Christmas Week in New York City: Your Complete Guide to Holiday Celebrations, Dining, and Activities
The week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day transforms New York City into a winter wonderland of possibilities. Whether you’re a local looking to break from routine or hosting out-of-town guests, the days surrounding Christmas offer a unique blend of festive traditions, quieter moments, and exciting activities that only appear during this magical time of year.
This guide covers everything you need to know about celebrating Christmas week in NYC—from securing last-minute dinner reservations to discovering hidden winter activities that locals forget about until it’s too late.
Things You Want to Do During Christmas Week in NYC
Experience the Iconic Christmas Light Displays
The Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn remain one of the city’s most spectacular free attractions. The neighborhood, particularly along 11th to 13th Avenues between 83rd and 86th Streets, features elaborate home displays that run through early January. Peak viewing hours are 5 PM to 9 PM, though crowds thin considerably after December 26th. Street parking fills quickly on weekends, so consider taking the D train to 79th Street or booking a guided tour that handles transportation.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stays lit through early January with extended viewing hours. The tree lighting ceremony runs from 5:30 AM to midnight daily, with the iconic ice skating rink below operating from 9 AM to midnight most days (check specific hours for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as they vary). Rink admission is $35-$40 for adults with skate rentals included, and you can book timed sessions online to avoid the longest lines.
Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood also offers impressive residential displays along Shore Road and Colonial Road, providing a less crowded alternative to Dyker Heights. The promenade along Shore Road offers stunning views of the Verrazzano Bridge illuminated for the holidays.
Catch Holiday Performances and Entertainment
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes typically runs through early January, with multiple shows daily during Christmas week. Tickets range from $49 to $299 depending on seating and date. The 90-minute show works well for families, though children under two are not permitted in the theater.
The New York City Ballet performs George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center through early January. Evening performances start at 7 PM or 8 PM, with matinees at 1 PM or 2 PM on select days. Ticket prices range from $35 for fourth ring seats to over $200 for orchestra seating. Book directly through the David H. Koch Theater for the best selection.
Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center host various holiday concerts during Christmas week, from classical orchestras to jazz ensembles. Check their websites for specific December 24-31 programming, as schedules change annually. Many performances offer rush tickets or standing room options for budget-conscious attendees.
Visit Winter Markets and Holiday Pop-Ups
The Union Square Holiday Market typically operates through December 24th, with some vendors extending into the days after Christmas for post-holiday sales. The market features over 150 vendors selling handmade gifts, artisan foods, and unique jewelry. Hours are usually 11 AM to 8 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 8 PM on weekends, though check specific dates as Christmas week hours may vary.
Bryant Park’s Winter Village combines a holiday market with a free ice skating rink (skate rentals cost $20-$22). The market section features dozens of boutique vendors in heated shops, while The Lodge restaurant offers warming drinks and seasonal food. The rink and market typically operate through early January, though holiday week hours may be modified—verify before visiting.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market at the southwest entrance to Central Park runs through early January. This smaller market focuses on international artisans and operates from 10 AM to 8 PM most days. The location makes it easy to combine with a Central Park winter walk.
Explore Museum Holiday Exhibits
The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers special holiday programming and maintains regular hours throughout most of Christmas week, though it closes on Christmas Day. The iconic Christmas tree in the Medieval Sculpture Hall and the elaborate nativity display are annual traditions. Suggested admission is $30 for adults, with timed entry tickets recommended to avoid long waits. The museum stays open until 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
The American Museum of Natural History features its origami holiday tree in the Grand Gallery and hosts special planetarium shows during Christmas week. The museum closes on Christmas Day but operates on modified hours December 26-30. Admission is $28 for adults with additional fees for special exhibitions and planetarium shows. Book timed tickets online in advance.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Fridays from 4 PM to 8 PM, making it an affordable option during Christmas week. The museum closes on Christmas Day but maintains regular hours (10:30 AM to 5:30 PM) on other days. The sculpture garden provides a peaceful winter retreat.
