Beyond lights and markets, New York City offers iconic winter experiences throughout the five boroughs. Ice skate at Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, or Wollman Rink in Central Park with stunning city views. From museum holiday exhibits and harbor cruises to seasonal shows and family-friendly festivals, NYC provides unforgettable holiday activities across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and beyond.
Holiday Classic Mansion Tours at Lyndhurst
Location: Tarrytown
Dates: Thursday – Tuesday, November 28th – December 28th, 2025, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (last entry)
Cost: $10-$29
The Holiday Classic Mansion Tours at Lyndhurst offer guided tours of the historic mansion, showcasing its spectacular holiday decorations and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore two floors of the mansion, featuring dozens of beautifully decorated Christmas trees and rarely seen items from the mansion's archives. This unique experience allows guests to step back in time while immersing themselves in the holiday spirit.
Venue: Lyndhurst Mansion
Address: 635 South Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591
Phone: 914-631-4481
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Step back in time with a guided tour of Lyndhurst Mansion, adorned in spectacular holiday fashion.
- Witness a unique, year-end display of historical treasures and festive decorations.
- Enjoy a special holiday experience at a renowned historic site.
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Festival of Trees
Location: Bernards
Dates: December 5 - December 30, 2025, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (closed December 24 & 25)
Cost: $
The Festival of Trees at the Environmental Education Center features an indoor exhibition of creatively decorated trees by local community participants. Attendees can enjoy holiday music while viewing the festive tree displays and have the opportunity to donate new, unwrapped toys for the Toys For Tots charity drive during their visit. This event combines holiday spirit with community involvement.
Venue: Environmental Education Center
Address: 190 Lord Stirling Road, Bernards, NJ 07920
Phone: 908-722-1200
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- An indoor exhibition showcasing creatively decorated trees by community participants.
- A chance to contribute to the Toys For Tots charity drive during your visit.
- View a festive indoor exhibit of beautifully decorated trees.
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Edison Township Menorah Lighting
Location: Edison
Dates: Wednesday, December 17, 2025 @ 7pm
Cost: FREE
The Edison Township Menorah Lighting at the JCC of Middlesex County invites community members to participate in a festive Hanukkah celebration. The event features a ceremonial lighting of the menorah, accompanied by live music entertainment from Courtney Colletti, creating a joyful atmosphere for all attendees.
Venue: JCC of Middlesex County
Address: 1775 Oak Tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: 732-494-3232
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Join local community members for a festive Hanukkah celebration.
- Enjoy musical entertainment by Courtney Colletti.
- Participate in a community menorah lighting ceremony.
Central Park Christmas Horse Carriage Ride
Location: New York
Dates: Monday to Friday rides start at 10:00 AM, Saturday and Sunday rides start at 9:00 AM. High season prices apply during the Holiday Season.
Cost: $$
Experience the beauty of Central Park from a horse-drawn carriage during the Central Park Christmas Horse Carriage Ride. Guests can customize their ride for special occasions and enjoy iconic landmarks such as Wollman Rink and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Options include a 'Park & City Ride' that combines a Central Park tour with views of festive holiday lights.
Highlights:
- Experience the magic of Central Park from a horse-drawn carriage, offering a unique and classic perspective.
- Customize your ride for special occasions like proposals, weddings, or group tours, with optional add-ons like flowers and chocolates.
- Enjoy a romantic horse and carriage ride through Central Park, experiencing its beauty as it was originally designed to be traveled.
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Nutley Chamber of Commerce's 63rd Annual Santa's Arrival
Location: Nutley
Dates: Friday, November 28, 2025 | Gates 1 PM | Santa 2 PM. Rain Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | Gates 10 AM | Santa 11 AM
Cost: FREE
The Nutley Chamber of Commerce's 63rd Annual Santa's Arrival at Nutley High School Park Oval features the highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus, complete with community entertainment and free giveaways from local sponsors. Attendees can write letters to Santa, enjoy festive music, and take photos with holiday characters, creating a lively community event.
Venue: Nutley High School Park Oval
Address: 300 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus, a cherished holiday tradition.
- Free giveaways and door prizes from generous local sponsors and vendors.
- Entertainment provided by Robert Frannicola of Ultimate Entertainment and performances by GIA Dance Studio.
