Christmas in New York City: Jazz, Lights & Unforgettable Holiday Things to See

New York City becomes a destination of pure magic during the holiday season. The streets sparkle with lights, parks transform into snowy scenes, and storefronts burst with festive displays. 

For visitors of all ages, including everyone from families, music lovers, and first-timers, there’s no shortage of things to see in New York at Christmas.

At Big Apple Jazz Tours, we believe the holiday season is the perfect time to blend culture, music, and memory-making together in one trip. In this holiday guide, we share not just the classic landmarks, but also the soulful, offbeat, and cozy jazz-inspired experiences that make this time of year truly unforgettable.

Let’s dive into the best things to see in New York City at Christmas, from a jazz-loving local’s point of view.

Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic sights in New York during the holidays. Each year, a towering evergreen is lit with over 50,000 LED lights and topped with a giant Swarovski crystal star in the plaza of the Rockefeller Center.

The plaza is alive with skaters, photoshoots, and visitors from around the world who have come to experience NYC during the holidays. Come early in the morning to enjoy the space before the crowds, or swing by late at night for a peaceful, glowing view. It’s one of the best things to see in New York City at Christmas.

Just across the street, you’ll find the dazzling Saks Fifth Avenue light show. It’s synchronized to music and plays every 10 minutes throughout the evening.

(Recommended spots nearby: Stop by Radio City Music Hall, then head to a cozy jazz bar in Midtown for live music and a warm drink.)

Catch Live Jazz for a Cozy Night Out

Christmas in New York is truly incomplete without experiencing live jazz. Whether you’re huddled into a Harlem club or seated at a Greenwich Village piano bar, jazz adds warmth and soul to winter nights.

Big Apple Jazz Tours offers year-round walking tours that bring you inside the city’s best clubs. In December, the vibe is even more magical with holiday tunes and festive cheer in every set.

Recommended reads:

• Where to Eat and Listen to Live Jazz in NYC

• Best Time for Jazz in NYC

Explore Holiday Windows Along Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue’s window displays are a walking art show. Stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s, and Saks turn their storefronts into holiday scenes filled with moving parts, music, lights, and themed storytelling.

Whether you’re with teens, family, or just strolling solo, this free and festive tradition is one of the highly suggested things to see in New York City at Christmas time. Start at the famous Central Park and make your way down to Bryant Park to hit all the best window displays.

Pro tip: Pair your stroll with a hot chocolate stop and a swing through Bryant Park’s Winter Village for extra holiday charm.

Ice Skating in Bryant Park and Central Park

Skating under twinkling lights is a true NYC holiday moment.

• Bryant Park Winter Village offers free admission to its rink (you only pay for rentals if needed), plus nearby food stands, pop-up gift shops, and music.
  
  
• Wollman Rink in Central Park offers a wide-open space with skyline views, ideal for snapping photos and soaking up the season.
  

Both locations are excellent for couples, kids, and especially teens who want something active and memorable. Ice skating is unquestionably one among the top things to see in New York City at Christmas time, or rather, experience. It might be a bit chilly so make sure to bring your hats, mittens and scarfs to stay warm.

Take a Trip to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Want a true NYC holiday hidden gem? Head to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. This residential neighborhood goes above and beyond with massive lawn displays, synchronized light shows, and rows of decked-out houses.

Many locals and visitors rank this experience among the top 10 things to see in New York at Christmas. For easy access, take a guided tour, or bundle up and hop on the subway to 86th Street, then walk into the glowing wonderland. Remember that these are people’s home so it is crucial to respect their property while enjoying the lights.

Visit the Holiday Markets

New York’s Christmas markets are full of charm and handmade magic. Perfect for gift shopping, food sampling, and festive photos.

Top picks:

• Bryant Park Winter Village: With over 180 vendors, this is NYC’s biggest holiday market.
  
  
• Union Square Holiday Market: A downtown favorite filled with local artists and treats.
  
  
• Columbus Circle Market: Near Central Park, great for gifts and gourmet snacks.
  

(Bonus: These markets often feature live performances and street music—some even with jazz trios performing seasonal tunes.)

Walk Through Central Park in the Snow

Central Park in snow takes on a new personality. During winter here, snow coats the trees, frozen ponds invite skaters, and horse-drawn carriages line the paths.

Take a walk through the Ramble, stop by Bethesda Terrace, or cross Bow Bridge. If you’re visiting with a camera, this is where you’ll capture some of your favorite holiday photos.

(Top recommendation: Warm up at one of the many jazz clubs around right after your stroll through the park.)

Stay at Jazz on the Park Hostel

For affordable and teen-friendly lodging, check out Jazz on the Park Hostel. Located near Central Park and subway lines, it’s ideal for holiday travelers on a budget.

You’re close to skating, markets, jazz clubs, and holiday lights—making it easy to explore the city on foot or by train.

Recommended read: Jazz on the Park Hostel NYC

Discover Lower Manhattan on Foot

Even in winter, a walking tour through Lower Manhattan is a great way to explore history and see the city from a quieter angle.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial, the New York Stock Exchange tree, and enjoy Battery Park’s views of the Statue of Liberty.

Recommended read: 6 Questions About Lower Manhattan

Plan Your Trip with Big Apple Jazz Tours

If you want to see New York at Christmas in a way that blends holiday spirit with music, warmth, and local insight—Big Apple Jazz Tours is your guide.

Their private tours are tailored for all ages, and their deep roots in the city’s jazz community ensure you’ll discover places and stories few tourists ever do.

Explore options at Big Apple Jazz Tours.

Final Thoughts

There are so many things to see in New York at Christmas—from glowing trees and window displays to snowy walks and soulful jazz sets. With a little planning, your holiday trip can blend festive fun with cultural depth.

Big Apple Jazz Tours helps you do just that—bringing you into the heart of the city’s music scene and guiding you through magical, meaningful NYC moments. Your New York winter itinerary should include all or at least most of these things to make your visit memorable!

This season, make your visit unforgettable. Feel the rhythm, see the lights, and experience New York like a local—with jazz in your heart and the city at your feet. 

Book a private jazz tour to get the best experiences that extend beyond jazz and create memories for a lifetime. Customize this tour according to your preferences! Also check all jazz tours to see if any other catches your attention!