Things You Need to Do During Christmas Week in NYC
Secure Restaurant Reservations for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Christmas Eve dining in New York City requires advance planning, as many restaurants book solid weeks ahead. Most upscale establishments offer special multi-course menus ranging from $85 to $250 per person, often with mandatory wine pairings. Popular neighborhoods like the West Village, Upper East Side, and Tribeca fill fastest.
For Christmas Day dining, your options narrow considerably as many restaurants close to give staff time with family. Those that do open typically offer limited menus and modified hours, often serving brunch from 11 AM to 3 PM and dinner from 5 PM to 9 PM. Major hotels like The Plaza, The Carlyle, and The St. Regis operate their restaurants with special holiday menus.
Chinatown and Little Italy remain reliable options for Christmas Day dining, with many establishments maintaining regular hours or close to it. Dim sum restaurants in Chinatown often don’t take reservations, operating on a first-come basis, so arrive before noon for the best selection.
If you’re looking for Southeast Asian flavors during the holiday week, Walung Kitchen in the East Village offers a welcoming alternative to traditional Christmas fare. The Nepalese and Tibetan-inspired menu provides a warm, flavorful experience for those seeking something different during the holiday season.
Order To-Go Meals and Catering for Holiday Gatherings
Many New York restaurants offer Christmas dinner to-go, but ordering deadlines typically fall between December 18-22. Whole Foods, Eataly, and Zabar’s provide complete turkey or ham dinners serving 6-10 people for $150-$300. Orders must be placed online at least 3-4 days in advance, with pickup windows on December 23-24.
Russ & Daughters, Barney Greengrass, and Murray’s Bagels offer Jewish deli platters ideal for Christmas morning or casual gatherings. Smoked fish platters, bagel assortments, and sides feed 8-12 people for $120-$200. These require 48-72 hour advance orders during the holiday rush.
For those hosting larger gatherings December 26-30, consider restaurants that offer family-style catering with 24-48 hour notice. Many Italian restaurants in Little Italy and the Bronx’s Arthur Avenue provide trays of pasta, chicken, and vegetables serving 10-15 people for $150-$250.
Stock Up Before Grocery Stores Modify Hours
Most New York grocery stores operate on modified schedules during Christmas week. Whole Foods locations typically close early (6 PM-8 PM) on Christmas Eve and remain closed Christmas Day, reopening with regular hours on December 26th. Trader Joe’s follows similar patterns, often closing at 5 PM on Christmas Eve.
Key Foods, Associated, and other neighborhood markets maintain more flexible hours, with some locations open limited hours even on Christmas Day. Call your local store to confirm specific holiday schedules, as they vary by location.
Fairway Market locations usually close on Christmas Day but operate normal hours December 26-30. Stock up on essentials by December 23rd if you’re planning to cook during the quiet days after Christmas. Deliveries through Instacart and Amazon Fresh may face delays or limited windows during December 24-25.
Arrange Childcare or Family Activities for the In-Between Days
The days between December 26-30 present a unique challenge for working parents, as many schools and daycare centers remain closed while workplaces reopen. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum, New York Hall of Science, and Children’s Museum of Manhattan offer special programming during this period, with hours typically running 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission ranges from $13-$18 per child.
Chelsea Piers offers day camps and drop-in activities for children ages 3-14 during the holiday week. Options include rock climbing, gymnastics, ice skating, and trampoline parks. Half-day sessions run $75-$125, with full-day camps ranging from $150-$200. Registration opens in early November and popular time slots fill quickly.
The YMCA locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn offer holiday break camps with swimming, games, and activities for $50-$85 per day. Most require advance registration and fill by mid-December for the Christmas week period.
Things You Forget You Want to Do During Christmas Week in NYC
Enjoy the Quiet Magic of Post-Christmas NYC
December 26-30 offers a rare window when New York City slows down. Many tourists have left, locals are still off work, and the city takes on a peaceful quality rarely experienced otherwise. This is the perfect time to visit normally crowded attractions without the chaos.
