
Top Things to Do in New York City During Christmas 2024
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Top 10 Things to Do in NYC for Christmas 2024
Welcome to the best holiday city in the world—New York! If you’re in the city that never sleeps this December, you’re in for a holiday experience like no other. From glittering lights to magical markets and iconic Christmas trees, here are the top 10 things to do in NYC this Christmas season. And don’t forget to swing by one of our Santa’s Dream World locations in Manhattan for ornaments, mugs, stockings, and more to make your holiday extra memorable.
1. Marvel at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
It’s the tree that’s worth the crowd! Nothing says "Christmas in NYC" quite like the towering Rockefeller tree. Snap some photos, gaze in awe, and soak in the holiday vibes. Just a short walk away, you can visit Santa’s Dream World at 40 West 34th or 140 West 34th to grab a classic NYC ornament and bring a piece of that holiday magic home. (Because what’s better than a Rockefeller tree on your tree?)
2. Skate Through Winter Wonderland at Bryant Park
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is the full holiday package: shops, food, and a free-to-enter ice-skating rink (you just rent skates!). Grab some hot cocoa, take a spin on the ice, and explore the holiday shops for unique gifts. Need some cute Christmas mugs for that hot cocoa at home? Our Union Square West location has all the festive mug designs your heart desires.
3. Shop the Union Square Holiday Market
Speaking of Union Square, the holiday market here is a feast for the senses! From artisanal crafts to cozy knitwear, it’s the perfect place for unique stocking stuffers. After you’ve browsed the market, head over to our 1 Union Square West store to pick up themed ornaments and stockings you won’t find anywhere else. NYC is all about exclusivity, after all!
4. See the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Ready for some sparkle? The light show at Saks Fifth Avenue is an iconic NYC Christmas event. The dazzling display of lights, set to holiday music, will get you into the spirit in seconds. And if you’re nearby, swing by our 34th Street locations for ornaments inspired by NYC’s classic landmarks, like our Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building ornaments—because we all need a little NYC shine on our trees!
5. Take a Stroll Down Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Windows
The window displays along Fifth Avenue are legendary, with stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s putting on stunning, themed displays every year. Turn the corner on 34th Street, and voilà—you’re close to Santa’s Dream World for some unique holiday décor to match your city-inspired style.
6. Explore the American Museum of Natural History’s Origami Tree
If you’re looking for a tree that’s truly one-of-a-kind, check out the origami tree at the American Museum of Natural History. It’s decorated with over 1,000 hand-folded paper ornaments inspired by the museum’s exhibits. Inspired to add some unique flair to your own tree? Drop by one of our stores for Elvis, NASA, and Coca-Cola ornaments that’ll make your tree just as conversation-worthy.
7. Enjoy Hot Chocolate at the City’s Top Spots
Whether you’re in it for the thick European-style chocolate at City Bakery or the marshmallow-topped goodness at Serendipity 3, NYC has some serious hot chocolate game. Want to bring the magic home? Check out our selection of Christmas mugs, perfect for that cozy cocoa moment by the fire (or the space heater).
8. Catch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Rockettes’ legendary Christmas Spectacular is a must for any visitor or local—it’s a New York tradition that’s over 85 years old! After the show, channel that excitement into a holiday shopping spree at Santa’s Dream World. Our 34th Street locations have all the show-stopping decorations you need to make your home feel just as festive.
9. Walk Through the Holiday Lights at Dyker Heights
Dyker Heights in Brooklyn has become famous for its over-the-top holiday lights, with entire houses and streets glowing in extravagant displays. If you’re inspired to take your holiday décor to the next level, stop by our stores to stock up on lights, treetoppers, and all things glittery.
10. Visit Santa’s Dream World for Unique NYC Christmas Ornaments
Finally, no NYC holiday season is complete without picking up some exclusive Christmas decorations! From NASA and Star Wars to NYC-themed ornaments, Santa’s Dream World has everything you need to bring New York holiday magic into your own home. Our four stores in Manhattan are packed with ornaments, stockings, nutcrackers, and more that’ll make your holiday decorating unforgettable.
Ready to Make This Christmas Unforgettable?
New York City during Christmas is an experience like no other, and we’re here to help you bring the magic home. Stop by any of our four locations in Manhattan—40 West 34th, 140 West 34th, 1 Union Square West, or 1 American Dream Way, Space A121—and check out our one-of-a-kind holiday decorations. Here’s to a season full of sparkle, joy, and the best Christmas in NYC yet!