As much as I hate the Winter and I’m always down for a getaway, there’s nothing like spending the holidays in my hometown NYC. If you plan on visiting the Big Apple this month, here are just a few things that will help you get you in the holiday spirit.
Watch a Show
See some of the many shows on Broadway or seasonal favorites like The Nutcracker, Elf the Musical, or the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Although it’s not holiday-themed, I try my best to go see Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at City Center. It’s a great show showcasing new choreography and Ailey Classics. This year, they’ll be honoring my FAVORITE DANCER EVER Judith Jamison, and including the production Cry.
Ice Skate
In addition to the free ice skating rinks across the boroughs, you can go to Bryant Park, Rockefeller Plaza or Wollman Rink in Central Park. For some of these rinks, admission is free, but you need to rent skates and lockers for storage. As a child and an adult, I’ve always had a great time at Wollman Rink.
Attend Holiday Events
The biggest and best ceremonies are in NYC. See the tree at Rockefeller Plaza or go to Times Square to watch the Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve. Another favorite is the Menorah Lighting at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn and on 5th Avenue in Manhattan. You can get a list of free and low-cost events on the NYC Parks website.
Shop
Support small businesses and shop the Holiday Markets. The most popular is in Bryant Park’s Winter Village. There are also shops in Union Square, Columbus Circle, The Garment District, and Bowling Green. You can get stocking stuffers and tree ornaments for yourself or gifts for friends and family. Head over to the largest department store in the world Macy’s Herald Square. For easier access, make a reservation online to visit Santaland and get a picture with Santa.
And Window Shop
Since interning (and then working) on 5th Avenue, I always loved walking down the strip to see the window displays. My personal favorites in the area are Louis Vuitton, Saks 5th Avenue, Fendi, Cartier and Bloomingdale’s (The flagship on 59th St and Lexington Ave).
When I was young we would go to New York City every year right before the holidays! I loved it. It’s really beautiful this time of year and there’s so much to do! Plus, it’s an amazing place to do some holiday shopping.
LiveLifeWell,
Allison
I love my hometown during the holidays. I love to see all the decorations and windows. I usually go ice skating in Queens.
I agree with all the above! I grew up in Northern NJ and spent the Holidays in NYC. I still miss it!
Love this post! I have never been to NYC, but want to go there so bad….I am fashion obsessed and that is the place to find it all! Love your pics!
Valerie
I love our city during the winter! It lights up and is just so magical 😀 One of my favorite things to do is visit the holiday markets! I have not gone ice skating since I was a kid, but I think I will attempt it this year 😀
I’ve always wanted to see the ball drop but now your post give me a whole new list
Of things to add to my Must See List! Thanks for sharing!
I know New York is nice during the holidays I would visit for New Years though and be in Times Square…so much action and stuff
Wow, I am so glad I read your blog ….Interesting student ticket to Alvin Ailey for $15 dollars. May have to take a trip to New York for the Holidays. It’s a festive time of the year especially in the Big Apple.
I love NYC at Christmastime! We did a family trip in 2008 and will be going again this weekend. We only live about 5 hours away so I’m not sure why we don’t make this a tradition every year. It’s always so much fun! We always see a show and go shopping in Macy’s. Those two are a given. I think this year, we’ll be a little more touristy.
Yes, Yes and YES – I NEED to see Alvin Ailey. Do you know if they’re doing their $15 student rush tickets this time around?
I never knew they had student ticket until now! lol According to their site: Students can get $15 Ailey tickets from 12 noon until one hour before curtain on the day of the performance.
I bet being in NYC for the holidays is beautiful! I’d love to see everything lit up and festive.