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52 Fun Things to Do This December in New York

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Are you looking for some fun things to do this holiday season? Well there are a ton of unique things to do in December in New York, including the World Cup, seeing incredible Christmas lights, and hopping around the holiday bars in NYC. 


Being from New York, I'm always on the lookout for new cool places. No matter how many times I come home, there is always something new to do in the city, and the list is always changing! That's why we've been working hard to find the most interesting activities, from winter markets to the best Christmas Restaurants in New York City.


Enjoy and Happy Holidays!


Things to Do in December in New York: Holiday Bars in NYC

There's nothing like warming up from the cold with a nice spiked drink. Mix that with some great holiday decor, and you'll see why visiting the holiday bars in NYC is the top of our list for things to do in December in New York. Here are some of our favorites for the season.


1. Watermark

This year Bucketlister's presents a winter wonderland experience at Watermark. This restaurant and bar is located on pier 15 in Downtown Manhattan, and is one of the top things to do in December in New York. The restaurant fills will glass cabins to dine in, holiday decor, and fun Christmas themed activities. Tickets much be purchased in advance, and they cost $30, with a hot chocolate included. There are cute photo opportunities, s'mores, and visits by Santa.


It's important to note that tickets to enter are to simply experience Watermarks Winter Wonderland, and if you'd like a table you'll of course have to include that in your reservation. If you don't have a table, you can still order food at the bar where they serve hot chocolate.

Watermark, things to do in December in New York
Watermark, things to do in December in New York
Watermark, things to do in December in New York

Watermark has a full winter village in December.

2. Holly Jolly Bar

Another one of Buckelister's special events this holiday season is a pop up bar and dining experience called Holly Jolly Bar. Just like Watermark, reservations must be made in advance, and they sell out quick! Tickets are per seat, or per table, and include a holiday cocktail. General admission is $27, and Santa's Boozy brunch including an entree and holiday drink is $49/person.


This is one of those events that is specific for only things to do in December in New York, because it's only during this month. Additionally, Holly Jolly Bar is doing a New Years Eve Celebration for $100/person.

Holly Jolly Bar, things to do in December in New York
Holly Jolly Bar, things to do in December in New York

Holly Jolly is a pop up bar during the holidays.

3. Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde (in our opinion) is at the top of the list for things to do in December in New York. They truly outdo themselves with their stunning Christmas decor, and it's definitely one of the best holiday bars in NYC to check out. Entrance is free, but lines may get long to get in here, so try to have patience! The inside is definitely worth it.

Oscar Wilde, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in New York in December


Oscar Wilde is also beautifully decorated year round, so is always a great place to have on your list of Instagrammable Spots in NYC, but it is truly special during the holiday season.

Oscar Wilde, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in New York in December
Oscar Wilde, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in New York in December
Oscar Wilde, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in New York in December

Oscar Wilde has the best decor in NYC.

4. Cosmico

Want to experience some holiday magic without having to wait in a line? Well, right next to Oscar Wilde is a hidden gem which actually has the same owner as its more famous neighbor. Cosmico features a dining room in the back, serving latin cuisine, and has a bar in front, with a DJ at night. The reason though that we think this is one of the great things to do in December in New York is for two reasons. 1- The place is covered in strings of white flowers and lights, giving it a truly magical feel, and 2- they're going to have an epic New Year's beach party, where they're even going to cover the floors in sand!


Cosmico is definitely one of our new favorite holiday bars in NYC, and should definitely be added to your list of things to do in December in New York this year.

Cosmico, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York
Cosmico, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York

5. Miracle on 9th

Just like Holly Jolly Bar, this is another of the holiday bars in NYC that are actually a pop up experience. Reservations should be made in advance. They are open from 4 pm- 1 am from Monday- Thursday, 2 pm- 1 am on Fridays & Saturdays, and from 2 pm to midnight on Sundays. The cocktail bar specializes in holiday themed drinks, and is covered festively from top to bottom.


