Free & Paid Things To Do in NYC This December 2025
Cold mornings, bright lights, and a hint of holiday buzz in the air… yes, it’s December in the city again. And if you’re trying to keep things budget-friendly or go all out this month, this guide to free & paid things to do in NYC this December 2025 might just be your go-to. Plus, because sometimes the best mini-escape is just a short train ride away, I went ahead and included a few spots outside the city that are totally worth it.
Always check the official event pages for the latest info—details can change. Free entry might still need an RSVP or have separate costs for food, drinks, or activities.
Things To Do in NYC December 2025 (Rockettes, Tree Lighting)
Free Fun Events
Bryant Park Tree Lighting
Bryant Park’s tree lighting is one of those moments that makes the whole city stop and collectively go “okay, it’s officially holiday season.” The ceremony happens at 5:30 PM, lighting up Midtown with ice-skating performances, surprise guests, and a lot of cheer.
- When: December 2, 2025
- Where: 41st Street and 6th Ave, New York
- Tickets: Free admissionÂ
- Website: https://bryantpark.org
- Best for: Anyone who loves a classic NYC holiday kickoff.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
You can’t start December in New York without seeing the tree light up. The crowd goes quiet, the lights flicker on, and for a few seconds, it feels like the whole city is smiling at once.
- When: December 3, 2025
- Where: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.rockefellercenter.com
- Best for: First-time visitors and Christmas lovers.
FAD Market – Holiday
Skip the mall and check out this pop-up market filled with independent artists, designers, and local brands. You’ll find creative gifts that feel personal, and yes, dogs are welcome.
- Boerum Hill: December 6 & 7, 13 & 14, and 20 & 21 at 51 Bergen Street, Brooklyn
- Cobble Hill: December 6 & 7, 13 & 14, and 20 & 21 at 190 Court Street, Brooklyn
- Dumbo: December 1-21 at Empire Stores (55 Water Street, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://fadmarket.co
- Best for: Shoppers and local art lovers.
Grand Bazaar NYC
Every Sunday, this giant Upper West Side market turns into a treasure hunt. It’s where you can browse handmade fashion, vintage finds, jewelry, international treats, and gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
- Grand Holiday Bazaar: December 7, 14 & 21, 2025 (100 West 77th St., New York)
- Grand Holiday Bazaar at Grand Central: December 16-18, 2025
- End of Year Sales Bazaar: December 28, 2025 (100 West 77th St., New York)
- Tickets: Free admissionÂ
- Website: https://grandbazaarnyc.org
- Best for: Shoppers who love finding unique gifts.
Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball
Love it or not, it’s iconic. Every year, the world watches as that famous crystal ball drops at midnight. If you’re brave enough to go in person, bundle up, pack patience, and let the chaos wash over you because it’s a true bucket-list moment.
- When: December 31, 2025
- Where: One Times Square (Broadway at 43rd Street)
- Tickets: Free admissionÂ
- Website: https://www.timessquarenyc.org
- Best for: Bucket-list NYE celebrators.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
Step inside Vanderbilt Hall and shop from local artisans selling jewelry, art, and handmade goods. It’s a festive spot to enjoy curated shopping.
- When: Until December 24, 2025
- Where: Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal (89 E 42nd Street, New York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://grandcentralterminal.com
- Best for: Gift givers and fans of classic NYC holiday charm.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
If you haven’t seen Dyker Heights during the holidays, make it happen this year. Whole blocks are covered in lights, giant Santas, and inflatable snowmen that take Christmas spirit to a new level.
- When: Usually until the end of the first week of January
- Where: From 11th to 13th Avenues (Dyker Heights Blvd) from 83rd to 86th St in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
- Tickets: Free to explore (paid guided tours also available)
- Best for: Families and anyone who loves going all out for the holidays.
Holiday Under the Stars: Columbus Circle
If you’re shopping at The Shops at Columbus Circle, you can’t miss the massive indoor light show. With 44 illuminated stars and 300,000 lights syncing to music every half hour, the whole space turns into a gentle, glowing escape.
- When: Until January 4, 2026
- Where: 10 Columbus CircleNew York
- Tickets: Free admission (some events are ticketed)
- Website: https://www.theshopsatcolumbuscircle.com
- Best for: People who love holiday lights but prefer to enjoy them indoors.