Coney Island Polar Bear New Year's Day Plunge
Location: Brooklyn
Dates: Annual event on January 1st
Cost: $
Ring in the New Year with a bold tradition at the Coney Island Polar Bear New Year's Day Plunge, where thousands gather to brave the icy Atlantic waters in a spirited celebration of resilience and community. This historic event, organized by the oldest winter bathing club in the United States, offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends local lore, charity, and the thrill of plunging into the ocean at the start of January. Participants and spectators alike enjoy a lively atmosphere, unique rituals, and the chance to support vital Coney Island non-profits.
Highlights:
- Join the oldest winter bathing club in the US for their iconic New Year's Day public plunge.
- Support local Coney Island community non-profit organizations through participation and donations.
- Brave the icy Atlantic Ocean waters in a refreshing New Year's Day plunge.
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Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruises
Location: New York
Dates: November - January
Cost: $$
Classic Harbor Line offers festive holiday cruises aboard beautifully decorated 1920s-style yachts, featuring themed experiences like cocoa, jazz, and brunch. Guests can enjoy live holiday music, indulge in wine and cheese pairings, and take in breathtaking views of the New York City skyline and harbor.
Venue: Chelsea Piers
Address: 62 Chelsea Piers, West 22nd Street, New York, NY 10011
Phone: 212-627-1825
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a variety of themed holiday cruises, including cocoa, jazz, and brunch options.
- Sail aboard beautifully decorated 1920s-style yachts for a unique and cozy atmosphere.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and harbor, perfect for holiday photos.
Santa Ferry Ride
Location: Belford
Dates: Saturday, December TBD, 2025
Cost: $$
Embark on a magical holiday adventure with the Santa Ferry Ride, a cherished family tradition departing from the Belford Ferry Terminal. Children and adults alike will delight in a festive cruise past the Statue of Liberty, where Santa joins the journey to share stories, hand out special gifts, and create lasting memories. Enjoy lively entertainment, cheerful holiday music, and breathtaking views of New York Harbor, making this a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience on the water.
Venue: SeaStreak Belford Ferry Terminal
Address: 10 Harbor Way, Belford, NJ 07718
Phone: 732-615-2260
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A unique Christmas tradition featuring a ferry ride with Santa Claus.
- Includes a special holiday present for every child and infant ticket holder.
- Offers a scenic cruise around the Statue of Liberty.
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Christmas Con NJ
Location: Edison
Dates: December 12, 13 & 14, 2025
Cost: $$
Christmas Con NJ at the New Jersey Expo Center features celebrity guests from popular Christmas movies and TV shows, providing fans with opportunities for meet-and-greets and exclusive merchandise purchases. The event hosts a vibrant marketplace filled with holiday-themed shopping, perfect for finding unique gifts.
Highlights:
- Celebrity guest appearances from beloved Christmas film and television personalities.
- Opportunities to buy official merchandise and personalized photo ops.
- A vibrant marketplace for unique holiday-themed shopping.
Breakfast with Santa at The Mansion at Glen Cove
Location: Glen Cove
Dates: Specific dates not provided, but booking system shows availability into the future.
Cost: $$
Experience holiday magic at this enchanting breakfast celebration held within the elegant halls of a historic mansion. Families gather to enjoy a festive meal while meeting Santa Claus in person, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of sophisticated holiday décor. The event combines fine dining with seasonal cheer, offering an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere perfect for capturing special moments with loved ones during the Christmas season.
Venue: The Mansion at Glen Cove
Address: 200 Dosoris Lane, Glen Cove, NY 11542
Phone: 646-518-8771
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A delightful breakfast experience with Santa Claus.
- Photo opportunities with Santa in a historic mansion setting.
- Enjoy a festive breakfast spread prepared by the hotel's culinary team.
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Glenview Holiday Tour
Location: Yonkers
Dates: Wednesdays–Fridays, 1pm; Saturdays & Sundays, 1 & 3pm
Cost: $$
The Glenview Holiday Tour at the Hudson River Museum invites visitors to explore a festively decorated historic home from 1877. Guests can enjoy a 45-minute guided tour through six restored period rooms, where they will discover the Gilded Age holiday traditions of the Trevor family, including antique ornaments and beautifully adorned trees.
Venue: Hudson River Museum
Address: 511 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10701
Phone: (914) 963-4550
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Step into holiday magic at Glenview, a treasured 1877 historic home, festively decorated for the season.
- Experience the Gilded Age holiday traditions of the Trevor family.
- Take a 45-minute guided tour through six restored period rooms.