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6. Magic Hour Rooftop & Grill

If you're a pink lover, then this will definitely be at the top of your list for things to do in December in New York. Magic Hour always has fun decor, but this month they have a pink winter lodge theme. Their rooftop is located in the Moxy Hotel, but has plenty of seating indoors, making it super cozy. The top highlight though? They have a carousel that is dripping in decor, where you can have your Christmas cocktail, fondue, or whatever other holiday treat you prefer while spinning on this epic ride that is free of charge.

Magic Hour rooftop, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York
Magic Hour rooftop, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York
Magic Hour rooftop, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York
Magic Hour rooftop, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York
Magic Hour rooftop, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York

Magic Hour has a pink winter wonderland theme for the holiday season.


To Note: No professional cameras, or bags are allowed at the rooftop. You must check your items at the coast check. It is free of charge, but they accept tips.


7. 230 Fifth Rooftop 

Also located in Midtown, 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar is one of the most iconic holiday bars in NYC, and also throughout the entire year! The rooftop is open, but they provide comfy robes to wear so you can comfortably enjoy your cocktails with one of the best views in the city. 230 Fifth Rooftop also has igloos to sit inside, so you can be extra cozy while being up close to the Empire State Building, and getting some super cute photos.


While we definitely think it's one of the best things to do in December in New York, we also love this rooftop year round, as it is always a fun place to hang out with it's great panoramas.

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8. Paddy Macguire's Ale House

Paddy Macguire's is a lively Irish pub, that has sports playing, pool tables, and horse racing decor everywhere. Except for Christmas, the holiday decor comes into play, and Paddy Macguire's becomes one of the best holiday bars in NYC.


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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.

Lavaux, Christmas Restaurants in NYC
Lavaux, Christmas Restaurants in NYC

The Lavaux is a Swiss Restaurant where you can dine in a ski gondola!

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.

Rolfs, holiday bars in NYC, things to do in December in New York

Rolf's is decorated for the longest amount of time.

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.

Lafayette Bakery, Things to do in December in New York
Lafayette Bakery, Things to do in December in New York
Lafayette Bakery, Things to do in December in New York

Lafayette Bakery is an upscale French bakery, restaurant, and bar.

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.

Lafayette Bakery, Things to do in December in New York

One of the specials is the Supreme de Noel.

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.

Pete's Tavern, Christmas restaurants in NYC

Pete's Tavern is the oldest bar 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.

Pete's Tavern, Christmas restaurants in NYC
Pete's Tavern, Christmas restaurants in NYC
Pete's Tavern, Christmas restaurants in NYC

Pete's is beautifully decorated for Christmas.

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. 

Chelsea Market, things to do in December in New York
Chelsea Market, things to do in December in New York

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!

Chelsea Market, things to do in December in New York

The most iconic part of Chelsea Market is covered with lights.


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. Unlike the others though, it is only open during the week, Monday-Friday from 11:30 AM- 2 AM. Papillon specializes in cocktails, as well as bar bites, and a few entrees such as steak and salmon.


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.

Route 66 Smokehouse, Scratch Your Mapa, things to do in December in New York

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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, tripped in colorful lights, or covered in ornaments, you won't get sick of the different Christmas tree lights 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.

Rockefeller Center, Christmas Tree lights in NYC, things to do in December in New York

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.

Wall Street, Christmas Tree lights in NYC
Wall Street, Christmas Tree lights in NYC

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.

Seaport, Christmas tree lights in NYC

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.

Fox Christmas Tree, Christmas tree lights in NYC


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.

Zuccotti Park, Christmas Tree Lights in NYC
Zuccotti Park, Christmas Tree Lights 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 opp and Instagrammable spots in NYC.

Washington Square Park, things to do in December in New York
Washington Square Park, things to do in December in New York
Washington Square Park, things to do in December in New York

Washington Square Park has an arch just like Paris does.

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 1st was a magical display of floating Christmas trees. While this has already past unfortunately, 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 Pin
things to do in December in New York Pin

Things to Do in December in New York: Holiday Storefronts & Malls

One of the most unique things to do in December in New York for tourists is definitely to check out the impressive window displays. Big department stores like Macy's and Sak's Fifth Avenue spend months planning their intricate and animated storefronts, so they definitely are a must see. Here are some of our favorite store's to stop by in NYC.