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards
Millions of lights, oversized décor, and free photos with Santa make the whole neighborhood feel like December on overdrive. Keep an eye out for the 32-foot hot air balloon floating in the atrium; it’s impossible to miss and perfect for photos.
- When: Until January 7, 2026
- Where: New York City
- Tickets: Free admissionÂ
- Website: https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com
- Best for: Over-the-top holiday lovers and families with energetic kids.
Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show
Saks is back with its famous synchronized light show, which is best viewed from Rockefeller Center’s Channel Gardens. It’s bright, dramatic, and pure New York.
- When: Until Early January 2026
- Where: 611 Fifth Avenue, New York City
- Tickets: Free admissionÂ
- Best for: Visitors and locals who never get tired of holiday traditions.
Macy’s 2025 Holiday Windows
This year, Macy’s celebrates stories from its own holiday past with whimsical scenes that look straight out of a classic Christmas film. It’s sweet, nostalgic, and perfect for a slow stroll.
- When: Usually until January 2026
- Where: Macy’s Herald Square (stretches along Broadway between 34th and 35th Streets)
- Tickets: Free to visitÂ
- Website: https://www.macys.com
- Best for: Window-shopping wanderers and holiday decor lovers.
New York Transit Museum Holiday Train Show
Grand Central turns into a miniature holiday dreamland. Model trains zip past tiny versions of NYC landmarks, including a small Grand Central itself.
- When: Until February 2026
- Where: New York Transit Museum Gallery & Store (Shuttle Passage) Grand Central Terminal, 89 E 42nd Street, New York
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://grandcentralterminal.com
- Best for: Families and anyone who grew up loving model trains.
Bryant Park’s Winter Village
This winter haven in Midtown makes cold weather feel fun. The free skating rink (bring your own skates) is the star, but the food stalls and 190+ holiday shops turn it into an afternoon-long hangout.
- When: Winter Village – Until March 1, 2026 / Holiday Market – Until January 4, 2026
- Where: 41st Street and, 6th Ave, New York
- Tickets: Free and paid
- Website: https://bryantpark.org
- Best for: Skaters, shoppers, and anyone needing a cheerful break.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Cirque du Soleil “Twas the Night Before…”
Cirque du Soleil reimagines the classic holiday poem with humor, heart, and jaw-dropping stunts. It’s festive without being predictable.
- When: December 4-28, 2025
- Where: The Theater at Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.cirquedusoleil.com
- Best for: Families and theater fans.
Z100’s Jingle Ball
Madison Square Garden turns into a pop destination for one night. Ed Sheeran, Zara Larsson, MONSTA X, and more take the stage for quick, hit-packed sets that keep the crowd buzzing.
- When: December 12, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.msg.com
- Best for: Pop fans and concert lovers.
SantaCon NYC 2025
December 13 is when New York turns into a sea of Santas. Thousands of people dressed as Santa (plus the occasional elf or reindeer) roam the city for a day-long pub crawl that doubles as a charity event.
- When: December 13, 2025
- Where: Venues and bars will be announced a week before the event
- Tickets: Click here (donation/ticket and drinks).
- Website: https://santacon.nyc
- Best for: Partygoers and bar-hoppers.
Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar
This themed holiday bar lets you enjoy glitter, themed cocktails, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to lip-sync to “All I Want for Christmas Is You” even if no one asks.
- When: Until December 28, 2025
- Where: Untitled Hotel (3 Freeman Alley, Freeman Alley, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Instagram: @mariahsholidaybar
- Best for: Anyone who loves holiday cocktails and Mariah fans.
Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark
Watermark turns its waterfront space into a snowy holiday installation with trees, games, and activities for all ages. You can go for free hot chocolate or upgrade to a heated glasshouse reservation with food and cocktails.
- When: Until December 30, 2025
- Where: 78 South Street, at Pier 15Â
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.santaswinterwonderlandnyc.com
- Best for: Families, couples, and groups wanting a festive waterfront moment.
Santa’s Secret
This is not your typical holiday event. Hidden behind a speakeasy door, Santa’s Secret mixes cocktails, cabaret, burlesque, and a cheeky variety show that’s made for grown-ups.
- When: Until December 31, 2025
- Where: 10 Columbus Cir, Level 4, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://santassecret.co
- Best for: Adults who like their holidays with a side of fun.
Miracle on 9th Street
One of NYC’s OG Christmas bars is back with garlands, ornaments, and holiday cocktails served in whimsical glassware. It’s festive, loud, crowded… and that’s exactly why people love it.
