Christmas in New York

The Holiday Train Show

The Holiday Train Show showcases more than 150 landmark replicas like Grand Central Terminal and The Statue of Liberty made of plant materials such as bark and leaves.

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New York Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show is a Christmas tradition in NYC. More than 20 miniature model trains wind through 150 iconic New York City landmarks, creating an outstanding replica of the five boroughs. The display is open November 22, 2017, through January 15, 2018.

New York City Ballet/Facebook

Another family favorite in New York City? Undoubtedly, “The Nutcracker” performed by The New York City Ballet.

Not only will you find plenty of beautiful seasonal goodies at the Bank Of America Winter Village at Bryant Park shops, but you’ll discover rows of artisanal shops selling jewelry, decor, local food, clothing and one-of-a-kind gifts. Funds from every purchase help support the park’s maintenance. In between your shopping sprees, skate in the village rink, check out the giant Christmas tree or sip on hot cider and extravagant treats (like chocolate-covered waffles) at the Bryant Park food kiosks.

Also check out

• Union Square Holiday Market   November 16-December 24, 2017 (closed Thanksgiving Day). Located in Union Square (14th to 17th Street between Broadway and Park Ave South), this outdoor market has over 150 vendors. It includes an array of gifts, from jewelry to leather goods.

• Columbus Circle Holiday Market  November 28-December 24, 2017. This market is similar to the Union Square Market. (It is run by the same people.) This location is at the southwest entrance to Central Park, so it could be done in conjunction with a trip to Wollman Rink! This market is slightly smaller than its downtown counterpart, with about 100 stalls.

• Artists and Fleas at Chelsea Market  This is a temporary pop-up bazaar located inside Chelsea Market (15th Street at 10th Avenue). It is the creation of a Brooklyn-based husband and wife team, who carefully select over 30 local artists and craftsman to display their work. For some funky, well-crafted and truly unique gifts, check out this market! They also now have locations in SoHo and Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

• Grand Central Holiday Fair   November 13-December 24, 2017.  This market is located in Vanderbilt Hall (inside Grand Central Terminal) and offers over 70 vendors, with things that you can’t find anywhere else in New York! (Past items have included hand-painted table linens and mosaic mirrors).  Hours:  Mon-Fri: 10am-8pm;  Sat 10:00am-7:00pm; Sun 11:00am–6:00pm; Closed Thanksgiving; Christmas Eve open 10:00am-6:00pm.

Macy’s window display Photo by Genevieve Rafter Keddy

Perhaps the most magical part about famously holiday-spirited Fifth Avenue is its brilliant window displays, with the most iconic being Bergdorf Goodman, Sax’s 5th Ave and Macy’s

“Bergdorf Goodman windows are such an important part of Christmas culture in New York,” says Kaler. “But watching the big reveal is mostly a thing that locals do, and because of that, it’s not a mob scene like a lot of the other holiday events.”

Insider Christmas events? Always a good thing. The windows will be revealed in November, but you’ll be able to see them throughout the holidays.

THE RIDE: Holiday Edition
THE RIDE takes a seasonal twist for a limited time to celebrate the wonder and magic of the holiday season in New York City! Now in its 7th critically acclaimed season! THE RIDE: HOLIDAY EDITION celebrates New York City during its most festive time of year and has become a key ingredient to its winter magic. It is, undoubtedly, one of the holidays most sought after family events.  This limited engagement will sell out. “Oh, what fun it is to RIDE!”