Jingle all the way to the most enchanting holiday hotspots in the city that never sleeps! If you’re on the hunt for the top Christmas in New York events, you’ve landed in the right spot. Every December, the Big Apple undergoes a magical transformation, offering a festive playground for holiday enthusiasts. From the festively decorated restaurants to immersive art installations and gingerbread workshops, NYC has it all. Join us as we unwrap the magic and present our curated guide to the top Christmas in New York events!
Christmas in New York Events: Disney’s The Santa Clauses at Pier 17.
Let’s make santamental memories! Get ready to slide into the season at The Santa Clauses on The Rooftop at Pier 17! Santa’s elves and Disney worked their magic to turn this rooftop into his North Pole headquarters. Explore Santa’s sleigh, book a cabin dinner, and warm up at Judy’s Hot Cocoa-inspired café. You can also glide onto a synthetic skating rink – it’s as almost cool as the North Pole itself! VIPs, head to the North Pole VIP Lounge for hot drinks. Unforgettable holiday vibes await with skating, treats, and a meet-and-greet with the big man himself! Don’t miss the Gingerbread Bar, cozy pics by the fireplace, and Santa’s Sleigh.
Meet Santa every December weekend from 11 am to 7 pm. Whether you’re hitting the ice, indulging in treats, or scoring a selfie with the big man, make this holiday season a blast at Pier 17, one of the best Christmas in New York events.
89 South St, New York, NY 10038
Monday to Sunday: 10AM to 11PM.
Tickets: $20-$65
Dates: Nov 22 to Jan 7
- General Admission tickets include Welcome Hot Chocolate
- VIP tickets include: Fast Pass Entrance, Skate Rental for synthetic rink, Santa Hat, Hot Chocolate, & exclusive entry to North Pole VIP Lounge
- Kids 4 and under receive free General Admission entry
- Skating is included with VIP admission only; on-site it is $5/person
Christmas in New York Events: Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark
Get ready to SLEIGH your way into the holiday spirit at Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark. Step into a world of holiday enchantment, where every corner sparkles with festive magic. The air is filled with the aroma of delicious holiday cocktails and hot chocolate, just waiting to be sipped as you toast to the season’s cheer. But that’s not all! Glide through the air on a charming sleigh ride, twirl around on the carousel, and make sure to claim your moment in Santa’s chair for that perfect holiday snapshot.
And of course, no visit is complete without meeting the man in red himself! Whether you’re a wide-eyed kid or a young-at-heart adult, this wonderland is one of the best Christmas in New York events.
78 South St, New York, NY 10038
Monday to Thursday: 4PM to 11PM | Friday 2PM to 12AM | Saturday 12PM to 12AM | Sunday 12PM to 11PM
Tickets: Starting at $22, chalet and glasshouse are additional fees
Dates: Nov 10 to Dec 30
- General Admission tickets include Access to photo moments + Santa Meet & Greet, 1 Hot chocolate or cider (regular or spiked) and 1 Snack Shack Item (warm pretzel, cinnamon sugar churros, or velvet chocolate chip cookies)
- VIP tickets include: Skip the line access on the VIP Line, Souvenir Festive Santa Hats,Access to photo moments + Santa Meet & Greet, 1 Hot chocolate or cider (regular or spiked) and 1 Snack Shack Item (warm pretzel, cinnamon sugar churros, or velvet chocolate chip cookies)
- Kids 3 and under receive free General Admission entry
Seating Options:
- Chalet: High-top seating for 2 or 4 people (large communal heated glasshouse)
- Glasshouse: Waterfront Tables for 2, 4, or up to 6 people
- Private glasshouse: available for 2 or up to 10 people.
Christmas in New York Events: Elsie Rooftop
Orna-meant to be! Elsie has transformed into a Christmas rooftop where the holiday spirit is shaken, not stirred! The star of our evening was a cocktail ornament tower with three signature drinks that sleigh the competition. Rudolph waltzed in with Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Cranberry, Dragon fruit, and Lemon. The Grinch joined the party with a mix of Grapefruit & Rose Vodka, Midori, Sour Apple, Honey, and Lemon. Jack Frost breezed in with a coconut-infused blend of Rum, Vanilla Bean, and Coquito.