27. Macy's Window Displays

If you're going to see one storefront in New York during the holidays, it definitely has to be Macy's. Located in the heart of Midtown, you can't miss how stunning Macy's looks during the holidays. Each window has a specific theme, and one is more impressive than the next! Don't forget to add this to your list of the best things to do in December in NYC. Also, if you happen to be in the area in late November, you'll also want to experience the incredible Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade that takes over the city on Thanksgiving Day.

Macy's window displays, things to do in December in New York
Macy's window displays, things to do in December in New York
Macy's window displays, things to do in December in New York

Macy's has the best window displays in NYC.

28. Cartier Fifth Avenue

So many of the big stores have impressive holiday decor in the city, but one of the ones that stands out to us is definitely Cartier on Fifth Avenue. The building is covered in red and white lights, and has a giant red ribbon surrounding it.

Cartier, things to do in December in New York

29. Lotte New York Palace

Lotte New York Palace is a luxury hotel located in Midtown Manhattan, and it is just stunning for the holidays. Tastefully lit and decorated, this is a gorgeous place to pop over to to eat a beautiful Christmas picture.


30. Hudson Yards

One of the most magical Christmas lights in the city are actually found in a mall, the shops at Hudson Yards. The entire shopping center is full of the most gorgeous light arrangements from the escalators to hanging decorations from the ceiling. Hudson yards is located right next to the vessel, and the shops are open from 

Hudson Yards, things to do in December in New York
Hudson Yards, things to do in December in New York
Hudson Yards, things to do in December in New York

Hudson Yards has some of the most beautiful Christmas decorations.

31. The Oculus

Another shopping center that does a great job at decorations for the holidays is the Oculus. Not only is the building one of the most Instagrammable spots in NYC, but it is also beautifully decorated for the holidays, and has plenty of shops to get your holiday gifts at. The Oculus is located in Downtown Manhattan near the World Trade Center, and can be reached by both subway and PATH connections from New Jersey, Brooklyn, and other areas in Manhattan.

The Oculus, things to do in December in New York

32. Storefronts on Bleeker Street

There are so many beautiful storefronts to check out while walking around Manhattan. One of our personal favorites is Bleeker Street, located in the neighborhood of Chelsea. There are quite a few shops that are full of Christmas decor, from holiday treats and flowers, to Christmas lights and wreaths. Take a look at some of our favorite ones in the photos below.

Bleeker Street storefronts, things to do in December in New York
Bleeker Street storefronts, things to do in December in New York
Bleeker Street storefronts, things to do in December in New York
Bleeker Street storefronts, things to do in December in New York

Bleeker Street has some of the best store fronts in the city.


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.

Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show, things to do in December in New York

The Saks Fifth Light Show happens right next to Rockefeller Center.

34. NYBG Glow

NYBG Glow 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 third annual event of NYBG, and the dates that are in December include the 2-3rd, 9–11th, 15–17th, 22–23rd, and the 26–30th. Tickets are $39 for NYBG Glow, $35 for the Holiday Train Show, and $54 for a combined ticket.


35. Amaze Light Festival

Located at Citi Field (where the Mets play) There is a nightly Festival of Lights. Some of the things that Amaze Light Festival includes are a fully immersive holiday light show, a storybook experience, stage show, live characters, and hundred of larger than life custom lighted pieces.

They also offer two rides, which are a toboggan hill, and a train, as well as a market area, food & drinks kiosks, a VIP section, and huge candy store on the property. Tickets are about $50, and you can enter from 4 pm to 10 pm.


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.


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38. Winter Lantern Festival (Queens, Staten Island, & Long Island)

Every year for the holidays there are giant lanterns that take over the parks of the Burroughs surrounding Manhattan. These aren't any old lanterns though- they are giant colorful lanterns that have shapes of different animals, cartoons, and other characters. Walk the winding paths to see the pop of color that the Winter Lantern Festival offers in each of these locations.


Want tickets? Simply click here for the official website.


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, things to do in December in New York
Dyker Heights, things to do in December in New York

Dyker Heights is a neighborhood that has the best Christmas lights in NYC.


