As a third-generation Manhattan born and bred, I have a unique perspective on the Holiday season in New York City. I have spent 47 years taking in everything the City That Never Sleeps has to offer during the holiday season, from one-off events and pop-ups to perennial favorites. So, this year I have been tasked with our editorial and publishing teams to provide our readers with the best and brightest this yule tide season has to offer.
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanza, Festivus, or any other celebratory reason this November and December, everyone at New York Lifestyles Magazine wishes you a very Happy and Healthy Holiday Season.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The annual parade that traditionally serves as the kickoff to the Holiday Season runs from 9 am until noon on Thanksgiving Day. Broadcast on NBC (and streaming on Peacock), the parade this year will feature 21 balloons, 25 floats, 29 “clown crews,” marching bands, Broadway performances and more.
And don’t forget the Macy’s Balloon Inflation Event on Wednesday, November 22nd from 12 – 6 pm on the Upper West Side.
Info: macys.com
Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting
The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be lit on Wednesday, November 29th this year on NBC (and streaming on Peacock). This year’s “Christmas at Rockefeller Center” celebration will include music performances by some of today’s hottest music and stage acts. And, of course, the star of the night, the legendary tree, will be lit. Typically, the telecast runs from
8 – 10 pm.
Elf Screening at Empire State Building
Buddy the Elf takes to Manhattan to find his father whose office is in the Empire State Building in this hilarious comedy starring Will Ferrell, the late James Caan, Zoey Deschanel and many more. Three different showings will be Sunday, December 3rd, 10th, and 17th. Info: esbnyc.com/movie-tickets
Lincoln Center Tree Lighting
Lincoln Center’s annual tree lighting, a multi-cultural celebration of light, will take place in early December on Lincoln Center’s Josie Robertson Plaza. Admission is free and refreshments will be served after the event. Info: lincolncenter.org
Bank of America Winter Village at
Bryant Park
The Bank of America Winter Village is returning this year with an ice rink, a rink-side hospitality lodge, holiday shops for that last minute gift, cozy igloos to celebrate with your friends, bumper cars on ice and many more. The ice rink is open now through March 3, 2024.
Info: bryantpark.org
Dyker Heights Holiday Lights
Every year, the Lights and Decorations in Dyker Heights Brooklyn officially begins the day after Thanksgiving, making the start date for this year November 24th. Until the end of December, the neighborhood undergoes a remarkable transformation, with the major houses fully adorned with captivating holiday lights and decorations. These major houses ensure that the neighborhood remains a vibrant and mesmerizing holiday spectacle.
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Experience the magic of Lightscape! The after-dark, illuminated trail returns to Brooklyn with brand new works of art and promises an even more immersive and magical experience for visitors of all ages. Explore the beauty of the Garden under moonlight while enjoying seasonal treats and festive music. There is no better way to celebrate winter and the holiday season with friends and family!
Info: bbg.org/lightscape.
It’s worth noting that while the smaller houses in the neighborhood also participate in this grand display, they typically start turning on their lights from mid-December. But don’t let that deter you from visiting earlier, as the overall experience is still magical from the end of November.
Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
Ice skating on The Rink under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of New York’s quintessential winter activities. The Rink sets the perfect scene for every occasion, from ice skating lessons and special events to the Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill. It’s a tradition that has never failed to delight, and you’re always invited to join in on the fun. Info: rockefellercenter.com