Central Park becomes especially serene during these days. The Conservatory Garden in East Harlem remains open and offers a contemplative winter landscape. Belvedere Castle provides panoramic views without summer crowds. The park’s southern end near Columbus Circle features some of the best people-watching as locals emerge for walks.
Walk the High Line without shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. The elevated park offers unique perspectives on Chelsea and Hudson Yards, with winter landscaping creating a stark beauty different from summer’s lushness. The park opens at 7 AM, and early morning visits provide solitude even during holiday week.
Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway sees lighter traffic December 26-29, making it ideal for photos without photobombs. Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light, and take time to stop at the Manhattan and Brooklyn-side plazas that are usually too crowded to linger in.
Discover Cozy Coffee Shops and Bookstores
Strand Bookstore on Broadway and 12th Street maintains regular hours throughout Christmas week (closed only on Christmas Day). The iconic independent bookstore offers 18 miles of books across three floors, with plenty of seating for browsing. The Rare Book Room on the third floor provides a quiet escape, while the street level features staff recommendations and new releases.
McNally Jackson Books in Nolita offers a cafe upstairs with coffee, pastries, and light lunch options alongside an excellent book selection. It’s a perfect spot to spend a quiet afternoon reading or gift wrapping purchases. Hours are typically 10 AM to 9 PM, with possible modifications on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Kinokuniya Bookstore in Bryant Park features Japanese books, stationery, and gifts across multiple floors. The cafe on the third floor serves Japanese teas and snacks, providing a peaceful break from holiday rush. The store maintains regular hours through most of Christmas week.
Housing Works Bookstore Cafe in SoHo combines used books, a full cafe menu, and cozy seating in a historic building. Proceeds support homeless New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS. Weekend brunch is especially popular, with live music some evenings.
Experience Holiday-Themed Bar Crawls and Festive Cocktails
Miracle on 9th Street returns annually to Loisaida Inc. on Avenue C, transforming into an over-the-top Christmas bar with themed cocktails, decorations covering every surface, and holiday music. The pop-up typically runs through December 31st, with peak crowds on weekends. Arrive before 7 PM on busy nights or expect waits.
Rolf’s German Restaurant on Third Avenue maintains year-round Christmas decorations but goes into overdrive for the actual season. The bar area serves German beers and mulled wine without the dining room’s reservation requirements. The spectacle alone makes it worth a visit.
The Standard High Line’s Top of the Standard typically hosts holiday programming with seasonal cocktails and Manhattan views. The 18th-floor venue charges no cover but enforces a dress code (no sneakers or athletic wear). Reservations recommended for large groups.
The Fulton in the Financial District offers craft cocktails in a more intimate setting, with a fireplace and leather seating that feels especially welcoming during winter. They often feature winter-spiced drinks and seasonal small plates during Christmas week.
Take Advantage of Post-Christmas Sales and Returns
SoHo and Fifth Avenue shopping districts see major sales starting December 26th, with discounts ranging from 30-70% off fall and winter merchandise. Stores like Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Macy’s extend their hours during this period, often opening at 8 AM and closing at 10 PM.
The Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley (about an hour from Manhattan) offers additional discounts during the post-Christmas week. A bus service from Port Authority runs regularly for $40-$50 roundtrip. Plan to spend at least 4-5 hours shopping, as the outlet center includes over 200 stores.
Brooklyn’s Atlantic Terminal Mall and Queens’ Queens Center provide more accessible options for those staying within the boroughs. Both feature major retailers and typically offer extended hours December 26-30.
Return policies vary by store, but most accept returns through January 15th for December purchases. Bring receipts and original packaging when possible. Gift receipts allow exchanges but not always cash refunds—check specific store policies.