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.

Christmas ornaments, Christmas tree lights in NYC

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.

Christmas Tree tunnel, Christmas Tree lights in NYC

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.

The Vessel, things to do in December in New York
The Vessel, things to do in December in New York
The Vessel, things to do in December in New York

The Vessel is one our favorite places to photograph in the city.

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: Christmas Markets in NYC

While most people head to Amazon for their Christmas shopping, we highly suggest you switch up your game. Instead of waiting for gifts that you won't know the quality of, or supporting bi factories, we really recommend checking out one of the incredible Christmas markets in NYC. They are full of fun and unique gifts, as well as support local businesses in New York. Here are a few of our favorite Christmas Markets in NYC to check out.


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45. Union Square

This is definitely one of our favorite Christmas markets in NYC, and where we got almost all of our holiday gifts. We spent a couple of hours here, and felt like we truly needed a few more. The Union Square Christmas Market is one of the best things to do in December in New York because it is complete with over 100 different stores of local crafts, and delicous food.. It is open from 11 am to 8 pm 7 days a week, except for Saturdays when it opens at 10, and Sundays when it closes at 7 pm. 

Union Square Market, things to do in December in New York
Union Square Market, things to do in December in New York
Union Square Market, things to do in December in New York

Union Square is full of handicrafts and fun gifts to get for your holiday shopping.

46. Bryant Park Winter Village

The most iconic of the Christmas markets in NYC is definitely Bryant Park. The square has an ice rink, Christmas tree, and glass cabins with local vendors. This is a great place to grab a hot drink, go ice skating, or to do some of your holiday shopping. The winter village is one of the best overall things to do in December in New York, and should be added to anyone's bucket list who is in NYC for the holiday season.


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47. The Shops at Columbus Circle 

Just like Bryant Park and Union Square, Urban Space has created an epic holiday market at Columbus Circle, with amazing local vendors to check out for your holiday shopping needs. The shops open daily at 11 am, and close on Sunday at 7 pm, and 8 pm the rest of the days of the week.


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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 

If you want to catch the last final games of the World Cup, then there really is 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 for December. The vibe here is as good as it gets, so it's definitely worth the $20 cover. Make sure to add Legend's to your list for the top things to do in December in New York this year.

Legend's best soccer bar in NYC
Legend's NYC, sports bars in NYC
Legend's NYC, sports bars in NYC
Legend's NYC, sports bars in NYC

Legend's is the bar bar for the World Cup.

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 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. Just like Legend's, 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.

Bill's Bar, best sports bars in NYC

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.

Bryant Park ice skating, things to do in December in New York


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 Lasker Rink are the main ones, but Lasker is temporarily closed until 2024. 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 $15 when for off peak times, $25 for peak times, and $35 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 was on December 10th this year. But don't worry if you missed it! There is another one happening in Hoboken this Saturday the 17th in Hoboken, NJ- just a short train ride away from the city!

Santacon 2022, things to do in December in New York

Santacon is a giant bar crawl where everyone dresses as Santa or in Christmas attire.


There are so many amazing things to do in December in New York, and we know you'll fall in love with the holiday season just like we do every year. There are always new and fun spots that pop up each year, making NYC a place you seriously can never get sick of. 


Do you want to see more fun things to do in New York? How about learn how to best get around, or some great foods to eat? Well, make sure you check out our Complete Guide to Visiting New York, as well as our other articles covering fun and unique spots in and around the city.


Need help planning your itinerary? Well we have all of our favorite spots saved on Google Maps for you! Just click here to download it. For just $10 you can easily navigate around the city! Want us to help you find cheap flights and accommodation? Well we also have our customized travel planning services, to help you explore more and spend less! Want to learn more? Simply click here to get started.


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This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. 💫Claudia Cloud 🌟

    Hi
    I would love to spend Christmas time in NYC but I would love to know more about Brooklin and other places around NYC holidays vibes
    Merry Christmas 🫶💫

    1. Fede & Danni

      Hi Claudia! We’d be happy to help you. Simply shoot us an email and we’ll send you some more info!

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