- When: Until December 31, 2025
- Where: 649 E 9th St, New York
- Reservations: Click here.
- Website: https://www.miraclepopup.com
- Best for: Holiday bar-hoppers and friend groups looking for a fun night out.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 2025
This one’s a must every holiday season. The New York City Ballet brings the classic story of Clara and the Sugarplum Fairy to life with stunning sets and a Christmas tree that seems to grow before your eyes.
- When: Until January 3, 2026
- Where: 20 Lincoln Center, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.nycballet.com
- Best for: Ballet lovers, couples, and holiday traditionalists.
Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular 2025Â
It doesn’t get more New York than this. The Rockettes are celebrating 100 years this season, and the show features dazzling numbers, including the iconic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.”
- When: Until January 4, 2026
- Where: Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Ave, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.rockettes.com
- Best for: First-timers, families, and theater lovers.
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
This December, walk through a glowing tunnel of lights, sip mulled wine, and snap a photo under the illuminated Winter Cathedral. With over a million lights and a curated playlist, it’s a perfect spot to take a break from crowded streets.
- When: Until January 4, 2026
- Where: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.bbg.org
- Best for: Date nights and evening strolls.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
The Bronx Zoo lights up with glowing animals, lantern trails, and even snow tube slides this season. Between the music, cocoa stands, and the new illuminated throne, there’s plenty to keep you smiling.
- When: Until January 4, 2026
- Where: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://bronxzoo.com
- Best for: Families, kids, and animal lovers.
Edge NYC x Museum of Ice Cream: Pinkmas
Pinkmas goes high up this year, taking over Edge with giant ice cream pints, colorful installations, and plenty of photo moments, paired with that iconic skyline view.
- When: Until January 5, 2026
- Where: 30 Hudson Yards, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.edgenyc.com
- Best for: Anyone who likes their holidays bright and playful.
Christmas Carousel
A two-level carousel right in Greeley Square? It’s happening. It runs daily and gives the city a nostalgic touch in the middle of busy Midtown.
- When: Until January 6, 2026
- Where: Greeley Square (33rd Street and Broadway)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://34thstreet.org
- Best for: Families and date nights.
New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
This annual favorite features model trains gliding through tiny NYC landmarks built entirely from plants. You’ll spot the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Rockefeller Center made from bark and twigs—it’s pretty amazing.
- When: Until January 11, 2026
- Where: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.nybg.org
- Best for: Art lovers, kids, and families.
Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off
This sweet annual tradition brings bakers together to recreate iconic New York landmarks in gingerbread form. It’s artsy, nostalgic, and genuinely impressive, so prepare to leave craving something frosted.
- When: Until January 19, 2026
- Where: Museum of the City of New York (1220 5th Ave, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.mcny.org
- Best for: Families, creatives, and anyone who loves edible architecture.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Skating here feels like stepping into a holiday movie. It’s busy during the peak season, sure, but once you’re under the famous tree, gliding past the golden Prometheus, the magic hits instantly.
- Where: 600 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.rockefellercenter.com
- Best for: Tourists and anyone seeking that New York holiday moment.
Skate at Domino Park
This Brooklyn rink brings winter fun to the waterfront with DJ nights, themed parties, and kid-friendly sessions. The skyline backdrop doesn’t hurt either; it’s a picture-perfect way to spend the day.
- When: Until February 22, 2026
- Where: 15 River St, Brooklyn
- Price: Click here.
- Website: https://www.dominopark.com
- Best for: Groups of friends and casual skaters.
Gottesman Rink at the Davis Center
Central Park’s new rink in Harlem has quickly become a local favorite. You can take lessons, try hockey, or join themed skating sessions, all with serene views of the Harlem Meer.
- When: Until March 8, 2026
- Where: East side of Central Park (between 106th and 108th Streets)
- Tickets: Adults (17+) – $10 peak / $5 off-peak, Children (ages 4–16) – $5 for all sessions, Children (3 and under) – Free for all sessions, Skate Rentals – $10, Add-ons – Lock purchase $5; Skate aids $10; Skate sharpening $15
- Website: https://daviscenter.centralparknyc.org
- Best for: Families and local skaters.
Wollman Rink in Central Park
There’s something timeless about skating here. Between the skyline, the music, and that Central Park calmness, it’s a winter must whether you’re on a date or with family.
