NYC & Company Inc.
09/10/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/10/2024 10:52
DISCOVER THE HOLIDAY MAGIC: NEW YORK CITY TOURISM + CONVENTIONS INVITES VISITORS TO EXPLORE NYC’S FIVE BOROUGHS
Approximately 7.5 Million Travelers Expected to Visit New York City This Holiday Season
Festive Events, Cultural Experiences, Special Hotel Deals and More on Offer Across All Five Boroughs
New York City (September 10, 2024) - New York City Tourism + Conventions, the official destination marketing organization for New York City's five boroughs, invites local and global visitors to join the festivities this holiday season, which kicks off in November with the arrival of Diwali and the 98th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Between November and January, a variety of festive performances, winter exhibits, holiday light displays and more will unfold across New York City's five boroughs, captivating and enchanting even the most discerning travelers.
"New York City is one of the world's most iconic and aspirational holiday destinations, and that magical energy is felt across all five boroughs," said New York City Tourism + Conventions' Chief Marketing Officer and Interim CEO, Nancy Mammana. "Roughly 7.5 million visitors will travel to NYC this year between Thanksgiving and New Year's to enjoy our restaurants, shopping, performing arts, attractions, tours, theater and more, creating spending all across the city that is critical to businesses large and small."
Here are some of the many ways to celebrate the holiday season in New York City:
ANNUAL CELEBRATIONS:
Diwali CelebrationsOctober-November | Citywide
The Festival of Lights will kick off the holiday season in New York City with several events taking place across the City throughout October and November. Presented in collaboration with The Culture Tree, Asia Society's Diwali Family Day on October 26 will feature Indian dance performances including a special interactive kids dance performance on Ramleela, arts and crafts, storytelling and mithai-making sessions; and special to-be-announced events at venues like Brooklyn Children's Museum, Children's Museum of Manhattan and the New York Public Library.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day ParadeNovember 28 | Manhattan The annual New York City celebration is returning for its 98th edition, featuring impressive helium balloons, creative floats, clowns, mesmerizing performance groups, popular Broadway musicals, celebrity appearances and much more. The parade will begin at its traditional starting point on West 77th Street and Central Park West, ending in front of Macy's Herald Square flagship store.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting CeremonyDecember 4 | Midtown Manhattan For over 80 years, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a quintessential NYC holiday tradition, lighting up Rockefeller Plaza throughout the festive season. The December 4 lighting will feature cheerful performances by soon-to-be-revealed artists. The tree will continue to spread festive spirit, remaining on display until mid-January.
Lighting of the Largest Menorahs in BrooklynDecember 25-January 2 | Prospect Heights, Brooklyn; Midtown Manhattan Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn and Manhattan will celebrate Hanukkah by lighting the largest menorahs nightly, offering live music, hot latkes and children's gifts throughout the festival.
New Year's Eve Times Square Ball DropDecember 31-January 1 | Midtown Manhattan The Times Square New Year's Eve Ball sparkles in Times Square all year long and throughout the season, but watching its descent in person on New Year's Eve is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime way to ring in the New Year. Millions view the broadcast event in NYC and around the globe along with spectators in Times Square on December 31. To be a part of the celebration, submit your wishes in person or digitally to be printed on the confetti that will be released during this year's celebration.
CHEERFUL PERFORMANCES:
October 19 | Midtown Manhattan Diwali at Times Square, the largest South Asian festival and concert in North America since 2013, will take place in Times Square on October 19. This annual free event celebrates the Festival of Lights and shares messages of love, peace, harmony and togetherness through India's rich art and culture, including dance, music and food.
10th Annual Diwali Festival at Flushing Town HallNovember 2 | Flushing, Queens On Saturday, November 2, Flushing Town Hall celebrates its 10th annual Diwali event with food, dance, music and art, featuring performances by lathak dancer Abha Roy, a bhangra dance party with DJ Rekha, and various cultural activities including cooking demonstrations, rangoli art and henna painting.
Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City RockettesNovember 8-January 5 | Midtown Manhattan Experience the beloved holiday tradition as it returns to the iconic stage of Radio City Music Hall. For almost a century, this festive show has enchanted audiences of all ages with its stunning costumes, joyful music, precise choreography and innovative performances. With multiple shows daily, now is the ideal time to be part of this timeless celebration. Tickets are now on sale.
