To experience the most wonderful time of the year in New York City is like an energizing, colorful, decadent dream, as rich as the Golden Opulence Sundae from Serendipity 3. How would we spend a long pre-holiday weekend in the city? Get ready to hear about all of our NYC favorites.
Stunning Holiday Entertainment
When it comes to stunning holiday entertainment, New York City exceeds every expectation. Undoubtedly, one of the most exciting shows in NYC is The Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The Rockettes have performed at the iconic Radio City Music Hall since 1931, and their glamour, patriotism and precision should not be missed. We also love the classic holiday favorite, The Nutcracker. Playing throughout the city in countless varieties, the fairy tale ballet features dazzling candied costumes, elaborate visual effects, and enchanting character favorites. There is a Hip-Hop Nutcracker, a version set in Art Nouveau style, and George Balanchine's production performed at Lincoln Center. As we celebrate the reopening of Broadway, we also highly recommend the lively musical adaptation of the classic Dickens tale, A Christmas Carol. A holiday story so warm, it will melt even the cold heart of Mr. Scrooge.
Dazzling Lights & Decor
Rockefeller Center brings opulent ornaments, a charming ice rink and the city's most famous Christmas tree. The tree lighting ceremony dates back over 75 years, and typically includes a performance by the Rockettes and other celebrated musicians and performers. Another great place to see the city covered in lights is Fifth Ave. Walking from Central Park on Fifth Avenue towards Herald Square will allow you to see the most dazzling window displays in the city. Each storefront filled with magnificent lights, garland and whimsical wintery installations will be sure to bring holiday cheer. Make sure to see the brilliant Saks Fifth Avenue light show. And in a totally different borough of southwest Brooklyn, is Dyker Heights, the city's most Christmassy neighborhood. This neighborhood attracts over 100,000 visitors each year with its vibrant and extravagant display of lights and life size santas, snowmen and soldiers. Choose a guided tour, or stroll the neighborhood with friends sipping cocoa and taking in the splendor.
Iconic Central Park
There are fewer more beautiful places to glide along the ice under a twinkling sky than Wollman Rink in the heart of Central Park. This rink has been featured in so many films about NYC, you will feel truly cinematic while twirling about. After your skate, hop on one of NYC's majestic carriage horses for a ride to the iconic Tavern on the Green. A Central Park staple, Tavern on the Green has been capturing the spirit of New York City since 1934. Though the space has been reimagined, those of us who got to dine in the Crystal Room, amidst brass, Tiffany-stained glass and Baccarat chandeliers will never forget its glamour and storied architecture. New, warm, celebratory dining spaces, including the Bar room and the Central Park room, are now the perfect backdrop for your holiday meal.
Magical Christmas Markets
Winter Village at Bryant Park is packed with festive fun. Debuting in 2002, Winter Village is one of the most inspiring Christmas markets in NYC. A holiday market filled with artisanal boutiques, seasonal bites, beverages, local crafts, jewelry, clothes and baubles is sure to delight. With carol singing, ice skating and another glimmering Christmas tree, Bryant Park is a gorgeous winter wonderland in Midtown Manhattan. Other notable holiday markets include: the Grand Central Holiday Fair, the Union Square Park market and the Holiday Handmade Cavalcade.
Festive International Cuisine
We highly recommend that you head to Gramercy Park to experience Rolf's German Restaurant. This place is brimming with hearty Bavarian cuisine and over the top Christmas decs. Adorned with sparkling ornaments, cute antique dolls and over 100,000 lights, this famed establishment in Gramercy Park is about as magical and picture-perfect as it gets.
Round up your most special people, book your tickets, and unwrap the holiday magic of the Big Apple.