Winter time in New York is a wonderful thing, whether it is doing your Christmas shopping at world famous stores like Macy’s, ice staking outside the Rockefeller Centre or enjoy a sleigh ride through Central Park. It is no wonder that during this festive period, the city of New York puts on a series of events that are extremely popular with locals and visiting tourists.

Madison Avenue

Madison Avenue

One of the biggest events in New York’s festive calendar is the lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. It is the largest Christmas tree in the city, and each year attracts hundreds of viewers. The tree is traditionally lit up just after Thanksgiving, and symbolises that Christmas has officially come to the Big Apple.

Another popular attraction is the Radio City Christmas Spectacular which goes on throughout the whole of December. Featuring performances by the Rockettes, the show is popular with families of all ages. If you are looking for a bit more culture however, then the New York City Ballet will once again be putting on their annual performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Performances go on throughout December with the last show being held on the 2nd January.

The Lincoln Centre also puts on a number of festive events including a large Messiah Sing In, nativity plays and other festive performances. Other carolling services are held in the West Village , with the West Village Messiah Sing being held at St. Luke’s Church.

Whatever you decide to do, there are plenty of sights and sounds in New York that can cater for everyone’s tastes and festive desires.