Winter Wonderland: Enjoying Winter in New York City

Holiday Season in New York

New York is a big city, and big cities mean celebrations. The holiday season in New York City is filled with spectacular traditions, events, and decorations that draw in millions of visitors each year. Streets come alive with festive lights, and iconic venues hold special events, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

It’s been a New York tradition to kick off the holidays with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for nearly a century. This beloved parade features giant balloons, marching bands, and incredible floats. Families and friends line the streets (or sit in front of the television) to watch the procession, eagerly awaiting the appearance of Santa Claus.

Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Rockefeller Center

Who hasn’t seen a picture of the massive tree at the Rockefeller Center? Every year, the  Rockefeller Center tree brings holiday cheer with a Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. The ceremony, attended by thousands, signals the start of the Christmas season in NYC.

New Year's Eve in Times Square

Ring in the New Year on a high note with the iconic Times Square ball drop. Feel your excitement build as thousands of people count down to the New Year. With live music and lively crowds, New Year’s Eve in Times Square is a must-experience event for those who want to start the year with unforgettable energy.

Chinese Lunar New Year in Chinatown

Why celebrate one New Year, when you can celebrate two? After the Ball Drops, come back to the city to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chinatown. With traditional performances, lion dances, and cultural festivities, this event is a striking celebration of Chinese heritage. The streets are adorned in red and gold, creating a vibrant backdrop against the winter blues.

Winter Wonderland

From the snow-covered landscapes of the parks to festive holiday villages, New York City is a winter wonderland. Even those who hate the snow will find themselves melting over the holiday decorations that deck the city streets. If you are looking for a feast for the eyes, these destinations capture the essence of winter magic in the city.

Winter Walk in Central Park

You can’t visit Manhattan without spending time at the park. With 843 acres to explore, this park adds a little natural beauty to the city.  In winter you can enjoy its snow-draped trees, frozen ponds, and scenic pathways. The park is perfect for ice skating, sledding, or simply taking a romantic, snowy stroll.

Winter Village at Bryant Park

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to shop in a fairytale? The Winter Village at Bryant Park is your opportunity to find out. This delightful holiday market includes ice skating, local vendors, and cozy eateries. It is the perfect place to pick up some unique holiday gifts.

5th Avenue window displays

To add a little high-end glamor to your holiday shopping, check out some of Manhattan’s best designer shops. Famous department stores along 5th Avenue unveil spectacular holiday window displays each year, showcasing intricate designs and scenes that capture the elegance of the winter season in New York.

Christmas Lights Tours

New York City is lit by neon signs all year round, but in winter that neon glow meets its match- the twinkling of electric lights. One of the most beautiful things about the city during the winter season is all of the holiday light displays! Thousands of little lights cover the city like stars. To see the best of it, try one of these tours:

• New York city Christmas Lights Private Horse Carriage Ride
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guided Tour
• New York Christmas Holiday Small-group Walking Tours

Staying Warm Indoors

If the cold of a New England winter is too much to bear, you can enjoy the splendor of the city indoors. New York City offers plenty of cozy activities to help you stay warm and entertained during the chilly winter months. From theater shows to culinary delights, there’s no shortage of options to escape the cold.

Catch a Show:

Send your regards to Broadway when you catch a show this season! New York is known for its arts scene, especially when it comes to live performances. The lights, the music, the set designs, and the stories- the theatre is an enchanting way to spend a winter evening.

On Broadway: Broadway shows are a staple of the New York City experience, offering world-renowned performances from classic musicals to new productions.

Off-Broadway: For a more intimate setting, Off-Broadway shows feature unique performances that showcase diverse talent in smaller venues.

Enjoy a Delicious Dinner

Staying warm while you explore city streets takes a lot of energy. Nothing will fill you up to fight the winter chill better than a hearty meal. Here are a few places to eat in New York this winter:



• Freemans: At the end of an alley, Freemans serves hearty American comfort food. The cozy, rustic setting and delicious food make it a perfect winter dining destination.
•  CHILI: Warm up your body and your tastebuds with some delicious, spicy Sichuan food. Cooked by Michelin-star chefs, this delicious restaurant offers comforting meals for chilly days.
• White Oak Tavern: If you are looking for the warmth of a traditional tavern, you’ll love White Oak. Inspired by the tall oaks and casks that flavor Kentucky’s famous whiskey-  this tavern offers traditional meals for the discerning urban palate.
  

Warm Drinks:

There’s no better way to start your morning than with a steaming cup of caffeine. There’s also no better way to end a day than with a cup of warm cocoa. When you think of it, there’s no bad time to enjoy a warm beverage in winter, so here are a few places to enjoy a cup: 



• Blue Stripes Cacao shop: Stop by Blue Stripes for a decadent hot chocolate or other cacao-based treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Porto Rico Importing Company: This historic coffee shop offers a wide selection of coffee blends to enjoy in a cozy setting.
• Third Rail Coffee: Known for its rich coffee and warm atmosphere, Third Rail is an ideal spot to unwind with a warm drink.

About the Author

Bozhidar Bachvarov (aka “Boz”) is the manager of Incentra Village Guest House in historic West Village. As a city local and a frequent traveler, Boz knows how to give guests an authentic New York experience.