Long Beach Electric Light Parade
Location: Long Beach
Dates: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Long Beach Electric Light Parade takes place on West Beech Street, featuring a vibrant display of antique cars, fire trucks, and floats adorned with Christmas lights. This festive parade not only showcases dazzling light displays but also includes a competitive element with awards for the most festive participants, alongside post-parade activities for children.
Highlights:
- A beloved Long Beach tradition, the Electric Light Parade brings the community together with dazzling light displays.
- Awards are presented for the most festive participants, adding a competitive and exciting element to the event.
- Enjoy a festive holiday parade featuring antique cars, fire trucks, floats, and bicycles adorned with Christmas lights.
St. Nicholas Day at Vander Ende-Onderdonk House
Location: Ridgewood
Dates: December 7th
Cost: $
Celebrate St. Nicholas Day at the Vander Ende-Onderdonk House with traditional Dutch festivities, including mulled cider and holiday treats. Visitors can engage in festive singing, learn about the legend of St. Nicholas, and enjoy a festive tree lighting ceremony while exploring the historic house decorated for the occasion.
Venue: Vander Ende-Onderdonk House
Address: 1820 Flushing Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385
Phone: (718) 456 1776
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Celebrate St. Nicholas Day with traditional Dutch festivities.
- Enjoy mulled cider and holiday treats.
- Engage in festive singing and learn the legend of St. Nicholas.
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SantaCon NYC
Location: New York
Dates: December 13, 2025
Cost: $
SantaCon NYC is a city-wide Santa Claus convention and bar crawl, where participants dress in festive attire while spreading holiday cheer. This non-political event encourages participants to contribute to a charitable cause, with funds supporting local arts initiatives and community spirit throughout the city.
Highlights:
- Experience a non-political, nonsensical Santa Claus convention that takes over the city.
- Contribute to a charitable cause while enjoying a day of festive fun and community spirit.
- Participate in a city-wide Santa Claus convention, spreading joy and engaging in festive activities.
Times Square New Year's Eve 2025
Location: New York
Dates: December 31st
Cost: FREE
Join the iconic Times Square New Year's Eve celebration featuring the famous Ball Drop ceremony. Attendees will experience live entertainment leading up to the countdown, with the opportunity to add personal wishes to the confetti that will rain down at midnight, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Times Square.
Venue: Times Square
Address: 1560 Broadway, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10036
Phone: (212) 768-1560
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Join the world's most famous New Year's Eve celebration in the heart of New York City.
- Be part of a global tradition that unites millions in bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new.
- Experience the electrifying atmosphere as the clock strikes midnight.
Park Avenue Tree Lighting
Location: New York
Dates: Sunday, December 7, 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the spirit of the season at the Park Avenue Tree Lighting, a heartfelt annual event honoring the bravery and sacrifice of World War II veterans. Witness 104 majestic fir trees along Park Avenue illuminated in a stunning display of light and remembrance, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere that unites the community in peace and gratitude.
Highlights:
- Experience the annual Park Avenue Tree Lighting ceremony, a cherished tradition symbolizing peace and remembrance.
- Witness the symbolic illumination of 104 fir trees along Park Avenue, a tradition honoring sacrifices and promoting peace.
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Santa Photo Experience at The Westchester
Location: White Plains
Dates: November 7 - December 24, 2025
Cost: $$
Step into a winter wonderland at The Westchester’s Santa Photo Experience, where families can capture cherished holiday memories with a professional Santa session. This festive event welcomes furry friends for special pet photo opportunities and offers a sensory-friendly Caring Santa visit, ensuring every child feels comfortable and included. With beautifully decorated backdrops and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the season in style.
Venue: The Westchester
Address: 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY 10601
Phone: +1(914) 683-8600
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Professional Santa photo sessions available for families.
- Special photo opportunities for pets with Santa.
- Sensory-friendly 'Caring Santa' event for children with special needs.
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My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Holiday Tour
Location: New York
Dates: November 21 - December 30, daily (excluding Christmas Day)
Cost: $$
The My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Holiday Tour offers a fully guided 3-hour experience led by a licensed NYC tour guide, featuring exclusive early access to Papillon Christmas Restaurant. Participants will enjoy a tour of iconic Christmas sights in Midtown Manhattan, including a reserved table at the restaurant.
Venue: Papillon Christmas Restaurant
Address: 22 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A fully guided 3-hour tour led by a licensed NYC tour guide sharing festive stories and insider tips.
- Comfortable transportation on a climate-controlled coach bus with a maximum of 45 guests.