Catch Up on Award-Season Movies
The week between Christmas and New Year’s sees the release of many Oscar-contending films playing in limited release before wide January openings. Theaters like Angelika Film Center, IFC Center, Lincoln Plaza Cinema, and BAM Rose Cinemas feature independent and foreign films that may not play elsewhere.
AMC Lincoln Square includes an IMAX screen showing both blockbusters and select documentaries in the immersive format. The theater operates reserved seating, so booking online avoids sold-out shows. Matinee prices ($10-$14) make multiple movies in one day affordable.
Alamo Drafthouse in Downtown Brooklyn combines movies with a full menu and bar service. The theater enforces strict no-talking and no-phones policies, creating an optimal viewing experience. Holiday week screenings often include special programming like holiday classics and quote-along events.
Many theaters offer marathon passes or discount days during the slower midweek period of December 26-30. Check individual theater websites for specific promotions.
Things You Forget You Need to Do During Christmas Week in NYC
Plan Transportation for New Year’s Eve
If you’re staying in the city for New Year’s Eve, book transportation now. Taxis become impossible to find after 9 PM, and surge pricing on Uber and Lyft can reach 3-5x normal rates. The subway runs all night and adds extra trains, but expect extreme crowding in Manhattan, especially on the 1/2/3, N/Q/R/W, and 4/5/6 lines near Times Square.
Many hotels near Times Square offer package deals including room, dinner, and late checkout for $500-$2,000 per couple. These book months in advance, but last-minute cancellations sometimes open up availability in late December.
For those heading to outer boroughs for house parties, consider that many drivers stop accepting rides after 10 PM on New Year’s Eve or charge flat fees of $75-$150. Arrange car service in advance rather than hoping to find transportation last-minute.
The LIRR, Metro-North, and NJ Transit run extra late-night trains after midnight for suburban commuters. Check holiday schedules published in mid-December for specific departure times.
Schedule Appointments for Holiday Week Self-Care
Spas and salons book solid during Christmas week as people prepare for New Year’s celebrations or simply seek relaxation during time off. Aire Ancient Baths in Tribeca offers thermal bath experiences with massage add-ons for $95-$300 per person. Sessions run 60-90 minutes, with couples packages available. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance during holiday periods.
Great Jones Spa in NoHo features a water lounge with thermal pool, sauna, and steam room included with all services. Basic facials start at $130, with massage options ranging from $140-$250 depending on length and modality. The spa maintains modified hours during Christmas week—call to confirm specific dates.
Sojo Spa Club in Edgewater, NJ (accessible by ferry or bus) provides a Korean-style spa experience with multiple pools, saunas, and jimjilbang (heated floor rooms) for a $55-$75 admission. The facility operates 24 hours most days, making it perfect for odd-hour relaxation when other options are closed. Shuttle buses run from the Port Authority regularly.
QC NY Spa on Governors Island offers thermal baths and relaxation areas with Manhattan skyline views. The facility operates through fall and spring but closes during the coldest winter months—check their schedule for December availability. When open, admission runs $60-$110 with massage and treatment add-ons available.
Prep for Garbage and Recycling Schedule Changes
New York City sanitation operates on a modified schedule during Christmas week. Christmas Day sees no residential collection, with makeup days scheduled throughout the week. Check the NYC Sanitation Department website for your specific address’s adjusted pickup schedule.
Most recycling collection is suspended from December 24-26, resuming on December 27th. If you’re generating extra cardboard and packaging from holiday gifts, break down boxes and store them until collection resumes to avoid sidewalk pile-ups.
Many building management companies in larger apartment buildings suspend porter services on Christmas Day, meaning trash rooms may overflow. Take garbage out December 24th to avoid issues, and consider holding non-perishable waste an extra day if your building typically struggles with holiday volume.
Neighborhoods with large commercial districts may see delayed collection all week as businesses also modify schedules. Don’t be surprised if street corners look messier than usual—it typically resolves by December 30th.
