New York City Christmas Holidays 2017 Guide

New York City is a magical place to be during the Christmas holiday season. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with festive lights, decorations, and events that bring joy to people of all ages. From iconic ice skating rinks to spectacular holiday markets, there's no shortage of fun and festive activities to enjoy in the Big Apple. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your Christmas holidays in New York City in 2017.

The city's iconic Christmas tree, a towering 75-foot Norway spruce, takes center stage at Rockefeller Center. The tree is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and topped with a stunning Swarovski crystal star. Ice skating at Rockefeller Center is a classic holiday experience, and the rink is open from late October to early April. Even if you're not a skilled skater, the rink's picturesque backdrop and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit during the holiday season.

Holiday Markets and Shopping

New York City is a shopper's paradise, and the holiday season is the perfect time to explore the city's many festive markets and shopping destinations. The Union Square Holiday Market features over 150 vendors selling handmade goods, artwork, and gourmet foods. The Brooklyn Flea's Winter Flea is another popular destination, offering a curated selection of local vendors and artisans selling unique gifts and souvenirs.

The holiday season is also a great time to explore some of New York City's iconic department stores, such as Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman. These stores go all out with their holiday window displays, featuring elaborate and festive designs that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Ice Skating and Winter Activities

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and New York City has plenty of options to get you gliding across the ice. In addition to Rockefeller Center, other popular ice skating rinks include:

• Bryant Park Winter Village: This rink is free to skate and offers a festive atmosphere, complete with holiday shops and food vendors.
• Wollman Rink in Central Park: This rink is a New York City institution and offers stunning views of the park's winter landscape.
• Brookfield Place: This indoor rink is located in the heart of Lower Manhattan and offers a unique and memorable skating experience.

If ice skating isn't your thing, there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy in New York City. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, visit the New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show, or explore the city's many festive holiday markets.

Holiday Lights and Displays

New York City is famous for its festive holiday lights and displays, and the 2017 season is no exception. Some of the city's most iconic displays include:

• The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show: This spectacular display features thousands of lights and a festive soundtrack.
• The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: As mentioned earlier, this iconic tree is a must-see during the holiday season.
• The Dyker Heights Lights: This Brooklyn neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top holiday displays, featuring animatronic animals, festive lights, and more.

Holiday Events and Performances

New York City is a hub for live performances, and the holiday season is no exception. Some of the city's most popular holiday events and performances include:

• The Radio City Christmas Spectacular: This annual show features the world-famous Rockettes and a festive lineup of music and dance.
• The New York City Ballet's The Nutcracker: This classic holiday ballet is a must-see for dance enthusiasts and families alike.
• Elf: The Musical: This hilarious and heartwarming musical tells the story of a human raised by elves who goes to New York City to find his birth father.

Holiday Cruises and Tours

If you're looking for a unique and memorable holiday experience, consider taking a holiday cruise or tour of New York City. Some popular options include:

• The Holiday Lights and Movie Sites Tour: This guided tour takes you to some of the city's most iconic holiday lights and movie filming locations.
• The New York Harbor Holiday Cruise: This cruise offers stunning views of the city's skyline and holiday lights, complete with hot cocoa and festive music.
• The Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Tour: This guided tour takes you through the famous Dyker Heights neighborhood, featuring some of the city's most over-the-top holiday displays.

Tips and Tricks

• Plan ahead: Many of New York City's holiday events and attractions can get crowded, so be sure to plan ahead and book tickets or reservations in advance.
• Dress warmly: New York City can get chilly in the winter, so be sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes.
• Take a break: The holiday season can be overwhelming, so be sure to take a break and grab a cup of hot cocoa or coffee to recharge.