Before we know it, the Christmas season will be here! I’m so excited to head to New York City again for a long weekend this December. The holiday spirit in New York is infectious, and I can’t wait to immerse myself in it again! For me, it is truly magical that time of year, and I’ll never tire of all of the beautiful Christmas hot spots.

To ease the anticipation of my trip, I put together a collection of photos from some of my favorite Christmas spots in the Big Apple. Along with that, I’m sharing a few tidbits/tips/facts about Christmas time in New York City. From a Christmas concert at St. Patrick’s Cathedral to giant Christmas ornaments on the Avenue of Americas to Christmas tree stands on corners—Christmas in New York City is everything the ultimate Christmas obsessed dreams of! 

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Tidbits about Christmas Time in New York City

• Know that it will be crowded. Go to the hot spots early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
• There are Christmas trees EVERYWHERE! It seems like every neighborhood, every park, every store & restaurant has Christmas decorations. There is no lack of Christmas spirit in the city!
• Wait your turn at Rockefeller Plaza to get your perfect photo of the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree. Folks line up at the end of the plaza for the perfectly centered photo. You’ll get your chance too!
• Rolf’s German Restaurant is like the Griswold’s Christmas Vacation on steroids, the strongest steroids on the black market! If you LOVE Christmas, it is a must! Plus, the food is great.
• There are Christmas markets everywhere! These are great places to purchase souvenirs and Christmas gifts.
• SantaCon happens in New York City. So if you see 1000 Santas walking down the street just like in a 90s movie, they’re likely headed to the conference dedicated to Santa! #santaIknowhim
• When you’re engrossed in the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, TURN AROUND! Saks Fifth Avenue across the street from the most famous Christmas tree in America, puts on an incredible Christmas lights show.
• If you can, make it out to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. The neighborhood has been featured on The Great Christmas Lights Fight, and other shows, for their over-the-top holiday spirit.
• When you’re on your way to see the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, walk down the Avenue of the Americas to see the giant Christmas ornament & light strand displays.
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral puts on a Christmas concert where at one point during the event everyone has a candle, and they turn out the lights! It gives me chills just to think about!