We enjoyed these festive concoctions while we savored the Bianca Flatbread, the Margherita Flatbread, and Beef Sliders with cheddar and caramelized onions. Here’s to sipping, savoring, and sleighing the night away at one of the best Christmas rooftops in New York events.
1412 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
Tuesday to Wednesday: 5PM to 12AM | Thursday 5PM to 2PM | Friday to Saturday 5PM to 4AM | Sunday 11AM to 12AM
Dates: Nov 29 to Dec 31
Christmas in New York Events: Glass Ceiling
Walking into the Glass Ceiling Rooftop during the holidays is like teleporting to a Christmas paradise floating above the city! The rooftop is decked out in the most enchanting holiday decorations that mix glamour with all the seasonal charm you can imagine. Now, here’s the real star of the show – the Cocktail Tower. Imagine four drinks that are basically liquid holiday spirit, all mirroring the rooftop’s eclectic vibes. And let’s not forget about the food – we shared delicious flatbreads and a hearty burger. If you are in the Flatiron/Nomad neighborhood, make sure to add this to your list of Christmas in New York events.
1412 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
Tuesday to Friday: 4PM to 10PM | Saturday 11AM to 10PM | Sunday 11AM to 8PM
Dates: Nov 29 to Dec 31
Christmas in New York Events: Holly Jolly at Mad Morton
Dive into the holly, jolly magic at The Holly Jolly Holiday Bar! Picture-perfect tinsel and trimmings create the backdrop for your festive memories. It’s not just a pop-up; it’s a full-throttle immersion into holiday enchantment. Gather under twinkling lights, warming up with highlight cocktails like the “Under the Mistletoe Margarita” – a zesty blend of tequila, lime, and orange liqueur. For a sparkling touch, sip on the “Home for the Holidays” featuring gin, lemon, and honey Prosecco. Each ticket unlocks a 90-minute reservation and a sip of holiday joy. Get ready for unforgettable moments in this festive haven where good times and cheers abound at one of the best Christmas in New York events.
47 7th Ave South, New York, NY 10014
Wednesday to Friday: 5:00PM to 12:30AM | Saturday and Sunday: 11:00AM to 12:30AM (sessions are 90 minutes long, restaurant closed Mondays and Tuesdays; restaurant open longer for regular dining experience).
Tickets: $22
Dates: Nov 24 to Dec 30
Christmas in New York Events: Frosty’s
Frosty’s Christmas Bar is back, and it’s snow much better! With cocktails that sleigh and a festive vibe that’s ice-solation-worthy, this season’s celebration is next level. Immerse yourself in interactive holiday photo ops. The lights, the music, the merriment – Frosty’s keeps the party going late into the night. So, grab your crew, don your coziest holiday sweater, and get ready to have your Christmas stockings rocked at Frosty’s Christmas Bar! There are three stories of photo ops and so many festive cocktails to enjoy. Santa, the Grinch and the rest of the crew make an appearance too. If you are in Times Square, make sure to stop by Frosty’s, one of the best Christmas in New York events.
220 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
Monday to Thursday: 6:00PM to 12:00AM | Friday and Saturday: 12:00PM to 1:30AM | Sunday: 12:00PM to 10:00PM
Tickets: Starting at $36
Dates: Dec 1 to Dec 31
- Santas Helper: Entry + Hat
- Jolly & Bright: Entry + Lightbulb Necklace
- Blitzen Bunch: Entry + Hat + Lightbulb Necklace
- Frosty’s Christmas Bar NYC: Entry
Christmas in New York Events: Tea Around Town Winter Edition
Steeped in winter vibes, the Tea Around Town Winter Experience by Top View Sight Seeing is rolling into the season with a new bus wrap and indoor decor that’s snow much more than your average tea time! Sip, savor, and sightsee in your own personal mobile tea oasis. Cozy up in our plush tea-mobile adorned with white boas, flowers, faux fur, and winter berries – it’s like a warm hug away from the chilly chaos of the streets!
