New York is one of the best cities in the world, could there be more of magical place to spend Christmas? If you are visiting the Big Apple in the lead up to Christmas there are hundreds of things to do and see; here we have picked our favourites…
There are some amazing Christmas decorations in New York. Saks Fifth Avenue literally cover the entire store front in lights every year and their annual Christmas Light Display is the stuff of dreams (watch it here), but there is an neighbourhood in Brooklyn that gives even Saks a run for their money…
Dyker Heights is the real life Deck the Halls as each resident shows us that minimalism is dead. This wonderful tradition has been running since the 1980s and it has become such a frenzy for the residents that they now hire professional decorating companies! These startling displays of Christmas cheer are just what you need – but perhaps take sunglasses! You can read a free tour guide here.
If you’re looking for a way to escape the New York chill but still want to appreciate some maximalist xmas decs you should grab a drink and bite to eat at Rolf’s.
This German restaurant has to be seen to be believed! Located in the Gramercy Park neighbourhood you can grab an egg nog or German beer and marvel at the spectacular displays that cover the entire restaurant. Best of all, the decorations are on display until May!
In our Christmas in London post we mentioned the brilliant LGBT theatre, Above the Stag. New York is also not short of some fabulously over-the-top LGBT fun. If you’re looking for a Christmas Eve to remember head down to the Christmas Eve Jewbilee (we kid you not!).
Held at the Slate NY bar and restaurant, in the heart of the Flatiron District, the larger-than-life night is thrown by Hebro, a gay social club and they sure know how to throw a party! This is their 11th Jewbilee and the event is expected to attract over 1000 gay Jewish men and DJ Nandi will be playing a great mix of American and Israeli pop to welcome in Christmas morning.
New York is a big city and if you’re only taking a short trip it could be difficult to see all the sights. If you’re looking for a way to cheat, the New York Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show offers more than 150 landmark replicas of New York Grand Central Terminal and The Statue of Liberty made of plant materials – a miniature metropolis!
This attraction is great if you are travelling to New York with children, but if you want to avoid the little ones (no judgement here!), the venue also hold late night viewings for under-21s. These night time viewings are made extra special with snow globe dancers, a fire pit, piano player and many other wonderful festive treats. So grab a cocktail and enjoy a wander around New York whilst cosying up to a warm fire – bliss!
We saved the most hyped event for last – The Bryant Park Winter Village, of course! NY’s answer to London’s Winter Wonderland.
This brilliant Christmas Market is great for last-minute unique gifts as there are over 150 stalls! There is also a huge ice rink for you to enjoy (it is free to skate if you bring your own skates)! You can visit Santa’s Corner, learn to juggle and raise money for charity by joining in on the RED Shopathon.
This is of course just a drop in the ocean of things to do in New York this Christmas – let us know of any hidden gems!
