If you’ve been following along here at kelseyybarnes.com, then you know that I’m a very festive person. I love holidays, and I love having a reason to celebrate. There’s nothing better to me than finding something fun and festive to do in my favorite cities.
While I currently live in Amsterdam (holiday activities there in this post), I have also spent a lot of holiday time in NYC. I lived in the city for a few years before moving to the Netherlands, and for the past two years I’ve been back in December. NYC is one of my favorite cities during the holidays. Everything is very festive and there are so many fun things to do.
If you’re looking for all the best holiday activities in NYC, keep reading. Wishing you a wonderful and magical holiday season.
Xx, Kelsey
HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES IN NYC
Visit the Christmas markets – While the markets in NYC don’t compare to those in Europe, they’re still a fun holiday activity I always make sure to incorporate into my trips. Bryant Park is one of my favorites, along with Union Square. Make sure to get a steaming hot cup of apple cider while you walk around the stalls from local vendors.
Go ice skating – As a former figure skater, I can’t leave this one off my list of holiday activities in NYC. New York has so many rinks to offer and a lot of them have fun Christmas skating shows. Bryant Park lets you skate for free if you have your own skates. Central Park and Rockefeller Center are NYC classics. My recommendation is to go right at opening hours. There will usually be far fewer people for the first hour or so. It’s the perfect time to get a great photo or skate around without fighting your way through hundreds of people.
Marvel at the Rockettes – The Rockettes are a holiday activity that can’t be missed in NYC. They start performing their Christmas Spectacular in November. The Rockettes are fabulous dancers and the show is fun for all ages.
Visit a rooftop winter wonderland – Serra by Birreria is one of the best holiday dining experiences in NYC. The rooftop restaurant at Eataly is changed seasonally and each winter becomes a magical winter wonderland. Make sure to make reservations early, as they book up fast.
See the Nutcracker – The New York City Ballet is one of the best in the world, and to see them perform the Nutcracker is a magical experience. Tickets sell out very fast, especially for weekend shows. Book as far in advance as you can.
Shop for Christmas gifts – Everyone knows the shopping in NYC is to die for. My recommendation is to start along 5th avenue. It’ll be packed, but it’s always worth it to see the lights at Tiffany, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Cartier. Then make your way to the new Nordstrom on 57th. Head straight to the bar on the shoe floor and grab a glass of champagne while you hide from the crowds.
Dine at an NYC Christmas staple – Rolf’s German Restaurant is probably one of the most famous Christmas restaurants in NYC. It’s actually been on my list to visit for a long time. The restaurant basically looks like someone threw up Christmas inside. Not sure how good the food is, but it would be so fun to check out.
