New York City at Christmas and New Year?

Question

I am going to New York for Christmas and New Year and was wondering if there are any special events that are going on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve? Shows? Parades? anything?

Also, obviously there is Times Square for New Year. Any advice on this? What time should I arrive? What goes on before? Anything going on after 12? any costs?

Thanks

Answer 1

There's the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center but that's usually in mid or late November. This year though, there are rumors that it might be done in early December. The windows of the major department stores put on extravagant window displays that lots and lots of people go to see. At Radio City Music Hall, the Rockettes hold their annual show or extravaganza. It's a really good show to watch.

On New Year's eve, aside from the ball drop at Times Square, fireworks are also held over the water. I guess you should go there really early since the nearer it gets to midnight, the more crowded it gets and certain streets are blocked already. I'd also suggest staying at a restaurant or bar near it so you can more easily rush out for the ball drop when it happens.

Answer 2

They have many Broadway shows. They have the lighting of the Christmas tree, The Macy's Day Parade

For New Year's Eve they have the dropping of that ball. You could watch it on Tv or i think you can go there.

Answer 3

My friend, there is no Christmas parade in New York City on Christmas Day, however, you can catch a Broadway Show, as well as the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

Good luck

Answer 4

The last place I would go is Times Square New Years Eve. It's nuts.

Answer 5

not sure if there's anything "specific" going on Christmas, but for New Year's Eve, you'll need to get there hours before the ball drops, because the police will barricade off the streets. i'd say get there by 6pm or even before.

and right at midnight the Midnight Run should still be taking place in Central Park, along with fireworks.

Answer 6

Times square is not so much fun on New Years.  There are a lot of people standing around for several hours waiting for that minute of excitement.  And it is an alcohol free zone.  I can understand if you still want to go.  there are no costs associated with it.

Much of the city is decked out for the Holidays.  Some stores go all out decorating their windows, like Sachs, Right by the Rockefeller center tree, Lord and Taylor, About 3/4 mile south of there.  Macy's at 34th and 7th ave, the stores along 57th street.  There's the forty foot snowflake at 57th and fifth.  Bloomingdale's at 59th and Lexington..

The Christmas show at Radio city, part of Rockefeller Center is a tradition.  

No parades at this time.