MAIN Home Life Holidays Christmas New York City

It's the No. 1 destination of holiday revelers (The lights! The music! The Rockettes!) year after year according to many travel polls.

During the NYC holiday season it's Christmas non-stop — from downtown at South Street Seaport to midtown's razze-dazzle at Radio City Music Hall, moving further north to the spectacular holiday lights at the Bronx Zoo.

Of course, it all begins with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in November, along with the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting -- and it doesn't end until the big ball drop in Times Square on New Year's Eve!

Here's only a taste of why Christmas in New York makes the season bright for so many...

Christmas at Rockefeller Center - The famous lighting ceremony is scheduled every year the first Wednesday in December and televised nationwide, 7:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. and twinkling every day until 11 PM until the New Year.

Top of the Rock - Rockefeller Center's newest attraction featuring a 70-story high observatory, holiday event calendar, online ticket purchase, history and pictures, more.

Radio City Music Hall - Home of the Rockettes, and the annual Christmas Spectacular in NYC that continues to attract visitors from around the world year after year. Check out the schedule and buy tickets online by clicking on 'Box Office.'

Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo - More than a hundred illuminated animal and holiday sculptures, an array of local choral groups, the Holiday Express Train and the Polar Bear Express Experience, and more family fun throughout the holiday season, with map and directions, hours and rates, visit planner.

The Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center - A barrel of laughs that critics say beats the Barnum & Bailey extravaganza by a smile - with fun for kids of all ages and just in time for the holiday season. Includes show and ticket info, online shop.

The Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet - George Balanchine's annual holiday treat featuring that one-ton Christmas tree rising magically from the stage. Check out an online tour of what you'll see plus view ticket, group ticket, and schedule options for this season.

Metropolitan Museum of Art - Check out one of the world's top museums for their series of holiday concerts, family activities and don't miss the annual Christmas tree and Neapolitan Baroque crèche in the Medieval Sculpture all on view from late November – early January.

Christmas at South Street Seaport - The scene for 19th century caroling, Christmas tree lighting, seasonal entertainment and more - to get you into the holiday shopping mood.

also see -> Best New York City Tourist Attractions

Christmas in New York State