The holiday season brings a ton of exciting and fun events to New York City. Although the city is right in our very own backyard, people forget that some monumental experiences are just a train or two away. This year, the holiday break is the perfect time to spend some time with loved ones in the city and experience the joy that the season brings.

Bryant Park’s Winter Village

New York City’s Winter Village is back until Mar. 2, 2025. There is ice skating, food, and many shops. The 17,000-square-foot ice skating rink is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on selected holidays and weekends.  Admission to walk around the Winter Village is free, but skate rentals can range from $18.72-$57.29, depending on what day and time you decide to go. There is a “Premium Skate” option which includes skate concierge, snacks, beverages, the Polar Lounge that is shared among others, skate rentals, and more ice time. That ranges to about $156-$182.

Their European-inspired market features artisans from around the world. There are crafts, clothes, jewelry and so much more. The shops are open Monday-Friday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Lodge Bar allows you to take a break from shopping and ice skating to have some drinks and delicious food such as ice cream, hot chocolate, cocktails, s’mores, and other treats. The lounge gives you a view of ice skaters on the rink.

Igloos are a cozy table that permits you to enjoy food and drinks privately. One igloo can hold up to eight people and each igloo session is 90-minutes. Packages for the igloo starts at $242.69 and can vary depending on the amount of guests. Small packages are for one to four people and it includes one choice of shared food and drinks. You must purchase a package to get a seat at the Igloo. It is located between the skating pavilion and the Christmas tree and is open during the village time. If you want to reserve your space, visit their website. 

Santa’s Winter Wonderland 

Santa’s Winter Wonderland is located on 78 South Street, at Pier 15. It is open from Nov. 8 to Dec. 31. They have a waterfront view, heated igloos, seasonal drinks, holiday decorations, games, and curated photos.

There are many ticket types to choose from — general admission is a full outdoor experience, with hot chocolate and you are able to meet Santa Claus. VIP general admission includes express line entry, hot chocolate, a free snack from the Santa’s Kitchen and a free Santa hat. Semi-private glasshouse reservations includes express admission to all activities, Santa meet and greet, free hot chocolate, Santa hats, and one food entree per guest. There is also a private glasshouse option and cocktail chalet seating that gives you all the perks of the semi-private glasshouse. General admission is approximately 45-60 minutes, glasshouse and chalet dining are 90 minutes with unlimited time outdoors. Early Bird tickets start at $15 and can range to $110.

There are many activities such as writing letters to Santa, sit in Santa’s Sleigh, ride the mini Carousel, Rudolph’s Game Room, and Santa’s s’more making fire pit. You can also have brunch with Santa on Saturdays and Sundays with Santa also giving out free toys to all kids. If you want to experience this goodness, visit their website here. 

Chrismukkah Concert at the Museum at Eldridge

This year, Christmas overlaps with the first day of Hanukkah. To celebrate, The Museum at Eldridge Street will play host to The Jazzukkah Project, jazz performances, “a sonic, er, spin on the beloved canon of Chanukah classics.”

There are many artists that will perform there, such as Gilad Abro, Elana Rosenfeld, Tom Oren, Alon Benjamini, and Gil Shefler. They will also have afternoon festivities like a special candle lighting ceremony. Doors will open at 2 p.m. on Dec. 25. Adults online tickets are $25 and $30 at the door, student/senior tickets are $20, children 5-17 are $15 online and $20 at the door, and children under five are free. If you want more information, check out the Museum at Eldridge Street. 

Hanukkah Candle Lighting

• Hudson Yards:

This event will be up until Wednesday, Dec. 25 5:50 p.m. through Saturday, Feb. 1, 10:30 p.m. The menorah will light up each night of Hanukkah, in Public Square and Gardens. Visit their website for more information. 

• Bell Monument:

Chanukah Giant Menorah Lighting is on Dec. 25, 26, 29, 30, and 31 at 4 p.m., Dec. 27 at 3:00 p.m., Dec. 28 6:30 p.m., and Jan. 1 4:00 p.m., at W. 239th St. & Riverdale Ave., Bronx. There will be food and live music. For more information, visit their site here.

• The Seaport:

The Chanukah Menorah Lighting & Celebration event will have live music, arts and crafts, such as face painting, popcorn, hot chocolate and traditional treats, and a six-foot tall menorah. This is their annual event hosted by the Chabad Jewish Center of FiDi in the afternoon on Sunday, Dec. 29 at 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Heineken Riverdeck at Pier 17, 89 South St. Leaving the Menorah on display on Nov. 25 to Jan. 3. RSVP is encouraged to secure your spot in activities but the event is free. For more information visit The Seaport website.