activities in NYC 2023 for a Magical Holiday Season

Welcome to the ultimate guide to experiencing the festive magic of New York City during the holiday season! As the winter chill sets in, NYC transforms into a dazzling wonderland, offering a myriad of enchanting experiences. From the world-renowned Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting to the charming holiday markets like Bryant Park Winter Village and Union Square, this city is a hub of festive joy. Whether you’re planning a family outing to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights or seeking a unique experience at Santa’s Secret Speakeasy, our guide is packed with the best holiday activities in NYC for 2023. Immerse yourself in the Winter Wonderland at Watermark, glide across iconic ice skating rinks, and marvel at the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show.

With this blog, you’ll discover all the top Christmas events, light shows, and holiday markets that make New York City a premier holiday destination. Let’s unwrap the magic and explore the best of NYC’s holiday season together! For a full 24-hour guide on how to spend the holidays in NYC, please check out my blog post here.

The 9 Festive Activities for a Magical Holiday Season

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2023

This is obviously an iconic part of New York City every year but you can’t experience NYC during the holidays and not go to Rockefeller Center. For those who don’t know,the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a dazzling 80-foot Norway Spruce adorned with 50,000 LED lights, is a centerpiece of NYC Christmas festivities. Go during night to obviously see it lit up and you can also enjoy the light show on Saks Fifth Ave, an extravagant light display known for its dazzling and artistic use of lights on the facade of the Saks Fifth Avenue building. I will say it is busy here every night so be prepared. Plus I wouldn’t suggest ice skating here as it is way overpriced and overcrowded.

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center

Bryant Park Winter Village Holiday Market

This is truly a gem, capturing the essence of European Christmas markets. Here you can explore over 180 vendors at Bryant Park’s Winter Village, featuring unique holiday gifts and a festive ice skating experience in one of NYC’s most beloved parks. There is plenty to do here daily for any type of person, you can check out more information on activities hosted here. Other festive holiday markets to check out include Union Square Holiday Market and the vibrant Columbus Circle Holiday Market.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour

Discover the stunning Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, a Brooklyn neighborhood tradition showcasing elaborate holiday decorations and festive music. To view the beautiful lights, enjoy this guided tour that takes you from Manhattan straight to Brooklyn.

Santa’s Secret Speakeasy Experience in NYC

Dive into the holiday spirit at Santa’s Secret Speakeasy, featuring immersive Christmas installations, live entertainment, and festive cocktails. Located at Hudson Yards Public Square and Gardens, there are eight festive installations to the ultimate destination: Santa’s Speakeasy and Showroom. This enchanting journey is adorned with a variety of unique displays, including whimsical gingerbread girls, robust lumberjacks, and even living snow globes. Upon arrival at the speakeasy, guests are greeted with delightful Christmas cocktails and the lively rhythms of a live band. The entertainment continues with an array of performances ranging from drag to ballet and burlesque, each infused with a festive flair. Situated at 350 11th Avenue & Hudson Blvd East in New York, NY 10001, this event offers a unique twist to the holiday season, capturing the vibrant spirit of the city, book you experience here.

Winter Wonderland at Watermark NYC

Experience a magical outdoor Winter Wonderland at Watermark, complete with holiday decorations, games, and the chance to dine in a cozy, heated igloo. It is the ultimate Christmas experience, located on the East River, the skyline of the city illuminates. For other great winter rooftop bars, please check out my blog post.

New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

The New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show, a must-see NYC holiday attraction, offers a magical experience for all ages. Set in the enchanting environment of the Botanical Garden, this show features meticulously crafted miniatures of New York City landmarks, all made from natural materials like bark, leaves, and berries. Visitors can marvel at model trains zipping through this miniature urban landscape, encompassing famous sites like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge. Celebrating over 30 years of tradition, the Holiday Train Show is a unique blend of art, nature, and holiday spirit, making it a quintessential New York City winter experience. This event not only captures the imagination but also embodies the festive essence of the holidays in the Bronx, New York. Check out more information here.

Ice Skating

New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, and ice skating at its iconic rinks is a quintessential experience. Bryant Park Ice Rink, set amidst the Winter Village’s charming Christmas market, provides a festive skating experience in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. For those seeking a picturesque backdrop, Wollman Rink in Central Park and the Vale Rink in Williamsburg offer stunning cityscape views, perfect for a memorable holiday skate. As stated above, I would not suggest the ice rink at the Rockefeller Center. Although iconic, it is not worth it in my personal opinion.

Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic near Rockefeller Center

Step into a whimsical journey at the Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic, offering sweet treats and festive activities near Rockefeller Center. It is basically a memorizing magical holiday experience with an expansive array of sweet treats. This attraction adds to the festive atmosphere around Rockefeller Center, which is already renowned for its famous Christmas tree, ice skating rink, and beautifully decorated Channel Gardens. The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic provides a fun and family-friendly addition to the holiday offerings in one of New York City’s most celebrated locations.

Hudson Yards

Experience the magic of Hudson Yards during Christmas, where modernity meets holiday enchantment. The gleaming towers of this urban oasis transform into a festive wonderland, adorned with dazzling lights and seasonal decorations. Stroll through The Shops at Hudson Yards, featuring a curated selection of luxury brands, and indulge in holiday shopping with a backdrop of twinkling lights. The Vessel, an iconic centerpiece, becomes even more enchanting with its festive illumination.