52 Fun Things to Do This December in New York

Things to Do in December in New York: Christmas Restaurants in New York City

Now that you've witnessed the best holiday bars in NYC, we have some more fun places to eat and drink. These spots are here year round, but go all out especially during the holidays! Here are some of the best Christmas restaurants in New York City to check out.

9. Loreley Restaurant & Biergarten

This German restaurant is located in the lower east side, and really turns it up for the holiday season. With its decorative inside, and heated outdoor patio, Loreley has so much to offer during the holiday season.

Their heated winter wonderland includes special cocktails like mulled wine, bourbon hot chocolate, and spiked egg nog. They open from 5 pm on weekdays (Monday- Thursday) and at noon on weekends (Friday- Sunday).

10. The Lavaux

This adorable Swiss restaurant is located in Chelsea, and is perfect to add to your list of things to do in December in New York for a few reasons. First of all, they have a ski gondola in the front of the restaurant that you can dine in!

There is only one, so you'll have to reserve in advance, or have patience to get placed here. The second reason we love this restaurant and bar is because of the comfort food offered, particularly their incredible 6 different fondue choices.

11. Rolf's German Restaurant

If you're looking for Christmas restaurants in New York, then this is definitely one of the most iconic there is. Rolf's is a small German restaurant located in Gramercy, an eastern village in Manhattan. This place is dripping in Christmas decor, and brings hundreds (if not a few thousand) people a day during the holiday season.

We went at 12 when they just opened, and the line went all the way down the street. We suggest getting there at 11 to line up if you want to avoid crowds, or to get there right before they're closing. The decorations are also actually up from early fall until May! So if you can squeeze it in in December, there's no rush.

PS- a friend has told us the food isn't as good anymore, so you may just want to stick to grabbing a drink here and eating elsewhere.

12. Panna II Garden

This is another beautiful lit tiny restaurant that goes all out. Panna II Garden is an Indian restaurant that is actually covered in Christmas lights year round! This restaurant is cash only, but is BYOB, making it a fun way to save a few dollars from the crazy expensive Christmas cocktails around the rest of the city.

13. Lafayette Grand Bakery

Now let's teleport to another area of the world- France! Lafayette Grand Bakery may just be one of the fanciest bakeries you'll ever witness. The truly grand dining room offer sit down brunches during the day, and the place is actually open til 9 pm, including a beautiful bar to have a Christmas cocktail at.

If you don't want to dine in, you can simply grab something quick in the front. We got one of their signature items, the Suprême de Noël, which is a flaky round croissant-like pastry stuffed with egg nog creme, and topped with wintergreen glaze, and a yule-log merengue. 

We also love Lafayette Grand Bakery for special things to do in December in New York because it is so cozy, and the staff even dress in French attire, giving it a truly authentic feel.

14. Pete's Tavern

Are you looking for one of the most authentic Christmas Restaurants in New York? Well, Pete's Tavern is the oldest bar in the city, and is a must for things to do in December in New York.

Not only is it iconic, but they covered the tavern in red Christmas lights, and have a wall of Santas. Whether you're looking to have a sit down meal, have a drink at the bar, or catch one of the sports games on, Pete's Tavern is definitely one that you'll want to keep on your list for this month.

15. Chelsea Market

If you're looking for a variety of eateries, bar, and shops in one place, then Chelsea Market is definitely a must.

The reason we added it to our list of the best things to do in December in New York is because it is extra magical during the holidays. At the end of the market is a walkway with lights surrounding the iconic clock inside Chelsea Market. 

So grab a bite and just browse this market to get in the Christmas Spirit, and maybe even get some holiday shopping done at the same time!

16. Lillie's Victorian Bar

Lillie's actually reminded us a ton of Oscar Wilde, and it's no wonder because it actually has the same owner! It has a stunning Victorian interior, but decks the halls with impressive Christmas decor during the holidays.

This bar has two locations, one in Times Square, and one in Union Square. The hours for Lillie's are  4 PM- 1AM from Monday- Wednesday, 4 PM- 2 AM Thursday & Fridays, 11:30 am- 2 AM on Saturdays, and 11:30 AM- 1 AM on Sundays.