A Christmas Carol at Merchant's House Museum
November 26-December 29 | Noho, Manhattan
Summoners Ensemble Theatre presents A Christmas Carol at the Merchant's House Museum, performed by John Kevin Jones as Charles Dickens. Running from November 26 to December 29, the 70-minute show takes place in an authentic 19th-century parlor adorned with period holiday decorations. Select performances from December 6-26 will offer a special reception featuring a reading of "A Visit from St. Nicholas" and holiday refreshments.
George Balanchine's The Nutcracker
November 29-January 4 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
Immerse yourself in the magic of George Balachine's The Nutcracker, a holiday classic. Follow young Marie as she faces the Mouse King and dances through a flurry of ballerinas to the enchanting Land of Sweets, all set to Tschaikovsky's iconic score. With stunning special effects, including a towering Christmas tree, dazzling sets and vibrant costumes, this production is a sensory delight for audiences of all ages.
December 1 | Flushing, Queens
Experience the holiday magic with New York Theatre Ballet's one-hour rendition of The Nutcracker, featuring Keith Michael's choreography and Tchaikovsky's beloved score in art nouveau style. Celebrating 45 years, the company pairs classic revivals with modern choreography, blending tradition with innovative performances.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet!
December 4 | Washington Heights, Manhattan
Share the magic of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet! with the whole family this holiday season. Featuring an international all-star cast, this beloved tradition combines world-class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes and stunning acrobatics.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at New York City CenterDecember 4-January 5 | Midtown Manhattan The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to New York City Center for its 66th annual winter season, offering a captivating mix of new works and beloved classics. This program features world premieres like Matthew Rushing's Sacred Songs and Lar Lubovitch's Many Angels, alongside the 25th-anniversary revival of Ronald K. Brown's Grace and a new production of Elisa Monte's Treading.
Holiday Festivities at The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine December 6-December 31 | Harlem, Manhattan In December, The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine will host a variety of festive events, including the juried show Crafts at the Cathedral from December 6-8, featuring handcrafted items from over 75 artisans. The Cathedral Christmas Concert on December 14 will include holiday classics and the return of the Great Organ. On December 19, the El Niño: Nativity Reconsidered performance will offer a contemporary take on the Nativity story.
December 9-January 5 | Greenwich Village, Manhattan
This holiday season, Blue Note Jazz Club presents trumpeter Chris Botti's highly anticipated 20th Annual Holiday Residency.
Holidays with the New York PhilharmonicDecember 11-December 22 | Upper West Side, Manhattan The New York Philharmonic, led by baroque expert Fabio Biondi, joins the Handel and Haydn Society Chorus and soloists for a performance of Handel's Messiah, highlighting its iconic vocal and orchestral melodies, with debut performances soprano Maya Kherani, countertenor Maarten Engeltjes and bass-baritone Klaus Mertens. The annual Holiday Brass tradition is also back with joyful music perfect for the whole family, promising to brighten the holiday season. Additionally, the Philharmonic will spread holiday cheer with live performances of the heartwarming classic Elf, featuring John Debney's score as the movie plays on the big screen.
December 12-22 | Fort Greene, Brooklyn
This holiday season, the Mark Morris Dance Group brings their whimsical and humorous twist on Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker to the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) with The Hard Nut. Featuring vibrant 1970's inspired costumes, this beloved production offers a quirky take on the classic ballet.
The Magic FluteDecember 12-January 4 | Upper West Side, Manhattan
This holiday season, experience the magic of Mozart's Magic Flute at The Met Opera in a captivating, family-friendly production by Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor. With stunning puppetry, vibrant visuals and timeless melodies, this abridged, English-language adaptation transforms the beloved fairy tale into an unforgettable New York tradition for all ages.
The Christmas Show December 13-15 | St. George, Staten Island
Celebrating its 21st year, the lively two-hour production, The Christmas Show, at St. George Theatre features over 100 volunteer performers in a festive showcase of songs, dances and holiday scenes. Highlights include local favorites, a Living Nativity and performances of classics like "White Christmas" and "O Holy Night." The St. George Theatre will also be hosting A Holiday Oldies Spectacular, with performances from The Bronx Wanderers, The Duprees, Frank Pizarro and more, on December 8.
Amateur Night at The Apollo: Holiday Special
December 14 | Harlem, Manhattan The Apollo Amateur Night Holiday Special brings festive cheer as it showcases talented alumni from the "Stars of Tomorrow" segment, all vying to make their mark like Apollo legends such as Ella Fitzgerald and H.E.R. Hosted by the comedian Capone, this holiday celebration features a lively pre-party with DJ Jess and Greginald Spencer, and includes the playful antics of C.P. Lacey, the resident "Executioner," adding a touch of humor to the seasonal festivities.
