New York City has always been synonymous with holiday magic, but the 2024 finale promises to be an especially vibrant climax. Tourism has rebounded strongly from the pandemic slump, with visitor numbers in 2023 nearing pre-pandemic highs at 62.2 million. This year, NYC is expecting even more tourists, anticipating a record-breaking 64.8 million visitors, reflecting the city’s enduring global appeal.
From traditional spectacles like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to trendy pop-up markets and immersive experiences, New York in December is a dazzling mix of classic charm and modern innovation. This year’s festivities are sure to draw an international audience, with a particular boost in domestic tourism, as local travelers seek out winter experiences closer to home. Here’s a curated list of the 10 best holiday experiences in the city this season.
1. ROCKEFELLER CENTER ICE SKATING
Experience the quintessential New York winter at the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, open daily from early November until late March. This iconic rink operates from 9 AM to midnight, with extended hours on weekends. A new heated viewing platform lets you enjoy the festive surroundings without braving the cold, making it an ideal family outing. Add to this experience the legendary Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree that marks the start of the holiday season. This year’s tree, towering and decked with thousands of LED lights, has its lights staying on until mid-January.
- Location: Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown Manhattan
- Dates: November 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025
- Hours: 9 AM – 12 AM
2. WINTER VILLAGE AT BRYANT PARK
The Winter Village returns with its signature European-style market, featuring over 170 unique vendors. Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy the free ice-skating rink, cozy igloos for rent, and festive treats like mulled wine and hot cocoa.
- Location: Bryant Park, 42nd Street & 6th Avenue
- Dates: October 27, 2024 – March 3, 2025
- Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM (Skating until 12 AM)
3. UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET
This celebrated market is back with handmade gifts, artisanal foods, and local crafts. Stroll through the festive stalls, sip on hot cider, and find unique holiday gifts for friends and family.
- Location: Union Square Park, 14th Street
- Dates: November 16, 2024 – December 24, 2024
- Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM (Sundays until 6 PM)
4. THE LIGHTS OF DYKER HEIGHTS
Known for its over-the-top Christmas lights, Dyker Heights is a must-visit. Local residents compete in a friendly rivalry, transforming their homes into festive wonderlands with twinkling lights, life-sized Santas, and animatronics.
- Location: Dyker Heights, Brooklyn (83rd to 86th Street, 11th to 13th Avenue)
- Dates: December 1, 2024 – January 1, 2025
- Hours: 5 PM – 9 PM
5. HOLIDAY POP-UP AT CHELSEA MARKET
A winter shopping haven with an eclectic mix of holiday goods, artisanal foods, and festive decorations. This year’s pop-up is expanding to include interactive craft workshops, making it an excellent spot for families.
- Location: Chelsea Market, 9th Avenue & 15th Street
- Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 3, 2025
- Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 8 PM
6. RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
The Rockettes are back for their annual tradition at Radio City Music Hall, featuring dazzling dance routines, iconic costumes, and a truly magical finale. A beloved NYC staple, this show is perfect for all ages.
- Location: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Avenue
- Dates: November 17, 2024 – January 5, 2025
- Hours: Multiple daily performances
7. BROOKLYN FLEA HOLIDAY MARKET
This trendsetting market is the place to find vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and quirky gifts. Set in a cozy indoor space, it’s a hip alternative to traditional holiday shopping.
- Location: 1 Hanson Place, Fort Greene, Brooklyn
- Dates: November 25, 2024 – December 31, 2024
- Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 10 AM – 6 PM
8. CHRISTMAS AT THE SEAPORT
The Seaport’s annual holiday celebration features a towering Christmas tree, ice sculptures, pop-up shops, and waterfront ice skating. Enjoy stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge while sipping seasonal cocktails.
- Location: South Street Seaport, Lower Manhattan
- Dates: November 23, 2024 – January 5, 2025
- Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
9. THE NUTCRACKER AT LINCOLN CENTER
George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker” is back at the David H. Koch Theater, showcasing a timeless performance that captures the magic of the holiday season. This year’s production includes updated choreography and new sets.
- Location: Lincoln Center, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza
- Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 31, 2024
- Hours: Showtimes vary
10. GRAND HOLIDAY BAZAAR
New York’s largest weekly market gets a festive makeover, offering an array of vintage decorations, unique crafts, and holiday-themed items. A portion of the proceeds supports local charities, making it a holiday activity with heart.
- Location: 100 West 77th Street, Upper West Side
- Dates: Every Sunday, November 26 – December 24, 2024
- Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
Tourism Impact on NYC Commercial Real Estate
New York City’s tourism industry has shown remarkable resilience and growth in recent years, particularly as the city ushers in the holiday season. After a significant downturn in 2020 due to the pandemic, visitor numbers have steadily rebounded. In 2021, the city welcomed 40 million visitors, continuing into 2022 with 57 million and in 2023 with over 60 million tourists. This surge in tourism steers the city’s commercial real estate market, particularly in retail and hospitality sectors. Increased foot traffic, higher occupancy rates, and rising consumer spending contribute to the overall health and vitality of the city’s economy. The momentum is expected to carry into 2025, with predictions of almost 70 million visitors.
Commercial real estate has responded with renewed interest in retail spaces for pop-ups and flagship stores, indicating a post-pandemic shift back to experiential shopping. The demand for flexible retail leases is likely to continue, catering to brands that capitalize on seasonal peaks, particularly during the holiday months. For investors, this tourism revival presents a golden opportunity, emphasizing the value of properties in prime districts as New York steadily returns to its former glory as a top global destination.