Confirm Plans for December 31st Dinner
While Christmas Day restaurant reservations are difficult, New Year’s Eve rivals it for competition. Most upscale restaurants offer pre-fixe menus only, ranging from $125 to $400 per person, often with mandatory champagne toasts and party favors included. Seatings are typically limited to 6 PM-7:30 PM or 9:30 PM-11 PM, with the later seating commanding premium prices.
Many restaurants require credit cards to hold NYE reservations and charge cancellation fees of $50-$100 per person if you cancel within 48-72 hours. Read the fine print when booking.
Hotel restaurants like Jean-Georges at The Mark, The Pool at The Seagram Building, and Daniel offer New Year’s Eve experiences that include coat check, champagne service, and refined atmospheres away from Times Square chaos. These require reservations made weeks or months in advance.
For more casual options, many neighborhood bars and restaurants offer first-come seating with bar bites and cocktail specials rather than formal dinner service. This works well if you prefer flexibility and aren’t concerned about guaranteed seating.
Buy Batteries, Light Bulbs, and Other Forgotten Essentials
Hardware stores and bodegas keep irregular hours during Christmas week, with many closing early on Christmas Eve and remaining closed Christmas Day. Stock up on batteries for new toys and electronics, light bulbs, cleaning supplies, and other essentials by December 23rd.
Duane Reade and CVS locations maintain the most reliable hours, with many 24-hour locations staying open even on Christmas Day (though pharmacy counters close). These become your best option for last-minute needs during the holiday.
Batteries in particular disappear from shelves during Christmas week as parents frantically try to power new toys. Buy a variety pack by mid-December to avoid premium prices or sold-out situations.
Prepare for Limited Banking and Post Office Access
Most bank branches close on Christmas Day and operate modified hours throughout Christmas week. ATMs remain accessible, but if you need to make deposits, transfer funds between accounts, or resolve issues requiring teller service, plan ahead.
Post offices close on Christmas Day, and many reduce hours to 9 AM to 3 PM on December 24th and 26th. If you need to mail returns or send belated gifts, get to the post office early in the day. Lines can stretch 30-45 minutes during peak hours.
UPS and FedEx retail locations also modify hours during Christmas week. Ground shipping may face delays of 1-2 days during December 26-30 due to volume. For time-sensitive shipments, opt for expedited services.
Many businesses remain closed December 26th despite it not being a federal holiday. Call ahead before making a special trip to any retail or service location during the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Week in NYC
What restaurants are open on Christmas Day in New York City?
Many Chinese restaurants in Chinatown remain open on Christmas Day, offering both regular menus and special holiday options. Dim sum restaurants like Jing Fong, Golden Unicorn, and Nom Wah Tea Parlor operate on near-regular schedules. Major hotel restaurants including The Plaza, The St. Regis, and The Peninsula serve special Christmas Day menus with reservations required weeks in advance. Jewish delis like Russ & Daughters Cafe and Barney Greengrass typically open with regular or slightly reduced hours. Always call ahead to confirm, as hours can change year to year.
Where can I see the best Christmas lights in New York City during Christmas week?
Dyker Heights in Brooklyn features the city’s most elaborate residential displays along 11th-13th Avenues between 83rd and 86th Streets, typically lit through early January from 5-9 PM. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree remains lit through early January with the ice rink operating below. The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show runs through mid-January with model trains navigating miniature NYC landmarks. Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood offers impressive displays with smaller crowds. Fifth Avenue department store windows—Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and Lord & Taylor—maintain their animated displays through the holiday week.
What can I do with kids during Christmas week in NYC?
The American Museum of Natural History offers special holiday programming and remains open throughout Christmas week except Christmas Day. The Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights run through early January with after-dark illuminated displays and animal encounters. Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park, Bryant Park, or Rockefeller Center provides classic winter fun. The New Victory Theater programs family-friendly shows specifically during school break weeks. Chelsea Piers offers drop-in activities including rock climbing, gymnastics, and indoor soccer. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan and Brooklyn Children’s Museum host special craft activities and performances during the break. Many museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish hours during the week—check individual schedules.