This is a sip-sational journey through sight, sound, and of course, taste! We enjoyed exquisite teas and Prosecco with mouth-watering tearoom classics. We’re talking traditional tea sandwiches, scones, eclairs, mini cheesecakes and more. This is such a fun way to explore NYC this holiday season. Best of all you’ll be warm and cozy indoors, while still seeing many of Midtown’s iconic landmark locations. Use the code TWINSPIRATIONAL5 to save 5%. Read more about one of the best Christmas in New York events. here.
11 W 42nd St | New York, NY 10036
Monday to Thursday: 90 minutes from 11:00AM to 5:30PM | Friday to Sunday: 11:00AM to 7:30PM
Dates: Open daily
Tickets: Start at $69 for Standard and $109 for VIP
Christmas in New York Events: Lillie’s Victorian
All I want for Christmas is to go to Lillie’s Victorian. In the heart of Union Square, Lillie’s transforms into a holiday wonderland every year. The place is decked out from top to bottom – Santa, Mrs. Claus, ornaments, stockings, Christmas lights, wreaths, you name it! And the trick to immerse fully? Wear red!
Our holiday festivities began with sipping white sangria from a teapot, served in Lillies’ iconic teacups – talk about a jaw-dropping presentation! Then came the nachos with chicken and those incredible fish tacos. For the mains, we savored the truffle gnocchi and roasted chicken, perfectly complemented by Helena Molonia and Amistad Leal.
Dessert was a creamy cheesecake and fried ice cream. Talk about an unbelievable meal. Lillie’s isn’t just a spot for a holiday meal; it’s also perfect for a festive happy hour. Last year, we cozied up at the bar, sipping wine and munching on nachos with our girlfriends. This is our favorite festive restaurant and one of the best Christmas in New York events.
13 East 17th Street, New York, NY 10003
Monday to Wednesday: 2:00PM to 1:00AM | Thursday to Friday: 2:00PM to 2:00AM | Saturday: 11:30AM to 2:00AM | Sunday: 11:30AM to 1:00AM
Dates: Nov 11 to Dec 31
Christmas in New York Events: A Pink Wonderland
Pink Wonderland amkes the season merry and oh-so-bright pink! Think Santa’s suit, but sassier. This ain’t your grandma’s Christmas bar. This sports bar gives tradition a millennial makeover, turning the holiday scene into a fab fiesta that’ll have Rudolph blushing. It’s not just a Christmas bar; it’s a Pink Wonderland where luscious pink hues meet festive flair. Picture Santa with rosy cheeks from a good laugh—that’s our festive palette! It’s not your typical winter wonderland; it’s a whimsical journey where tradition gets a chic upgrade.
Bounce’s decor is so enchanting; you’ll feel like you stumbled into a holiday fairy tale for grown-ups. Pink Wonderland isn’t just about Christmas; it’s about elves trading in their pointy shoes for stilettos. Say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to a holiday bash as chic as Mrs. Claus in her favorite sweater. Get ready to paint the town pink at one of the best Christmas in New York events.
55 W 21st St, New York, NY 10010
Monday to Friday: 6:00PM to 12:00AM | Saturday: 12:00PM to 2:00AM | Sunday: 12:00PM to 11:30PM
Dates: Nov 11 to Dec 31
Christmas in New York Events: The Museum of Broadway
I’m obsessed with musicals, but it might just be a stage. The Museum of Broadway, which opened its doors just last year is an immersive and interactive museum. The Museum of Broadway is a celebration of the illustrious history of Broadway, allowing visitors to traverse through its evolution from inception to the present day. What sets this museum apart is the unique opportunity to engage with some of the most iconic Broadway shows in unprecedented ways. It’s a harmonious blend of history, culture, and the sheer magic of the stage, making it an essential destination for anyone spellbound by the allure of Broadway.
130 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10016
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Tickets: Start at $34, Flex at $53, Child at $32, Senior at $35
Dates: Open, no end date
Christmas in New York Events: Cosmico
Merry Grinchmas! Looking for a holiday brunch without a crazy line? Then head over to Cosmico. They have the cutest holiday decor with the Grinch waiting to greet you. We ordered the Huevos Rancheros, Omelette, Avocado Toast and Pancakes. Our favorite was the pancakes but order them for the table and mix it up with the savory foods we ordered too. Make sure to add this to your list of the best Christmas in New York events.
