Holiday Family Festivities in New York
Ready or not, the holidays are quickly approaching. And for some of us, it is the most exciting time of the year to visit New York City. Two things I will never tire of are the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and the festive storefront window displays. The entire city is aglow with the magic of the season and those of us lucky enough to live close by should take full advantage of it.
I’ve listed just a sampling of some holiday events sure to spread yuletide cheer among the entire family.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular runs from November 13 through January 3. Wonderful for kids of all ages, a musical must-see featuring the talented Radio City Rockettes. The Christmas Spectacular was first presented at Radio City Music Hall over 80 years ago and continues to improve every year. This season be prepared to take a thrilling 3D ride through the skies of New York with Santa, all the way to the North Pole.
New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show The annual Holiday Train Show at the Botanical Garden runs from November 21 through January 18. This year the exhibit will feature an additional 3,000 square feet of space with dozens of new NY landmarks on display, all of which are recreated using bark, leaves, and other natural materials.
Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History will be on display at the Museum from November 24 through January 11. The museum’s famous Origami Holiday Tree is a staple of the holiday season.
The Nutcracker performed by the New York City Ballet runs from November 27 through January 3. One of the season’s most beloved productions, The Nutcracker comes complete with marching toy soldiers, snowflakes, and a one-ton Christmas tree that grows before your eyes.
Seaport Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place on Tuesday, December 1. More details to be published soon.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree The 83rd tree to adorn Rockefeller Center will be shining brightly from December 2 through January 6. Live performances and tree lighting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, December 2nd from 7–9 pm.
Elf! The Musical runs from December 9 through December 27 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. This enchanting movie is even more entertaining as a musical performance. Saw it last year at the Paper Mill and it was delightful!
Family Holiday Concert: A Charlie Brown Christmas on December 20 at 3PM Carnegie Hall celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Peanuts television special created by Charles M. Schulz with music performed by the Boston Pops.
29th Annual Miracle on Madison Avenue If you are in the city on Saturday, December 5, and plan to do some holiday shopping, retailers and businesses located on Madison Avenue between 57th and 86th streets will donate 20 percent of sales between 10am and 5pm to The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Ice Skating in New York City If it’s ice skating you are after, you will certainly find it in New York. Here are a list of 10 that includes admission pricing, skate rentals, and informative tips for each location.
In addition, these NY toy stores are worth a visit for kids of all ages, including adults!
FAO Schwarz
Toys R Us Times Square
Nintendo World
Lego Store NYC
American Girl Store New York
Kidding Around
And you do not want to miss the opportunity to meander through the festive NY holiday markets and kiosks – enjoy shopping for a unique variety of items that include jewelry, scarves & hats, decorative items, clothing, crafts, arts, toys, pet items, and local foods. FYI, be sure to bundle up if you are shopping at Union Square, Columbus Circle, or Bryant Park as you will be outdoors.
The Union Square Holiday Market is open from November 19 through December 24
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is open from December 1 through December 24
Shops at Bryant Park open through January 3
The Grand Central Holiday Fair is open from November 16 through December 24 (closed on Thanksgiving)