The Nutcracker at Kings TheatreDecember 14 | Flatbush, Brooklyn
The Grand Kyiv Ballet presents The Nutcracker, a heartwarming tale of dreams, magic and triumph. Featuring Ukraine's finest ballet dancers, this captivating performance follows a young girl and her nutcracker as they journey through a magical kingdom of dancing fairies and toy soldiers, discovering the power of love and kindness along the way.
December 14 | Glen Oaks, Queens Queens County Farm Museum invites visitors to its fifth annual free holiday reading of O. Henry's The Gift of the Magi on Saturday, December 14. In the farm's three-acre pasture, guests will gather to experience this timeless tale of love and sacrifice, enhanced by the crisp winter air and a special visit from Santa Claus, as well as hot chocolate and cookies (for purchase).
December 20-21 | Midtown Manhattan
The New York Pops' beloved holiday tradition, Merry and Bright, returns for two unforgettable nights of classic carols and contemporary favorites at the world-famous Carnegie Hall. Featuring Broadway star Jessica Vosk (Wicked), this special event promises to bring joy and cheer to all this festive season.
WINTER EXHIBITIONS AND CULTURAL EVENTS:
Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crè Dates to be announced | Upper East Side, Manhattan An NYC tradition, The Met's Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche display features a beautifully decorated tree with a nativity scene encircling its base. This originates from an assemblage of 18th-century Neapolitan figures generously contributed by American artist and collector Loretta Hines Howard in 1964.
A Christmas Carol: The Manuscript Dates to be announced | Murray Hill, Manhattan
Every holiday season, the Morgan displays Charles Dickens' original manuscript of A Christmas Carol in J. Pierpont Morgan's Library. Bound in red goatskin leather, the manuscript was gifted to Dickens' solicitor, Thomas Mitton, and later came into the possession of Pierpont Morgan in the 1890s. This season, the manuscript will be turned to page seven.
Winter Wonder Weekend at the Queens Botanical Garden
Dates to be announced | Flushing, Queens
Celebrate the festive season at Winter Wonder at the Garden with live performances, a menorah and tree lighting, holiday crafts and pictures with Santa. Enjoy the outdoor Holiday Market along with beverages from the Hot Chocolate Bar.
Dates to be announced | Upper West Side, Manhattan Showcasing more than 1,000 hand-crafted models, the delightfully decorated Origami Holiday Tree is a must-visit this holiday season at the American Museum of Natural History.
Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection
Dates to be announced | Upper West Side, Manhattan
At the New-York Historical Society, an annual wintertime favorite unfolds: the Jerni Collection takes center stage, displaying handcrafted and hand-painted toy trains spanning 1850 to 1940. Alongside these, an assortment of toy train stations illustrates the design evolution from the early 20th century to the era of World War II.
Holiday Train ShowNovember 16-January 20 | Bedford Park, The Bronx Visitors can experience the Holiday Train Show, where model trains and trolleys wind through a festive outdoor lawn display and inside the Haupt Conservatory, showcasing replicas of New York City's iconic architecture. By day or night, the show captures the magic of the season, with special evening events, Holiday Train Nights, offering illuminated scenes and holiday treats on select dates in November, December and January. Tickets go on sale on September 12.
Season's Greetings from PaleyLand at The Paley Center November 20-January 5 | Midtown Manhattan Celebrate the holidays at The Paley Museum, located just steps from Rockefeller Center. Visitors are invited to revel in PaleyLand, a five-floor immersive holiday experience featuring photos with Santa, free hot chocolate, holiday train displays, crafts, holiday screenings and more.
Kick Off to Kwanzaa Celebration at Queens Library Langston Hughes
December 14 | Corona, Queens
Visitors are invited to celebrate Kwanzaa at Queens Library Langston Hughes with a day of music, dance, food and community spirit. This free in-person event is an ideal way to celebrate Kwanzaa with family and friends, offering a special celebration of culture and unity.
HOLIDAY SIGHTS & LIGHTS:
Dates to be announced | Bronx Park, The Bronx With more than 390 lanterns representing nearly 100 animal and plant species, the Bronx Zoo's family-centric holiday lights festival will connect visitors with real wildlife and festivities. During the evenings, the park comes to life with holiday cheer as immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns and animated light shows sparkle across the zoo. The celebration is complete with seasonal treats, classic holiday music, the Holiday Train, new interactive experiences and other entertainment.