43 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001
Monday to Wednesday: 5:00PM to 12:00AM | Thursday to Friday: 5:00PM to 2:30AM | Saturday: 11:30AM to 2:30AM | Sunday: 11:30AM to 10:00PM
Happy Hour: Tuesday to Saturday 5:00PM to 7:00PM
Ladies Night: Thursdays 7:00PM to 2:00AM
Dates: Nov 18 to Dec 31
Christmas in New York Events: Color Factory
Color Factory in Soho is shedding its usual hues and putting on a winter wonderglam show that’s cooler than a snowman in designer sunglasses. Brace yourself for the whimsical magic of Winter Colorland, where a snowman greets you, guiding you through an indoor sledding hill and a forest where confetti, not leaves, falls from the trees. Ride a ski lift through a confetti flurry, strut through a plaid confetti forest, and kick back on a sky lift chair.
The ball pit transforms into a snow-tally cool sledding spot. After a flurry of indoor fun, snuggle up with treats and keep an eye out for cool giveaways, like snowflakes in a blizzard. In this 20,000-square-foot holiday hotspot, snap away because Color Factory is here to sleigh the photo game. Whether you’re aiming for the perfect Christmas card pic or Insta-worthy moments, Color Factory’s got your back. Skip the frosty weather, and let it be your go-to indoor holiday adventure. You can see our full review here.
251 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Sunday to Thursday: 9:00AM to 6:00PM | Friday: 9:00AM to 7:00PM | Saturday: 11:00AM to 8:00PM
Tickets: Start at $39; $59 for flexible tickets
Dates: Nov 4 to Dec 31
Christmas in New York Events: Ready Rooftop
To ski or to après-ski, that is the question. This season, The Ready Rooftop has undergone a whimsical transformation into a magical ski chalet, and whether you’re a seasoned skier or just there for the après-ski vibes, this winter pop-up is an absolute must-see. The Ready Rooftop beckons with a plethora of enchanting photo opportunities, mouthwatering festive bites, and a delightful array of seasonal cocktails. It’s not just a destination; it’s a winter wonderland experience waiting to be explored and savored, making it the perfect escape for anyone seeking a touch of Alpine charm right in the heart of the city.
112 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003
Tuesday to Friday: 4:00PM to 11:00PM | Saturday and Sunday: 12:00PM to 11:00AM
Dates: Dec 5 to March TBD
Christmas in New York Events: Highwater Rooftop
You’re my ginger better half. Dive into the sweetest holiday adventure at Highwater Rooftop. We had so much fun at their Gingerbread House Making event! Until December 24th, you can craft your gingerbread masterpiece and spread the cheer with a 1.5-hour open bar, delightful decorations, and tasty appetizers. This festive activity is perfect for friends, family, or a date night. Snag tickets here.
120 Water Street, New York, NY 10005
Monday to Sunday: 5:00PM to 10:00PM
Tickets: $75
Dates: Dec 1 to Dec 24
Christmas in New York Events: The Friends Experience
I’ll be there for you. Dive into the festive spirit at The Friends Experience in NYC, where the iconic world of “Friends” meets the magic of Christmas. This immersive pop-up, located in the heart of the city, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Explore meticulously recreated sets, from the cozy ambiance of Central Perk adorned with holiday cheer to Monica’s apartment decked out in festive decor. The Friends Experience offers a unique opportunity for fans to relive classic moments while embracing the warmth of the holiday season. Make sure to add this to your list of Christmas in New York events.
130 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10016
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Tickets: Start at $46, Flex at $57, Premium at $62, Digital Photo Package at $39
Dates: Open, no end date
Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind.
Calvin Coolidge
There are so many events related to New Years and Christmas, and this is especially true in New York City! The options where I live are slightly less, but there is no shortage of things to do.
Cosmico would be my first stop, but honestly, I think anyone living or visiting NYC should just use this post as a guide for a complete holiday experience!
So fun to take advantage of these holiday celebrations in the city. These all look like great choices.
Very festive and amazing pictures, definitely great experience and you guys look great as well.
Nnniiccceeee…I’d love to experience Christmas in New York some day. I hear the city is well lit and decorated ahead of time. Happy holidays.