17. Papillon Bistro & Bar

Another sister restaurant of both Oscar Wilde and Lillie's is Papillon Bistro & Bar. Papillon specializes in cocktails, as well as bar bites, and a few entrees such as steak and salmon. We also love their all-day happy hour on Saturdays!

18. Route 66 Smokehouse

We absolutely love Route 66 Smokehouse. Located in the financial district, this bar and restaurant has igloos outside equipped with games, tvs, and heaters to keep you cozy.

The food and drinks are super tasty, and they even have a game room upstairs inside. Whether you want to hang out and watch a game, or rent an igloo, this is one of the most fun things to do in December in New York when it comes to dining.

Things to Do in December in New York: Christmas Tree Lights in NYC

One of the best things to do in New York in December is to admire the various Christmas trees all lit up.

There a ton of beautiful ones. Whether they are traditionally lit in white, dripped in colorful lights, or covered in ornaments, you won't get sick of the different Christmas trees in NYC. Here is a list of our favorite ones for you to check out.

19. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

This is hands down the most iconic of things to do in December in New York. The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is the biggest in the city, and visited by approximately 750,000 people during the holiday season each year.

The tree is lit 7 days a week from 6 am to midnight, and is lit 24 hours on Christmas Day. It is completely free to visit, and definitely at the top of the list for Christmas tree lights in NYC.

20. New York Stock Market Exchange Christmas Tree

If you're looking for a tree almost as impressive as Rockefeller Center, but with far less crowds, then make sure you don't miss out on this Christmas tree. Covered in rainbow lights.

it is situated in Wall Street right in front of the New York Stock Exchange, and is quite a sight to see. Check below for the 2020 tree vs the 2022 tree.

21. Sea Port Christmas Tree

Looking for another beautiful Christmas Tree in Downtown Manhattan? The Seaport isn't high on tourists' bucket lists, but it is definitely underrated. The giant traditionally lit Christmas Tree is in the heart of the Seaport, and can easily be enjoyed without crowds.

22. Fox News Christmas Tree

Just around the corner from Rockefeller Center, the Fox News Christmas Tree is 50 feet tall, and covered in red, white, and blue lights. Actually, unfortunately the original tree was lit on fire, and was just replaced a week ago.

23. Zuccotti Park

Located right outside the Oculus in Downtown Manhattan, Zuccotti Park is wonderfully lit, and one of the most Instagrammable Spots in NYC during the holidays.

Not only is there a big Christmas tree, but the trees surrounding it are also covered in lights, making it a super magical square to add to your list of things to do in December in NYC.

24. Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is iconic with its arch, similar to the Arc de Triumph in Paris. There is also a Christmas Tree there right in front of the arch, making it a must for a photo op and Instagrammable spots in NYC.

25. Central Park Christmas Tree

One of the best Christmas Tree Lightings is located in the heart of Central Park. Situated in the middle of the lake on December 4th there will be a magical display of floating Christmas trees.

Even if you can't make it to the tree lighting itself, you can still see the beautifully lit Christmas tree at Tavern on the Green, as well as see the other great Christmas Lights throughout Central Park, or go iceskating in the middle of the park.

Whatever you decide to do here, going to Central Park is definitely one of the most magical things to do in December in New York.

26. 731 Lexington Ave

If you're looking for more beautiful Christmas tree lights in NYC, then don't miss out on 731 Lexington Ave. Not only is there one large tree, but there are also several smaller ones surrounding it, as well as colorful lights across the building behind it.

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Things to Do in December in New York: Light Shows in New York City

Not only do the storefronts and hotels take advantage of putting amazing Christmas Tree lights up, but there are actual light shows in New York City that are dedicated to glowing up special areas of the cities such as neighborhoods or parks. Here are our favorite light shows in New York City.

33. Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show

The most iconic of the light shows is the one taken place right opposite Rockefeller Center, at Saks Fifth Avenue. It's free of charge to see, and goes every 10 minutes from 5 pm- 11pm.