Where can I get Christmas dinner to-go in New York City?
Whole Foods offers complete holiday dinners serving 6-10 people for $150-$300 with orders due by December 20-22. Eataly provides Italian-inspired Christmas feasts with pasta, proteins, and sides for $200-$350, requiring 3-4 days advance notice. Zabar’s on the Upper West Side offers traditional Jewish deli options and prepared entrées with 48-hour advance orders. Citarella markets throughout Manhattan prepare complete dinners with your choice of proteins and sides for $180-$280. Many neighborhood restaurants offer to-go options—call your favorites by December 18th to inquire about ordering deadlines and menu options. Pickup times typically run December 23-24 with specific windows assigned to avoid congestion.
What is there to do in NYC between December 26-30?
Post-Christmas week offers unique opportunities with lighter crowds. Museum visits become more enjoyable without peak season congestion—the Met, MoMA, and Natural History Museum all maintain regular hours. Winter markets at Bryant Park and Columbus Circle remain open through early January with sales and reduced crowds. Ice skating at outdoor rinks provides better availability and shorter waits. Shopping districts offer post-Christmas sales with discounts up to 70% off. Award-season movies premiere in limited release at art house theaters. The High Line and Central Park provide peaceful winter walks. Cozy bookstores like Strand and McNally Jackson offer warm spaces for reading and browsing. Many restaurants resume regular service with better reservation availability than the Christmas rush period.
Are there any special New Year’s Eve events in NYC besides Times Square?
Brooklyn’s Prospect Park hosts fireworks at midnight visible throughout the park, with Grand Army Plaza offering prime viewing. Central Park’s Tavern on the Green offers dinner packages from $500-$700 per person including champagne, entertainment, and multi-course meals. Many rooftop bars like 230 Fifth and The Ides host ticketed events ranging from $100-$300 covering open bar, DJ entertainment, and midnight toasts. Harbor cruises departing from Chelsea Piers and South Street Seaport provide views of the Statue of Liberty and city skyline with dinner and drinks for $200-$500 per person. Dance clubs in Meatpacking District and Williamsburg host DJ parties with cover charges of $75-$150. Brooklyn Bowl combines bowling, live music, and food for $150-$200 tickets. Most events require advance purchase and sell out by mid-December.
What grocery stores are open during Christmas week in New York City?
Most major chains modify hours during Christmas week. Whole Foods locations typically close at 6-8 PM on Christmas Eve and remain closed Christmas Day, reopening December 26th with regular hours. Trader Joe’s follows similar patterns, often closing at 5 PM Christmas Eve. Fairway Markets close on Christmas Day but maintain near-regular hours other days. Key Foods, Associated, and neighborhood bodegas vary by location—many stay open limited hours even on Christmas Day. Westside Market locations in Chelsea and Upper West Side typically maintain extended hours except Christmas Day. For specific store hours, call ahead by December 23rd to confirm. Delivery services like Instacart and Amazon Fresh operate with limited windows and possible delays December 24-25.
Where can I find a quiet place to relax during Christmas week in NYC?
The New York Public Library’s main branch on Fifth Avenue offers the stunning Rose Reading Room and free admission, closing only on Christmas Day. The Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park provides medieval art and architecture with Hudson River views in a typically uncrowded setting. Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn offers 478 acres of peaceful paths, historic monuments, and surprising wildlife, remaining open during daylight hours throughout Christmas week. The Morgan Library & Museum combines rare books, manuscripts, and art in an intimate setting with a cozy cafe. New York Botanical Garden’s Enid A. Haupt Conservatory provides tropical warmth and lush plants during cold winter days. Hotel lobbies like The Plaza, The Carlyle, and The Lowell allow non-guests to sit in comfortable seating with drinks from the bar. Bookstore cafes including Housing Works and McNally Jackson offer reading spaces with coffee and pastries. The Morgan Library & Museum reading room provides a quiet refuge with architectural beauty.