- When: Until March 15, 2026
- Where: 830 5th Ave, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://wollmanrinknyc.com
- Best for: Couples, kids, and first-time visitors.
Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Skating under the Brooklyn Bridge is something every New Yorker or tourist should try once. The skyline views are unbeatable, and the lights make everything feel cinematic.
- When: Starting November 24, 2025
- Where: Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn
- Tickets: Click here (Now on Sale).
- Website: https://www.roeblingrink.com
- Best for: Couples and skyline photo seekers.
Concerts
Pentatonix – Christmas in the City Tour
If you want holiday music with goosebumps included, this is it. The Grammy-winning a cappella group delivers flawless harmonies that fill every corner of the venue.
- When: December 7, 2025
- Where: UBS Arena
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.home.ptxofficial.com
- Best for: Holiday music fans and families.
Lorde – The Ultrasound World Tour
Lorde’s back with her most personal album yet, and her shows are the perfect mix of energy and emotion. Expect to hear new tracks, plus some nostalgic favorites.
- When: December 16-17, 2025
- Where: Barclays Center ( 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.lorde.co.nz
- Best for: Indie pop fans and concertgoers.
Andrea Bocelli
Hearing Andrea Bocelli live is a full-body experience. His voice is as powerful as ever, filling the venue with emotion and leaving everyone a little misty-eyed.
- When: December 17-18, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.andreabocelli.com
- Best for: Classical music fans and romantic souls.
Christmas Carols By Candlelight
If you want something slower-paced, this candlelit concert is a beautiful way to unwind. Familiar carols played by a string quartet make it feel intimate and warm.
- When: December 21, 2025
- Where: Sony Hall (235 W 46th St, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://candlelightexperience.com
- Best for: Traditionalists and anyone who needs a breather.
Jonas Brothers – Living The Dream Tour
They’re back celebrating 20 years of music, and the nostalgia hits hard. So, prepare for throwbacks and plenty of sing-alongs that make you forget it’s been two decades.
- When: December 22, 2025
- Where: Barclays Center ( 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://jonasbrothers.com
- Best for: Millennials and pop fans.
Other Events/Activities to Check Out
- Passport to Santa – Until December 31 at 10 Columbus Cir, Level 4, New York | Ticketed
- Urbanspace Holiday Pop-Up Markets – Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park: Until January 4, 2026 | Macy’s Holiday Square Outdoor Market by Urbanspace: Until December 30, 2025 (35th-36th street); Until January 3, 2026 (32nd-33rd street and 34th-35th street) | Union Square Holiday Market: Until December 24, 2025 | Columbus Circle Holiday Market: December 2-31, 2025
- You Found Me SKULLPANDA Pop-Up – Until January 6, 2026, at Penn District (430 7th Avenue, New York) | Free admission (RSVP recommended)
- PAC-MAN 45th Anniversary Macy’s Pop-Up – Until January 18, 2026 at Macy’s Herald Square (151 West 34th Street, New York) | Free admission
- The Seaport Holiday Tree Lighting – December 2 at The Corner of Water St. and Fulton St. | Free admission (RSVP recommended)
- New York Stock Exchange Tree Lighting – December 4 at Wall & Broad St, New York
- Top of the Rock at the Holidays – December 4, 2025-January 10, 2026 at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York | Ticketed
- Burna Boy – No Sign of Weakness Tour – December 6 at UBS Arena | Ticketed
- Historic Richmond Town Community Tree Lighting – December 5, 2025 at 441 Clarke Ave, Staten Island | Free to attend
- Field + Supply NYC Market – December 6-7 at Starrett Lehigh Building (601 W 26th St, New York) | Ticketed
- JAPAN Fes – December 6 at New Rochelle | Free admission
- Park Avenue Tree Lighting – December 7 in New York City
- Broadway Under the Stars – December 11: SIX The Musical, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), The Queen of Versailles
- American Museum of Natural History: The Origami Holiday Tree – Open for the season at 200 Central Park West, New York | Included with museum admission
Still Got Energy After All That?
If you’re planning to make the most of your month in the city, this list should fill your calendar with enough lights, markets, and ice to keep things festive. But if concerts are more your thing, check out my guide to 15+ Must-See NYC Concerts This December 2025 — it’s packed with this season’s biggest live shows and musical highlights across the city.
More…