34th Street Holiday Window Displays
Dates to be announced | Midtown Manhattan
34th Street will be a centerpiece of holiday festivities, with the Empire State Building celebrating the 21st anniversary of Elf and Macy's Herald Square unveiling its iconic, magical window displays. In addition, Penn Station will be festively decorated, and nearby stores will also contribute with their own creative holiday windows, making 34th Street a vibrant destination for holiday cheer.
Holiday Under the Stars at The Shops at Columbus
Mid-November-January | Midtown Manhattan
As The Shops at Columbus Circle celebrates 20 years as one of New York City's most iconic culinary, shopping and cultural destinations, a brand-new, glimmering "Holiday Under the Stars" installation will be revealed this holiday season, brimming with 300,000 twinkling lights and illuminated stars that transform the property into a kaleidoscope of colors. Free to the public, newly choreographed light shows featuring 44 glowing, color-changing stars will dance across the dramatic 74-foot-high Great Room every 30 minutes from 5pm to midnight daily, enveloping guests in a captivating holiday atmosphere throughout every level.
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards Presented by Wells FargoDates to be announced | Hudson Yards, Manhattan Presented by Wells Fargo, Shine Bright at Hudson Yards will once again adorn the neighborhood with 115 miles of string lights, 725 evergreen trees and 16-foot-tall, illuminated set pieces in the shape of hot air balloons arranged through the Public Square & Gardens. A 32-foot hot air balloon centerpiece will be suspended in The Great Room of The Shops & Restaurants. In addition to the enchanting lights, visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, festive dining and free photo opportunities with Santa, beginning November 24.
Fifth Avenue 200th Anniversary, Holiday Window Displays & Third Annual Open Streets Program
November 21 throughout the holiday season | Midtown Manhattan This fall, Fifth Avenue will mark its 200th anniversary with in-store activations, exclusive merchandise and special events at luxury flagship stores and hotels. On December 8, a car-free celebration will feature food, performances and unique experiences from retailers. Fifth Avenue's popular Open Streets program will also return, transforming the area into a festive pedestrian zone with food vendors and live music from local choirs and ensembles. Throughout the season, custom tours will explore the avenue's rich history and iconic holiday window displays at stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., Cartier and Bergdorf Goodman.
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden November 22-January 5 | Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
Lightscape returns to Brooklyn Botanic Garden, offering an enchanting after-dark experience like never before. This year, visitors will be immersed in a mesmerizing nighttime journey through light-drenched landscapes, with brand-new installations by renowned international light artists and design collectives. Visitors are invited to wander along the illuminated trail under the moonlight, marveling at the magical interplay of light and nature. Seasonal treats and festive music enhance the atmosphere, making it a perfect holiday outing with friends and family.
Holiday Lights & Movie Sites Tour with On Location ToursNovember 29-January 2 | Manhattan Visitors can enjoy the holiday charm of New York City with On Location Tours, exploring famous landmarks and uncovering hidden gems featured in popular holiday films like Elf, Home Alone 2, Scrooged and more. Starting near Columbus Circle, the tour includes festive stops at Bloomingdale's, Rockefeller Center and the renowned ice-skating rink at Bryant Park.
The Original Christmas Lights Tour of Dyker Heights with A Slice of Brooklyn Bus ToursDecember | Dyker Heights, Brooklyn The Original Christmas Lights Tour of Dyker Heights invites visitors to explore this Brooklyn neighborhood, celebrated for its lavish and elaborate Christmas displays. Guided by locals who share stories behind the homeowners and their decorations, this 3.5-hour tour begins in Manhattan and is set to festive holiday music. It offers a mix of on- and off-bus views, taking in the dazzling lights of Dyker Heights, Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst. Along the way, enjoy vintage Christmas TV specials, and at the end, take home a commemorative fridge magnet as a memento of the experience.
FESTIVE HOTEL OFFERINGS:
NYC Hotel Week: Give the Gift of an NYC Hotel Stay this WinterOn sale from November 19 | Citywide New York City Tourism + Conventions' NYC Hotel WeekSM will return as part of NYC Winter OutingSM. Give the gift of New York City with a 25% discount on hotel stays at over 100 hotels. Reservations open November 19; valid for stays over January 2-February 9, 2025.
Letters to Santa at Lotte New York PalaceDates to be announced | Midtown Manhattan This festive season, the Lotte New York Palace offers the Palace Holiday Suites presented by Balsam Hill, featuring festive, uniquely designed suites, each in a different holiday palette. The hotel's beloved annual Letters to Santa program will also return and invites guests to write personalized letters with customized postcards provided at check-in, which the "Guest Experience Elves" will respond to. Additionally, visitors can admire a beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the courtyard.
