It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Nowhere is better than New York City around Christmastime; from Macy’s window shopping to admiring the tree at Rockefeller Center, there’s no denying that NYC is the most magical place to be during Christmas. Lockdown or not, Christmas still came along. And so did the snow. It was solemn, maybe a little lonely. But we weren’t all alone.
With the pandemic still weighing heavily on our shoulders, there’s been much speculation as to whether or not NYC Christmas festivities will still be happening this year. The answer is yes, they will be happening! There will be new health and safety precautions at the traditional Christmas exhibits in order to keep visitors safe, and it’s a bonus that most activities are already held outdoors.
If you’re new to the city or are visiting and are looking for some Christmastime magic, here are 5 festive Christmas activities to do in New York City during December!
1. The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center
If you’re visiting NYC during Christmastime, Rockefeller Center should be number one on your must-see list. This year the infamous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has traveled all the way from Oneonta, NY. Tourists and New Yorkers alike flock each year to see the marvelous tree, which stands at 75 feet tall!
2. Window Shopping at Herald Square
Every Christmas, large department stores such as Macy’s put on a spectacular holiday display in their store windows at Herald Square. Despite the pandemic, this holiday tradition is still on for this year.
This year’s windows will be dedicated to first responders and essential workers in order to pay tribute to those who have helped us through 2020. Since 2020 has been a tumultuous year, Macy’s windows at Herald Square will be a special tribute to the individuals who have made this year hopeful.
3. The Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park festivities are back this year in full swing! The Winter Village at Bryant Park consists of 60 different food and shopping spots. You’ll be sure to find numerous homemade gifts and trinkets for the perfect Christmas stocking stuffer.
After enjoying a hot chocolate at one of the many food kiosks, head over to the 17,000-foot ice skating rink located at the Park and enjoy a classic winter tradition. There’s something for everyone at the Winter Village!
4. The New York Botanical Garden
This Christmas tradition is brand new this year! This exhibit is outside and COVID safe. On 14 different evenings this holiday season, the The New York Botanical Gardens will be illuminated with spectacular LED lights. Other seasonal activities will be happening at the exhibit such as dance performances and ice carving. Get your tickets ahead of time so you don’t miss the festivities!
5. LuminoCity Festival
If you’re taking a trip to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree, be sure to stop at the LuminoCity Festival! This festival is only a few miles from Rockefeller Center and is a new tradition that began last year.
This exhibit consists of numerous light and art sculptures for an immersive 45-minute experience. The exhibits this year include Mysterious Forest, Dangerous Dunes, Forgotten Ruins, Hidden Land of Hria, and Mystical Moon Land. You’ll be immediately transported into a magical dimension at the LuminoCity Festival!
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