brand_logo
search_icon
Search
AccommodationNewsroomContact UsContact UsLogoutLogin
Search
Search
£20 cashback on the app!
4.5/5
180K+ Downloads
Download App
Log in or sign up
Please provide a valid email address
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Enter code sent on your email
test@test.com
Change
Please provide a valid OTP
Haven’t received the OTP
Resend (15s)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
or
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions

Top 20 Things To Do In New York In December

Interests
8 min
|
Uploaded on
Dec 6, 2022
|
Last updated on
Feb 8, 2025
Uploaded on
Dec 6, 2022
|
Last updated on
Feb 8, 2025

Share :

Copy Link

Link Copied

Share on Facebook

Share on Twitter

Share on LinkedIn

Top 20 Things To Do In New York In December
Festive state of mind

Finally, t’is the season of watching a marathon of Home Alone and Hallmark movies while drinking hot chocolate, so your soul is satisfied. And the holiday season is the best time to go to New York City. 

Indeed the month of December is a magical time to visit New York City. With the holiday season in full swing and winter in the air, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. From the festive decorations and holiday markets to the ice skating rinks and iconic Christmas trees such as the Rockefeller Center, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the Big Apple during December. Here are the top 20 things to do in New York City in December.

Things to do in New York in December

Visit the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas Tree

Address- 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112

Decorated with numerous LED bulbs and uncountable Swarovski crystals, this tree will definitely help you get your holiday spirit up and high. Visiting the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas Tree and watching the magical lights lighting up your holidays is, by no doubt, one of the best things to do in New York in December. You can visit the place and see the Christmas Tree from 1st November 2022 to mid-January 2023. You can also ice skate here, as there is an ice-skating rink nearby.

SantaCon 

Address- The venue for SantaCon will be announced soon.

SantaCon is the new ComicCon this season. It is time to dress up as your favourite Christmas character and roam the streets of New York. This nonsensical SantaCon is a charitable convention organised to spread purely absurd joy. This year SantaCon will happen on the 10th of December 2022. SantaCon is definitely one of the most bizarre and absurd things to do in New York in December. 

Classic Harbor Line: Holiday Jazz Cruise Aboard Classic Motor Yacht

Address- Chelsea Piers, Pier 62

Celebrate Christmas luxuriously and make it memorable by spending some time on a cruise with your loved one(s). During November and December, the cruises and decks are decorated all with the holiday spirit. All you have to do is board this luxurious 1920’s style yacht, sip your wine and relax while listening to jazz. This tour will show you some of the magnificent views of the NYC skyline. If you want some luxurious things to do in New York in December, you should definitely visit the Holiday Jazz Cruise.

Ice Skating in New York City

Address- Central Park, New York and numerous other places.

When we say ice skating is one of the best things to do in New York in December, we mean it. Ice skating in Central Park will have you step into a magical cinematic world. Who knows, maybe you might be able to recreate the scene from Serendipity in your own magical way. After all, everything about Christmas is magical.

Santa's Secret Immersive Holiday Experience

Address- The Shops at Hudson Yards - 20 Hudson Yards, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10001

Here is an invitation from Santa inviting you to his best-kept secret. This Santa’s secret speakeasy is on the other side of the known North Pole. When you experience this speakeasy with a holiday twist, you will know why this is on the list of top things to do in New York in December. Christmas beverages, live music, and a spectacular variety show with unique performances are all a part of this immersive experience. But, we must help Santa keep this speakeasy a secret from Mrs Claus.

Shine Bright Only at Hudson Yards

Address- Hudson Yard, New York.

You may take in a breathtaking light show at Hudson Yards called "Shine Bright Only at Hudson Yards", beginning at the end of November. It's one of New York City's newest Christmas light displays. More than 2 million white lights in the indoor/outdoor light and music installation Shine Bright illuminate The Shops, Public Square & Gardens, The Edge, and Vessel. It is definitely, one of the best things to do in New York in December. 