Holiday Afternoon Tea and New Year's Eve with Wythe HotelNovember 1-December 31 | Williamsburg, Brooklyn For the holiday season, the Wythe Hotel is offering two exciting experiences at Bar Blondeau. For the first time, every Sunday in December guests can enjoy a luxurious Holiday Tea on the 6th floor, providing a relaxing escape for shoppers exploring Williamsburg, as well as for locals and hotel guests. Additionally, the hotel will host its annual New Year's Eve celebration, a ticketed event featuring an open bar, canapés and a champagne bar, ensuring a festive and memorable way to ring in the new year.
Winter Suite Savings Offer from Loews Regency New York
November 15-January 2 | Upper East Side, Manhattan
Celebrate the holiday season in style at Loews Regency New York with festive decor, complimentary champagne and hot cocoa every Friday and Saturday in December, and holiday-inspired cocktails (including low- and no-ABV beverage offerings) from the Free Spirited by Loews Hotels program. Guests can enjoy special seasonal menus for Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year's at The Regency Bar & Grill, and pamper themselves with beauty services at Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa. The Winter Suite Savings package offers exclusive discounts on suites, making it the perfect way to experience the magic of Manhattan during the holidays.
Holiday Cheer and the Suitest Season of All offering at The Plaza Hotel
November 16-January 6 | Midtown Manhattan
Celebrate the holiday season at The Plaza with Holiday Afternoon Tea, the Home Alone 2 experience, Eloise at Christmastime, Holiday Tappy Hour dancing performances, and beyond. This winter, the hotel also presents the "Suitest Season of All" offer, providing the ultimate holiday getaway in New York City. Visitors will find their luxurious suite adorned with a festive floral arrangement and a 7-foot tall, beautifully decorated Balsam Hill tree. A chef-inspired holiday-themed welcome amenity adds to the seasonal charm of this exclusive experience.
Festive Floral Display and Holiday Decor at Park Hyatt New York November 22-January 6 | Midtown Manhattan This holiday season, Park Hyatt New York will showcase a stunning festive floral display by Flowerbx. The display will feature a red and gold-themed holiday decor with large, luxurious wrapped presents throughout the lobby and elevator landings, complemented by blue pine trees and crimson florals. A magnificent tree will also greet guests in the ground-level lobby. The hotel plans to offer dining experiences and specialty cocktails for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve, in its signature restaurant, The Living Room, and during December, guests can enjoy a hot cocoa station after exploring the City. Younger guests will also have the chance to write letters to Santa.
New Year's Eve Exclusive Offer at M Social Hotel Times SquareDecember 31 | Midtown Manhattan Celebrate the New Year and be a part of the Times Square Ball Drop with an exclusive package from M Social Hotel Times Square. With this exclusive offer, guests can save 10% on a room showcasing a full or partial view of the iconic ball drop and join in on the thrilling countdown firsthand.
The Ultimate New Year's Eve Experience atop Times Square at The KnickerbockerDecember 31 | Midtown Manhattan Celebrate New Year's Eve in style at The Knickerbocker Hotel, located just 150 feet below the Times Square Ball-the closest live view available. This extravagant rooftop event offers luxurious packages, including a gourmet buffet at Charlie Palmer, premium open bar, live entertainment and a Dom Pérignon champagne toast, ensuring an unforgettable Times Square experience.
Ring in 2024 at the New York Marriott MarquisDecember 31 | Midtown Manhattan Celebrate the New Year in style amid the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square at the New York Marriott Marquis. Guests will experience spacious accommodations and prime views of the ball drop-and create lasting memories with the hotel's exceptional celebrations.
ICE SKATING & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:
Festive shopping at New York City's Holiday Markets
Throughout the holiday season | Manhattan & Brooklyn
Visitors are invited to grab a cup of hot cocoa and brave the cold to find the perfect gift on anyone's list at the three big outdoor markets-Union Square Holiday Market (November-December), Holiday Shops at Winter Village at Bryant Park (October-January) and Columbus Circle Holiday Market (November-December)-or stay warm at the indoor Grand Central Holiday Fair (November 11-December 24), Brooklyn Flea (Saturdays and Sundays, April-December) and Chelsea Flea (weekends only, year-round). Head to the Upper West Side for the indoor and outdoor Grand Holiday Bazaar (Sundays) or venture to the Brooklyn Borough Hall Holiday Market in Downtown Brooklyn (November-December), featuring 100 vendors selling locally crafted wares.
