Christmas in NYC: Events & Activities for Families

Jennie Utsinger:  The Annual Christmas Show at the St. George Theater is a festive production set to holiday favorites such as “White Christmas”, “Let it Snow”, and “Go Tell It on the Mountain”. Journey to the North Pole, Times Square, and The Rainbow Room as you join local performers and dance companies in this celebration of the holiday season. Runtime is two hours.

Kelly R:  This one hour performance is a wonderful way for kids to experience The Nutcracker, featuring choreography by New York Theatre Ballet choreographer Keith Michael. Performances are held in the Winter Garden. Make sure to arrive early, as seating fills up quickly.

Jennie Utsinger:  Train lovers, rejoice! Every holiday season, the Holiday Nostalgia trains are put into service. The vintage subway car is from the 1930s and features rattan seats, incandescent bulb lighting, and original advertisements.

Nancy L.:  On a snowy Christmas Eve, Marie receives a wooden nutcracker as a gift. She falls asleep with the nutcracker next to her and an unbelievable story unfolds during this beautiful ballet. The Nutcracker has been delighting families at Christmas for generations. The Nutcracker originally debuted in Russia in 1892. This show debuted at the New York Ballet in February 1954. The performance runs 2 hours.

Nancy L.:  The New York Philharmonic’s performance of Messiah is a must-see holiday event for music lovers. This is ideal for older children. It's 2.5 hours with an intermission.

Nancy L.:  The Christmas Spectacular has featured the Parade of Wooden Soldiers and the Living Nativity since it first debuted in December 1933. There have been some updates over the years, but the show remains a "spectacular" way to celebrate the holiday season. This is a 90-minute show with no intermission.

Kelly R:  The impressive display captivates visitors of all ages with model trains that move through familiar NYC landmarks, and features a special theme that changes each year.

Nancy L.:  The Harlem Gospel Holiday Celebration is a one-hour seasonal concert that the organizers say will bring joy to your heart and soul! They say, "We intend to have you toe-clapping, foot-stomping, and singing along with the soulful rhythms of Black gospel music that will fill the church on these two days."

Nancy L.:  The New York Botanical Garden hosts its annual Holiday Train Show showcasing famous New York landmarks. With its iconic landscape and architectural treasures, there are 175 New York landmarks and thousands of lights.