Holiday Train Show at Botanical Garden New York 

Address- 2900 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10458, United States

If you are someone who loves the trains as much as Sheldon Cooper, watching the Holiday Tran Show should definitely be on your list of things to do in New York in December. There will be around 175 landmarks of New York on display. All works of art are constructed on a 0.5-mile-long track that runs alongside Midtown's skyscrapers. You can see model trains run through the replicas of more than 190 landmarks of NYC. This show will take place from November 19, 2022 – January 16, 2023.

Lightscape: Brooklyn's Winter Spectacular at Brooklyn Botanic Garden 

Address- 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, United States

You should definitely add this to your list of things to do in New York in December. There are numerous beautiful Christmas light displays in Brooklyn, one of which is the Lightscape illuminated path at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. You can celebrate this festival season by illuminating the night under the moonlight while you sip your thick hot chocolate.  

Origami Holiday Tree at The Met 

Address- American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024-5102

The Met Museum in New York City also holds a holiday event that includes a stunning Christmas Tree show. The Met Tree is located in the Medieval Sculpture Hall. This well-known holiday custom includes a 20-foot blue spruce tree decorated with 59 angels, 19 cherubs, and 71 figures that represent a Naples-inspired Nativity scene from the 18th century. The 13-foot tree's theme for this year is Beautiful Bugs. 

ARTECHOUSE

Address- 439 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011, United States 

You can celebrate with art this holiday season and immerse yourself in Spectacular Factory. Prepare for a spectacular voyage where the fictional world of a gift factory comes to life. Explore vivid digital multiverses with dreamlike yet recognisable holiday motifs, including spinning candy cane carousels, thousands of nutcrackers, enormous floating swinging bells, and more. Let this holiday season be powered by passion by adding this to your list of top things to do in New York in December. 

The Nutcracker New York City Ballet

Address- David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States

Watching The Nutcracker ballet is yet a classic holiday experience and things to do in New York in December. The Nutcracker New York City Ballet is definitely one of the most famous ballets worldwide. 

Numeral Arrival at Times Square

Address- Times Square, New York

The renowned Times Square lighting year is well-known to everyone. But few are aware that taking pictures of it while standing in front of it is possible! It is set up in Times Square for a few days each December during the "Numeral Arrival" before being raised to the iconic ball that descends on New Year's Eve in Times Square. This is a fantastic chance to take pictures! 

New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

Address- Times Square, New York

In December, In December, especially on New Year's Eve, travellers from all over the world fly into New York City. They travel here to see the well-known ball drop in person. Being present to see the ball drop in person can end up being one of both New Yorkers' and tourists' most treasured memories of the city. It is also a lovely way to bring in the New Year. You will have to experience this yourself to know why this deserves to be one of the top things to do in New York in December.

NYE Wishing Wall

Address- Times Square Plaza, Broadway between 45th/46th Streets, NYC

The NYE Wishing Wall in Times Square is a great tradition that happens each December in New York. In this tradition, you write your wish for the next year and then drop the given piece of paper in the box provided. On New Year's Eve, your wishes will be included in the confetti that falls in Times Square! Every year, on official Times Square New Year's Eve confetti or digitally, people from all over the world write their wishes for the next year. This is definitely one of the coolest things to do in New York in December.

This holiday season, gift yourself some comfort.

Book through amber today!

Visit Us

Lighting the World's Largest Hanukkah Menorahs

Address- Fifth Avenue and 59th Street in Manhattan near Central Park

Like Ross, you, too, can celebrate Hanukkah with Christmas in NYC. The lighting of the Menorah is one of the best things to do in New York in December. The largest Menorah in the world is lit on December 22 to mark the start of the Jewish "Festival of Lights." Both at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn and in front of the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, visitors can see the 400-pound, 32-foot gilded steel structure.

Visit GingerBread Lane - The World's Largest Gingerbread Village!