34. Holiday Train Nights (Formerly Known as  NYBG Glow)

Holiday Train Nights is a mile and a half outdoor color and light experience located at the New York Botanical Gardens in the Bronx. There is also a separate even held there that is popular with families, which is the Holiday Train Show.

This year is the fifth annual event of NYBG and tickets are $46. The dates that are in December include the 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th.

35. Lumonisity Festival

This dazzling light show brings immersive installations and festive music to different parts of New York each winter. Visitors can stroll through tunnels of lights, illuminated trees, and glowing sculptures while sipping hot cocoa. It is one of the most photogenic events of the season.

Tickets start at $36.50, and the event goes from November to January.

36. Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Gardens

Every year during the holiday season the botanical gardens of Brooklyn turn into a magical feast for your eyes. The illuminated path brings you to see lights and colors in several different exhibitions.

Tickets can be purchased online, and are $40 for adults, and $20 for children. Time slots start at 4:30 pm until 9 pm, and the entrance is located at 990 Washington Avenue.

37. Luminaries at Brookfield Place's Winter Garden

We love this for things to do in December in New York, because it is one of the light shows that is actually free!

Brookfield Place offers light shows on the hour every hour from 8 am to 10 pm, and actually donates money for every interaction they get- just another reason to put this spot high on your list of things to do in December in New York.

38. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights

The Bronx Zoo comes alive at night with animal-shaped lanterns, light tunnels, and holiday displays spread throughout the park. It is family-friendly, full of photo opportunities, and pairs perfectly with hot cocoa under the glowing trees.

The Holiday Lights go from November 21st, 2025- January 4th, 2026, and tickets for adults are $41.95, and $26.95 for children.

39. Dyker Heights

When it comes to beautiful Christmas tree lights in NYC, you'll definitely have to head over to Brooklyn. The houses of Dyker Heights compete each year to outdo one another with their extravagant lights and holiday decor. Simply drive up and down the streets and admire how amazing these houses look.

Head from 83rd to 86th street between 11th avenue and 13th avenue, and you can admire all of the beautiful Christmas displays. (Make sure to get there before 9 pm, as many of them turn their lights off later in the night).

Dyker Heights is most easily accessed by car, so if you don't have one, we'd recommend joining one of the tours below:

Things to Do in December in New York: Fun Instagrammable Spots in NYC

Now that you know the best Christmas tree lights in NYC, light shows, and Christmas Restaurants in New York, we have a few more fun spots to check out, especially for those looking for the most Instagrammable spots in NYC during the holidays. 

40. Ornament Display

Sixth Ave is home to some of the most iconic decorations for the holidays. Every Year there are giant red Christmas ornaments that sit upon a lit fountain. If you'd like to check them out, you can just put in the address 1251 Sixth Avenue.

41. Candy Cane Display

Just a block or so over from the ornament display is a fun display of giant candy canes. They are super cute, and make for a super Instagrammable spot in NYC for the holidays.

42. Tree Tunnel

Now we already mentioned some of the best Christmas tree lights in NYC, we're here to share with you a super special one that is also on 6th Avenue.

This giant Christmas tree has a cut out in the bottom, so that you can walk through the take a picture inside of it! Want to know exactly where it is? We have it saved on our Google Maps download.

43. The Vessel

Visiting the Vessel is one of our favorite things to do in December in New York, because it is simply so beautiful with all of the lights around it. The Vessel itself is a honeycomb shaped building in Hudson Yards, and makes for some incredibly Instagrammable shots both inside and out of it.

44. 73rd Street

If you're looking for some of the best Christmas lights in New York, then don't miss out on 73rd Street.

The entire street has rows of trees that are covered in white Christmas lights. Situated north east of most of the other Christmas Tree Lights in the city, this is a bit of a hidden gem to check out if you'd like to escape the crowds of Midtown.

Things to Do in December in New York: The Best Sports Bars in NYC

December is a great month for sports, especially his year! The World Cup is in full force, with just a few games left, so you'll definitely want to check out one of the best sports bars in NYC for soccer, as well as some for the Sunday Funday American football games.