- Exclusive skip-the-line access and guaranteed reserved seating at Papillon Christmas Restaurant, a highly photographed holiday dining spot.
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A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
Location: New York
Dates: December 24, 2025
Cost: FREE
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a traditional Christmas Eve service held at Saint Thomas Church, featuring scripture readings, hymns, and performances by the renowned Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys. This deeply spiritual celebration captures the essence of the Nativity in a solemn yet festive atmosphere.
Venue: Saint Thomas Church
Address: 1 West 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212.757.7013
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A cherished Christmas Eve tradition featuring scripture, carols, and hymns.
- The renowned Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys performing sacred music.
- A deeply spiritual and festive celebration of the Nativity.
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East Brunswick Winter Wonderland
Location: East Brunswick
Dates: December 6-7, 2025
Cost: FREE
East Brunswick Winter Wonderland is a festive annual event that transforms the community into a vibrant holiday celebration filled with dazzling lights, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. This joyful gathering offers a unique blend of seasonal markets, interactive crafts, and special appearances that create a warm, inclusive atmosphere perfect for welcoming the holiday spirit.
Highlights:
- A community-wide celebration marking the holiday season.
- Enjoy a festive community gathering with holiday cheer.
- Experience the magic of a winter wonderland with seasonal decorations.
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Wollman Rink Ice Skating
Location: New York
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience the magic of winter at Wollman Rink in Central Park, where ice skating meets breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. This festive destination offers a charming blend of outdoor activity and holiday spirit, inviting visitors to glide across pristine ice surrounded by snow-dusted trees and twinkling lights. Whether skating under the glow of evening lights or enjoying seasonal music, Wollman Rink creates an unforgettable holiday atmosphere in the heart of New York City.
Venue: Central Park
Address: Central Park South, NY 10019
Phone: 212-439-6900
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Central Park skating
- Skyline views
- Iconic rink
Brookfield Place Winter Garden Ice Skating
Location: New York
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $
Experience one of Manhattan's premier outdoor ice skating venues this holiday season at Brookfield Place's 7,350 square-foot rink, where you can glide across pristine ice while taking in panoramic views of the Hudson River and the downtown skyline. Led by former U.S. Olympic skaters, this waterfront destination combines world-class skating instruction with festive holiday programming, including complimentary photo opportunities with Santa, live musical performances, and daily cookie-and-milk treats throughout December. Whether you're seeking a romantic winter outing, family adventure, or corporate celebration, this scenic plaza venue transforms the season into an unforgettable New York experience.
Venue: Brookfield Place
Address: 230 Vesey Street, NY 10281
Phone: 212-978-1698
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Waterfront rink
- Winter Garden
- Battery Park City
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New Year's Eve Times Square Ball Drop
Location: New York
Dates: December 31, 2025
Cost: FREE
Ring in the New Year with the dazzling Times Square Ball Drop, a legendary celebration where the iconic 'Constellation Ball'—adorned with thousands of Waterford crystals—descends amid a shower of confetti and live performances. This electrifying event unites millions in person and around the world, blending tradition with cutting-edge spectacle as the ball’s personalized crystals and interactive experiences make each countdown uniquely memorable.
Highlights:
- Ball drop at midnight
- World-famous event
- Free attendance
Central Park Holiday Carriage Rides
Location: New York
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$$
Experience the enchantment of New York City’s holiday season with a festive horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park and along the dazzling Fifth Avenue. Glide past iconic landmarks adorned with sparkling lights, including the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, luxury boutiques, and grand hotels, all while enjoying a cozy, romantic atmosphere. These exclusive rides offer a unique perspective on the city’s most magical decorations, with knowledgeable drivers sharing stories and ensuring memorable photo opportunities. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the holidays in style and tradition.
Venue: Central Park
Address: Central Park, NY 10019
Highlights:
- Horse carriage rides
- Park tour
- Romantic experience
Empire State Building Holiday Views
Location: New York
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate Christmas 2025 at the Empire State Building with dazzling holiday décor, exclusive exhibits honoring the Radio City Rockettes' centennial, and festive pop-ups throughout the iconic landmark. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of New York City’s winter skyline from the 86th and 102nd floor observatories, enhanced by seasonal lights and immersive holiday experiences that capture the magic of the season high above the city streets.
Venue: Empire State Building
Address: 20 W 34th Street, NY 10001
Phone: 212-736-3100
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- 86th floor views
- Iconic landmark
- Holiday lights from above
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Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in New York.