Planning a Christmas vacation to New York City? Want to make your vacation truly magical? Then you’ve come to the right place! We’ve found the top things to do in New York City this holiday season, from Christmas lights to iconic sites to the best Christmas pop-up markets and more. So, stick around till the end because we’ve got the scoop on how you can save time and money with a pre-booked, low-priced Big Apple vacation rental. The countdown to Christmas has begun, and time is running out to book your vacation. So, without further ado, here is your complete guide to Christmas 2026 in New York City!
- Planning Your Christmas in New York City
- New York City Christmas Lights
- New York City Christmas Entertainment
- Holiday Markets and Fairs in New York City
- Christmas Dining and Drinks in New York City
- Where to Stay on Your New York City Christmas Vacation
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Rent a New York City Timeshare for Christmas With Timeshares Only
Planning Your Christmas in New York City
New York City offers endless sights and experiences. For this reason, planning your New York City Christmas itinerary can be an overwhelming task. But fear not! Because we’ve found four can’t-miss activities guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit. So, check out our picks for the top things to do in NYC this Christmas and start planning your trip today!
New York City Christmas Lights
Christmas lights keep the holidays merry and bright, and nowhere will you find more spectacular displays than New York City. Here are the best places to see lights in New York this Christmas.
Dyker Christmas Lights in Dyker Heights, New York
Residents of this trendy Brooklyn neighborhood take their Christmas lights seriously. So much so, in fact, that the Dyker Heights lights have become one of NYC’s premier Christmas attractions. There are several ways to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights. But whether you decide to see them by car, tour bus, or on foot in a guided walking tour, the Dyker Heights Christmas lights are sure to put a twinkle in your eye.
Big Bus: New York Holiday Lights Bus Tour
This two-hour double-decker bus tour takes you through Manhattan to see some of the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks as you’ve never seen them before. Stops include the Empire State Building, Times Square, and more!
Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrives on Saturday, November 7, 2026, and the Tree Lighting Ceremony follows on Wednesday, December 2, 2026. For many visitors, seeing the tree glow is the heart of Christmas in New York. Plan your trip for any time after the lighting to see the tree fully lit. In 2025, the tree stayed on display until mid-January. So, a stay that runs past New Year’s may still catch it.
New York City Christmas Entertainment
Certainly, New York City is famous for live entertainment, and Christmas entertainment is no exception. Here are some of the best live shows you can catch this Christmas in New York.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
This bucket-list New York City Christmas experience still features Santa Claus, the wooden soldiers, and, of course, the famous Rockettes. Although the show has expanded in recent years with new music, bolder costumes, and state-of-the-art technology, the Rockettes, whose synchronized kicks never fail to impress, are still the stars of the show.
Brooklyn Conservatory of Music’s Holiday Extravaganza
The Brooklyn Conservatory of Music’s Holiday Extravaganza brought Christmas in New York cheer to Park Slope on December 14, 2025. Guests enjoyed the Brooklyn Conservatory Chorale, BKCM Klezmer Hanukkah Ensemble, a Holiday Brass Band, Harambee Dance Company’s Kwanzaa-inspired dance, karaoke, musical bingo, cookies, hot drinks and a Yeti room. Tickets included a Santa photo, and 2024’s event sold out quickly. The 2026 date has not been announced yet. Check BKCM’s website for updates.
Holiday Markets and Fairs in New York City
New York City hosts several Christmas markets where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts, avoid the department store crowds, and support small businesses. Here are a few of the best NYC Christmas markets to visit in NYC.
Union Square Holiday Market
The Union Square Holiday Market features more than 150 vendors. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you stroll the booths, searching for the perfect crafts, artwork, and home accessories for everyone on your nice list.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Inspired by the open-air markets of Europe, this magical Christmas village hosts artisans from around the world. Shop for crafts and other unique gifts, sip hot chocolate, grab a bite at The Lodge at Bryant Park, hit the free ice skating rink, and more!
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
A favorite of local New Yorkers, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market boasts European flair and over 100 vendors. Wares include art, as well as handmade jewelry, home goods, and specialty foods.
Christmas Dining and Drinks in New York City
Christmas is a time to eat, drink, and be merry. Therefore, we’ve found the best places to do just that this Christmas in New York City.
Rolf’s German Restaurant
This cozy, old-world German spot offers a diverse menu of authentic Bavarian fare that goes down easy any time of year. However, it’s at Christmas time that this restaurant really shines – literally! Come for the 100,000+ Christmas lights; stay for the schnitzel!
Oscar Wilde
Named after the legendary Irish playwright Oscar Wilde, this posh restaurant and bar embodies the sophistication and glamour of the Victorian era. Oscar Wilde goes all out with Christmas decorations. It also offers Christmas-themed specials sure to put you in the Christmas spirit, from holiday drinks to an ugly sweater contest to afternoon tea parties.
Where to Stay on Your New York City Christmas Vacation
With a timeshare resale, you can have a low-priced home away from home for the holidays in New York City. So, check out our picks for the best NYC timeshare resorts below!
The Manhattan Club
Conveniently located on 56th and 7th, The Manhattan Club lies near NYC’s most popular attractions. Cross the street to famous Carnegie Hall, or take a short stroll to the famous theater district, which is located just around the corner. Other nearby attractions include museums, shops, and iconic landmarks. Choose from elegant suites and enjoy top-notch amenities such as kitchenettes, complimentary Wi-Fi, and killer views of the Manhattan skyline.
Club Wyndham Midtown 45
Club Wyndham Midtown 45 offers a peaceful haven near top NYC attractions such as Madison Avenue and Times Square. Choose from a hotel room with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV or a studio, one-, or two-bedroom suite complete with an in-unit kitchen as well as a pullout sofa for extra sleeping space. On-site amenities include an owner lounge, laundry facilities, a fitness center, and more.
The Central at Fifth by Hilton Club
Situated just steps from Radio City Music Hall, Saks Fifth Avenue, and the Rockefeller Center, The Central at 5th by Hilton Club promises a taste of authentic city life. Choose from a cozy studio, spacious one-bedroom suite, or sumptuous penthouse and enjoy luxury appointments like king beds, wall-mounted TVs, and walk-in showers. On-site amenities include a fitness center, as well as a business center and owner’s lounge.
West 57th Street by Hilton Club
This 28-story Manhattan hotel by Hilton Grand Vacations is within walking distance of some of NYC’s most iconic attractions, from Central Park to the Lincoln Center to the shops of Fifth Avenue. Onsite, you’ll find full concierge services, as well as a fitness center, spa services, and more. West 57th Street by Hilton Club offers studios, villas, and penthouse suites with upscale touches like custom furniture and granite accents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rent a New York City Timeshare for Christmas With Timeshares Only
Planning a last-minute Christmas trip to New York City? With a vacation rental from Timeshares Only, you can enjoy a pre-booked, low-priced holiday getaway without committing to long-term ownership. Christmas is almost here, so don’t delay. Browse our selection of New York City timeshare rentals before it’s too late! Have questions? Feel free to call us at 1-800-610-2734!