Here are the best sports bars in NYC (and nearby) to check out this December.

48. Legend's 

In 2022 we had the pleasure of the World Cup being in winter, and there really was no better place to be than Legend's. Located in the heart of Midtown, this is the biggest soccer bar in the city, and certainly one of the best sports bars in NYC.

The vibe here is as good as it gets, so it's definitely worth stopping over to catch a soccer game. Make sure to add Legend's to your list for the top things to do in December in New York this year.

49. Wicked Wolf

Now that you know the best bar for the soccer, here's one for American football. While it's not located in Manhattan, it's just a quick ride away on the PATH into Hoboken.

Wicked Wolf emulates the true vibe of Sunday Funday and the wild atmosphere of what you'd find at the Jersey Shore in the summer. Don't worry-it's not trashy, but it sure is the most fun you'll ever have watching football.

With a DJ playing between plays and napkins being thrown in the air, you'll feel the perfect mix of epic clubs and the best sports bars in NYC. There is a $20 cover charge to enter (at least that's what it was the last time we went). We suggest getting there around noon, so you can avoid the long lines for the 1:00 games.

50. Pennsylvania 6 NYC

As a local, I have to say that I am a giants fan when it comes to football. However, if you're a bills. fan, or want to experience a super fun time watching the Bill's play, then this is definitely one of the best sports bars in NYC to add to your list of things to do in December in New York. 

Pennsylvania 6 NYC is the official Buffalo Bills bar, and it gets absolutely packed! Reserving a table will cost you quite a bit, but the bar is free to hang out at.

Blue Light (a Canadian beer loved but Buffalonians) is on specials for game day for just $5, meaning you won't have to spend a fortune to have a good time. They also do classic food from Buffalo like Buffalo wings, and Beef on weck, and are located right in Midtown Manhattan.

Things to Do in December in New York: Special Activities

Now that we've shared you all of our favorite things to do in December in New York, we have just two more bonus items. Here they are!

51. Ice Skating in NYC

Iceskating is one of the best winter activities, and definitely one of the top things to do in December in New York. This city has quite a few areas to choose from when it comes to ice skating, and here are the top ones to check out.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

The most famous one is located at Rockefeller Center. The Rink requires reservations in advance, and prices depend on the time you go. Tickets range from $21-65/ hour, and The Rink is open daily from 7 am to 11 pm.

Ice Skating at Bryant Park

Bryant Park is the only free ice skating in NYC* (if you have your own skates). Just like Rockefeller Center, rentals are priced depending of the time of day, and range from $18-$48. Sessions are 55 minutes, and the ice rink is open from 8 am to 11 pm daily all winter long.

Ice Skating at Central Park

There are two main ice-skating rinks in Central Park, each with both skate & locker rentals available, Wollman Rink and Gottesman Rink.

There is a third option which also available at Conservatory Water, but this is only when proper ice conditions permit, and in that case is free of charge if you have skates.

Wollman Rink is located in the south east corner of Central Park, and is open daily starting at 10 am. The rink closes at 9 pm on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, at 2:30 pm on Mondays & Tuesdays, and at 10 pm on Fridays & Saturdays. Rentals cost $16 when for off peak times, $28 for peak times, and $40 for holidays.

Ice Skating at Seaport

Located just outside of Pier 15 and Pier 17 is another ice skating rink in the Downtown area of Manhattan.

While it is normally on the rooftop of Pier 17, this year it has been relocated and is just along the side walk in front of the piers. We love this one because it has an awesome light show for skaters to enjoy while doing their laps around the ice.

52. Santacon

Each year there is a huge event in December where thousands come together and dress like Santa, or in other Christmas attire. It is a huge party and then bar crawl, starting early in the morning on Saturday, and going all day. It is actually a charity even where around 40 bars in Manhattan sign up, and all of the profits are donated.

The one in Manhattan is on December 13th this year. But don't worry if you can't make it! There is another one happening in Hoboken Saturday the 20th in Hoboken, NJ- just a short train ride away from the city!