Address- 88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Cloudy with a chance of Gingerbreads? Jon Lovitch, a chef and creator, plans, bakes, and assembles the village known as GingerBread Lane every year. 500 gingerbread houses, delicately decorated with jelly bean roof tiles, candy canes, and icing constructions, are shown in the NYC hamlet, claims TimeOut, New York. Visiting this village should definitely be on the list of your top things to do in New York in December.

Macy’s Santaland

Address- Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th Street, New York, NY 10

Every year, Macy spreads cheer during the holiday season. During this season, every day, more than 10.000 people come to experience Christmas at Macy's, which is a wonderful experience, and you should definitely add it to your things to do in New York in December list. The only way to meet Santa and take his picture in person is to reserve a time to get in line because who doesn’t want to take a picture with Santa?

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Address- Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Avenue, New York, New York

The well-known Christmas Spectacular has over 140 incredible dancers. Each year, the audience is delighted by the sparkling costumes, distinctive set designs, and abundance of Christmas tunes. The female dancing troupe "The Rockettes," who appear alongside Santa Claus and his elves, are the show's stars.

NYC Holiday Window Displays

Address- Bergdorf Goodman along Fifth Avenue from 58th to 57th streets

Looking and marvelling at the NYC Holiday Window Displays is one of the must things to do in New York in December. The Midtown Manhattan location of Saks Fifth Avenue delivers a unique experience unmatched by any other flagship shop in the city. Saks is considered by many to be one of the must-visit stores' flagship stores in NYC because of the elaborate displays that adorn each floor and the outside light experiences that the store offers.

Visit the Winter and Holiday Markets in NYC

Address- Different locations in New York

Shopping during the holiday season is a wonderful experience altogether in New York. Buying gifts for your loved ones is a gesture of love and purity. With several options available and a lot to choose from, you definitely need to add this in your things to do in New York in December on priority.

Ready for December in New York? Discover Comfortable Student Housing for Your Winter Stay!

Book through amber today!

Visit Us

Christmas in New York is something one should definitely experience once in a lifetime. With its festive atmosphere and holiday events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you ever feel the holiday blues no worries as there is always something you can do in New York City. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time in New York City this December. And if all of these experiences make you want to move to New York, you can check out our New York student housing guide. Also, check out this blog to know some amazing things to do in Manhattan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth visiting New York in December?

It is definitely worth visiting and exploring the best things to do in New York in December. Holidays might be a wonderful time to travel to New York if you appreciate them.

How cold is it usually in December in New York?

Daytime highs are around 43F (6C), and overnight lows are typically 32F. (0C). Even though it won't be as chilly as January and February, you should still bundle up! In December, the average number of days with below-freezing temperatures.

Is Christmas in New York worth it?

New York during Christmas is amazing and magical. One should experience Christmas in New York at least once in their lifetime.

Do you have to pay to see the Christmas tree in NYC?

No, you see the Christmas Trees, such as Rockefeller, for free.

How much does skating at Rockefeller cost?

Depending on the day, date, and age, the price per person ranges from $11 to $73. Rental skates cost $11 per day.

Unlock your free flight ticket

Your ideal student home & a flight ticket awaits

Claim now
Entertainment

Follow us on :

share-insta-icon

Instagram

Facebook

share-tw-icon

Twitter

share-linkedIn-icon

LinkedIn

Copy Link

Share on Facebook

Twitter-share

Share on Twitter

LinkedIn-share

Share on LinkedIn

copy-icon

Share

Share Now:

Copy Link

Link Copied

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

cta
cta

Related Posts

Interests

30 Amazing Things To Do In NYC At Night

April 24, 2025
|
10 min
Interests

Top 15 Female Tiktok Influencers to Follow in 2025

April 23, 2025
|
5 min read
Interests

10 Best Books On Focus & Concentration

April 23, 2025
|
6 MIN
Get access to exclusive deals
Only the best deals reach your inbox
Thank you for subscribing to Amber's Updates
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
London
United Kingdom
Dublin
Ireland
Melbourne
Australia
New York City
United States
Frankfurt
Germany
Barcelona
Spain
Toronto
Canada
Birmingham
United Kingdom
Brisbane
Australia
Chicago
United States
Cork
Ireland
Hamburg
Germany
Montreal
Canada
Leicester
United Kingdom
Sydney
Australia
Austin
United States
Vancouver
Canada
Nottingham
United Kingdom
Adelaide
Australia
Houston
United States
Liverpool
United Kingdom
Perth
Australia
San Francisco
United States
Coventry
United Kingdom
Canberra
Australia
Boston
United States
Sheffield
United Kingdom
Gold Coast
Australia
Dallas
United States
Leeds
United Kingdom
Coffs Harbour
Australia
Washington DC
United States
Newcastle Upon Tyne
United Kingdom
Philadelphia
United States
Manchester
United Kingdom
College Station
United States
Cardiff
United Kingdom
Los Angeles
United States
Swansea
United Kingdom
Lubbock
United States
arrow
Top 20 Things To Do In New York In December
8 min
You'll love these as well
Similar
arrow
Thanksgiving Decor Ideas
Discover 20 Simple Yet Amazing Thanksgiving Decor Ideas For This Year
Nov 6, 2923
|
Interests
|
4 min
10 Must-Try Traditional Food in the UK!
10 Must-Try Traditional Foods in the UK for an Authentic Taste
Jan 20, 2025
|
Interests
|
7 min read
New York Music Festivals
Top 15 New York Music Festivals You Can't Miss
Dec 16, 2024
|
Interests
|
11 min read
Clubs in New York City
Top 20 Clubs in New York City to Vibe in 2025!
Oct 2, 2024
|
Interests
|
10 min read
Top 20 Cambridge University Notable Alumni!
Top 20 Cambridge University Notable Alumni!
Sep 25, 2024
|
Interests
|
10 min read
Top 11 Most Popular Sports In The US
Top 11 Most Popular Sports In The US
Sep 17, 2024
|
Interests
|
7 min
Tab 1
Tab 2
Tab 3
Tab 4
Tab 5
Tab 6
Tab 7

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by students

Trustpilot
Get the app
Payment Options
Company
AboutHow it worksRefer a friendGroup BookingNewList with usNewPartner with usNewCareersWe are hiring!
Discover
BlogPodcastNewsroomAmber PlusMedia MentionAmbassadorScholarshipsApply NowExamsNewSite Map
Support
Help CentreContact UsT&CPrivacy PolicySitemap
Contact Us
+44 7400314942
contact@amberstudent.com
WhatsApp
40 E Main St # 1215 Newark 19711-4639 Delaware
Follow us on:

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by Students

Trustpilot
Get the app
Payment Options:
Company
AboutHow it worksRefer a friendGroup BookingNewList with usNewPartner with usNewCareersWe are hiring!Site Map
Discover
BlogPodcastNewsroomAmber PlusMedia MentionAmbassadorScholarshipsApply NowExamsNewSite Map
Support
Help CentreContact UsT&CPrivacy PolicySitemap
Contact us
+44 7400314942
contact@amberstudent.com
WhatsApp
40 E Main St # 1215 Newark 19711-4639 Delaware
Follow us on:

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by Students

Trustpilot
Get the app
Payment Options:
Company
AboutHow it worksRefer a friendGroup BookingNewList with usNewPartner with usNewCareersWe are hiring!Site Map
Discover
BlogPodcastNewsroomAmber PlusMedia MentionAmbassadorScholarshipsApply NowExamsNewSite Map
Support
Help CentreContact UsT&CPrivacy PolicySitemap
Contact us
+44 7400314942
contact@amberstudent.com
WhatsApp
40 E Main St # 1215 Newark 19711-4639 Delaware
Follow us on:
Download the amber app
Start your journey from here!
More than 1.25 million beds available in 600 cities
Scan The QR to download the App
app QR
You can directly download from
play storeapp store
100% Verified Listings
Quick and Easy Bookings
Price Match Guarantee
24x7 Personal Assistance
£20 cashback on the app!
Scan to Download App
4.5/5
180K+ Downloads
Download from
Share