The Rink at Manhattan West Dates to be announced | Midtown Manhattan Located a block away from Madison Square Garden, The Rink at Manhattan West offers daily public skating and provides a unique experience amid skyscrapers in Manhattan West's expansive public plaza, conveniently located steps away from Moynihan Train Hall.
Glide at Brooklyn Bridge ParkDates to be announced | Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Experience the allure of skating beneath the historic Brooklyn Bridge while taking in the stunning Manhattan skyline views at Glide, the latest ice rink in New York City. After enjoying the ice, savor a diverse selection of café and beverage options featuring the City's most exciting culinary creations. Explore the essence of Brooklyn this winter season at Glide, whether as a local celebrating the borough or a visitor discovering its unique charm.
The Rink at Bryant ParkDates to be announced | Midtown Manhattan Returning for its 23rd season, NYC's beloved Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park invites visitors to enjoy the City's largest free-admission ice-skating rink, a vibrant holiday market with nearly 200 vendors and the cozy rinkside bar and food hall at The Lodge. The Winter Village typically opens in late October, just in time for Halloween, and remains open through early March, providing a long season of holiday festivities.
October-March | Central Park, Manhattan Wollman Rink's 2024-2025 ice season opens to the public this fall, inviting visitors and locals to kick off the season and enjoy skating in Central Park with the picturesque Manhattan skyline in the background. This season, Wollman Rink is continuing its partnership with ID NYC, Culture Pass and its signature offering of the Wollman Rink Access Program, to help provide access to New Yorkers who have historically not been able to afford to visit the rink. Skaters of all ages and levels can sign up for lessons through Wollman Rink Skate School-registration is now open on the Wollman Rink website-and New Yorkers and visitors can look forward to family-friendly programming and other special events throughout the season.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
October 12 through March | Midtown Manhattan The world-famous ice-skating rink is back for the holidays, offering the classic NYC experience of skating under the iconic Christmas tree. Rockefeller Center, in collaboration with Coach, will once again offer exciting additions, including a unique holiday gift shop, a custom hospitality cart with special treat, and live on-site patch customization for a curated line of Coach products. Santa will also join skaters on the ice in December.
Classic Harbor Line Holiday-Themed Cruises November 16 throughout the holiday season | Manhattan Celebrate the holiday season aboard Classic Harbor Line's elegant 1920s-style yachts. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline while indulging in complimentary hot cocoa, sweet treats and live entertainment. With options including holiday brunches, festive cruises with carols and a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration with fireworks, these cruises offer a unique and memorable experience on the water, with captivating views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
City Cruises Holiday-Themed Cruises Aboard the November 28-January 1 | Manhattan Experience the charm of NYC from the water on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's with festive dining cruises, inclusive of live entertainment. Visitors are invited to delight in the festive decor, delectable meals and breathtaking city views from the comfort of the climate-controlled interior decks while gliding across the East and Hudson Rivers under the skyline. NYE cruises include fireworks display and an open bar.
NYRR Midnight Run in Central Park December 31-January 1 | Midtown Manhattan Visitors are invited to jet into 2025 with a head start at the NYRR Midnight Run. As 2024 comes to an end, the countdown to the new year begins at 11:59pm, and at the stroke of midnight, a fireworks display will light up the night sky and kick off the start of the four-mile race.
Coney Island Polar Plunge January 1 | Coney Island, Brooklyn Every January 1, the Polar Bear Club and fearless participants take the plunge into the icy waters of Coney Island. Locals and visitors are invited to watch as hundreds of adventurous people dive into the freezing Atlantic Ocean. The event is free to join, but participants are encouraged to make donations to support local community organizations in lieu of an entry fee.
In 2023, tourism to New York City generated an estimated $74 billion in economic impact with more than $48 billion in direct spending. This activity supported over 380,000 leisure and hospitality jobs-roughly 9% of the City's workforce-and thousands of small and minority-owned businesses across all five boroughs. In 2023, NYC welcomed 62.2 million visitors-50.6 million domestic and 11.6 million international. In 2024, visitation is expected to grow to 64.8 million, a 97% recovery of 2019 record levels.
About New York City Tourism + Conventions
New York City Tourism + Conventions is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) and convention and visitors bureau (CVB) for the five boroughs of New York City. Our mission is to invite the world and energize the City, building equitable, sustainable economic prosperity and community through tourism for the mutual benefit of residents, businesses and visitors. For all there is to do and see in New York City, visit nyctourism.com.