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Top 7 Things to Do in NYC during the Holiday Season – 2016 Edition

Nothing beats the holiday season in New York City! There is just something magical about it and we look forward to it every year. So with that in mind, here is our list of the top seven things to do in New York City during the holiday season, 2016 edition.

Catch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is probably best known for its giant balloons featuring some of the most iconic characters from our childhood. From Pikachu to Spongebob Squarepants floating along Central Park West and 6th Ave, you just never know who will be featured. Of course, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has to end with Santa Claus signifying the start of the Christmas season!

Take in the Macy’s Christmas window displays

Macy’s also has some spectacular Christmas themed window displays at their flagship store on 34th Street year after year. In addition, the department stores on 5th Avenue also has some outstanding holiday displays. Best of all, checking out all of these amazing Christmas displays is free!

Be sure to make your way to the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree
Rockefeller Christmas Tree

The gigantic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is an icon of the holidays in New York City. It will definitely make you say wow when you see it in person. Plus if you ever get the chance, the Christmas tree lighting (November 30) is a huge event with live performances and it draws people from around the world.

Shop at the pop up holiday markets
Bryant Park Holiday Shops 2

Shopping for the perfect gift for your friends and family? Be sure to stop by the pop up holiday markets that are scattered throughout the city. Some holiday markets to keep an eye on are the ones in Union Square, Bryant Park and Columbus Circle. With tons of shops, there is definitely something for everyone.

Get tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an annual holiday musical starring the world famous Rockettes. It is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit and it is scheduled to run from November 11th through January 2nd 2017.

Ice skate in one of New York City’s famous rinks
Bryant Park Ice Skating

Ice skating in New York City is a lot of fun and there are several famous ice skating rinks. Bryant Park has the only free ice skating rink if you bring your own pair of ice skates, Rockefeller Center’s ice skating rink by the iconic Christmas tree has the best holiday atmosphere and Wollman Rink in Central Park has been featured in several movies. You can’t go wrong with any of them.

Check out the Dyker Heights holiday lights displays

Dyker Heights holiday lights is a treasured Christmas tradition in what is considered a quiet Brooklyn neighborhood (for most of the year). During the holiday season all the extravagant Christmas light displays are brought out and it creates a nationally famous festive atmosphere and it truly becomes a wonderful winter wonderland fit for the movies.

Be sure to also check out our other holiday themed blog posts for more ideas and share what is your favorite thing to do in New York City during the holiday season in the comment section below.