7 Things to Look Forward to in New York City this Holiday Season
The holidays are right around the corner and we are already in the festive spirit! It is truly our favorite time of the year in New York City. So with that in mind, here are seven Christmas in New York City things to look forward to.
Seeing Santa Claus at the end of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
P.C.: yelp, Vaishali J.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the world’s largest Thanksgiving parade and the second oldest. It is a lot of fun to see giant versions of your favorite characters coming down New York City streets but the real star and the big finish of the parade is Santa Claus! It signifies that the holiday season has begun! Also keep an eye out for Macy’s holiday window displays at their flagship store in Herald Square.
Admiring the Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Christmas tree is one of the world’s largest and easily one of the most iconic Christmas trees in the world. This year the tree is 72 feet tall and weighs 12 tons. It is quite the sight to behold and while you’re there, you can also skate around Rockefeller Center’s iconic ice rink!
Shopping at the Holiday Markets
The four biggest holiday markets in New York City are in Union Square, Bryant Park, Grand Central and Columbus Circle. You can find local shops and artisans here and these markets are great for finding the perfect gift for your friends and family. While shopping you can also find some interesting things for lunch!
Watching the Nutcracker at Lincoln Center
P.C.: nycballet.com, Paul Kolnik
The Nutcracker ballet is a timeless Christmas classic. The music, the intricate choreography, the beautiful sets and the costumes really can get you into the holiday mood. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is another great option.
Hoping for a White Christmas
There are few things more picturesque than a white Christmas in New York City. Plus snow can be a lot of fun too! You can build a snowman, go sledding and our favorite, seeing our dogs just go crazy in it.
Getting a Hot Chocolate
Mmmm… a good hot chocolate just hits the spot on a cold winter day. Our favorite spots for hot chocolate in New York City are Jacques Torres Chocolate (350 Hudson St & Other Locations) and Max Brenner (841 Broadway).
Riding MTA’s Holiday Train
Finally every year we try to find and ride MTA’s holiday nostalgia train. Riding these vintage 1930’s subway trains are like stepping back in time and best of all it only costs the usual subway fare of $2.75. This train will run every Sunday after Thanksgiving and until New Year’s Day and it will run on the F train line.