2024 Holiday Activities in NYC

 

2024 Holiday Activities in NYC 

 

 

There is nothing like being in NYC for the holidays. Nothing like seeing the tree at Rockefeller Center, enjoying the holiday lights, or seeing the Rockettes Holiday Spectacular. From holiday markets to holiday lights, below is a roundup of some of the fun things you can do around town this year!

Union Square Holiday Market

 

Dates: November 14 - December 23

Location: Union Square Park, New York, NY

Of course there are holiday markets all around the city, but the Union Square market really cannot be beat. With 185 vendors, this market is sure to have that perfectly unique gift for your love one. 

 

 

 

Rockettes Christmas Spectacular

 

Dates: Now - January 5

Location: 1260 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY

You can’t talk about holiday fun in the city without mentioning the Rockettes. This 90-minute show is the perfect palette cleanser to the dreary winter weather. The show will have you kick-lining your way all the way home. 

 

 



Private Heated Bubble at Route 66 Smokehouse

 

Dates: Bookings available December - January but could be extended

 

Location: 79 Pearl Street, New York, NY

A must this chilly season is a private dining experience in a heated bubble! If you have never seen one, these adorable little bubble enclosures, sometimes referred to as igloos, give you a private warm heated dining experience that is outside but also shielded from the elements. At Route 66 there are two bubble options, the Bubble Tent or the VIP Bubble, both can be reserved via phone or Resy. Both versions offer a small private bubble in their outdoor space on Stone St., equipped with mini electric fireplaces to keep you warm, blankets, as well as food and beverage service. Additionally, the VIP option includes a personal TV to stream sports or play Classic Nintendo (console provided), and games such as Jenga and Connect 4. The standard is great for 2-10 guests while the VIP is a minimum of 4.  No matter which bubble you choose, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

 

 

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights 

 

Dates: November 22 - January 5

 

Location: The Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY

 

Treat yourself to a nighttime walk through the zoo! This family friendly event includes light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns, animated light shows, seasonal treats, and a Holiday Train. 

 

New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

 

Dates: November 16 - January 20

 

Location: 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY

 

This train and light show is another great holiday excursion. With over 190 replicas of New York landmarks and incredible miniature trains zipping by this train show is a delight for kids and adults alike. But the festivities don’t stop there, after you check out the trains make sure to check out NYC’s largest outdoor holiday light experience at NYBG GLOW with thousands of lights reflecting the surrounding garden. 

 

Brooklyn Botanical Garden Lightscape

 

Dates: November 22 - January 5

 

Location: Brooklyn Botanical Garden

 

There is nothing like going to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, it is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without having to go far. This holiday season try exploring the garden with hot chocolate in hand under the winter moonlight. The holiday Lightscape event is unlike any other and include 17 works of light, a curated musical soundscape, and concessions stands along the way with delicious drink and treat options (many are cashless so make sure to have a credit card handy). With the backdrop of the garden enhanced by the beautiful light show that is Lightscape you will leave feeling renewed and exhilerated. 

 

 

 

 

The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland Experience

 

Dates: Now - December 31

 

Location: Watermark at Pier 15, NY, NY

 

Inspired by the new Disney+ series The Santa Clauses, this pop up is an immersive North Pole experience. You can begin by strolling through Santa’s home, curling up by the fire in his living room, then head to The Gingerbread House for a sweet treat or a cocktail/mocktail, enjoy Santa’s smores at the Glass House (reservation needed), or simply go for Santa’s Brunch every Saturday and Sunday (reservation needed). 

 

Written by Kate Roth