It’s Christmas time in the city! The holidays are always the best time in New York City. ‘Tis the season of lights and decorations, making the city shine and sparkle more than usual. The festivities and all of the holiday excitement add a special magic to the air. The holidays also mean that there are so many holiday-specific events and things to do and see. Below are my top picks for all the holiday best NYC has to offer.
SHOWS
COMPANY XIV: NUTCRACKER ROUGE
383 Troutman St., Brooklyn, NY 11237
Now – January 26, 2020 | $115+ | Age 21+
Nutcracker Rouge is an imaginative retelling of the classic Nutcracker, combining burlesque, acrobatics, aerial arts, theatre, dancing, and singing all into one incredible show. There are not enough adjectives to describe Nutcracker Rouge. It is captivating, exciting, glamorous, entertaining, risqué, sexy, funny, and overall amazing. You are greeted as you enter and you take in the opulence and the amazing aroma of the venue, evoking sexiness. The bar offers unique holiday themed cocktails, as well as wines, beers, ciders, and absinthe. I highly recommend the VIP couch with champagne or absinthe. It offers a great stage view and with some bubbly added in, you have the key ingredients for a sexy and cozy date night. The show itself has some of the most gorgeous and talented people I’ve ever seen perform. The entire production is Broadway level. The extensive choreography, the acrobatics and aerial work, the elaborate costumes, the storytelling, the production value, the singing, the dancing – all of it is executed so perfectly and you are truly mesmerized the entire time. I really cannot say enough good things about this show. It is such a unique experience and a definite must-see this holiday season!
CHRISTMAS CAROL COCKTAILS – THE IMBIBLE
The Producers Club Theaters, 358 W. 44th St., 2nd Floor, Royal Theater, NY, NY 10036
Now – December 28 | $89+ (incl. 3 holiday drinks) | Age 21+
“Scrooge learns about cocktails past, present, and future! This is New York’s holiday show for grownups, and it instantly became a tradition with our audiences! It’s the morning after Scrooge’s spectral visits, and our hero is determined to celebrate Christmas by throwing a party “just like old Fezziwig!” However, he realizes he has no idea how to go about the thing, and the libations prove particularly puzzling. Summoning Marley back for some additional help, they depart on another trip through time and space, this time with a cappella accompaniment of your favorite holiday carols, to mix cocktails past, present, and future under the expert tutelage of three Christmas Spirits.” – The Imbible
THE ILLUSIONISTS: MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS
Neil Simon Theatre, 250 W. 52nd St., NY, NY 10019
Now – January 5, 2020 | $39+
“The mind-blowing spectacular of The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays showcases the jaw dropping talents of the most incredible Illusionists on earth, alongside special guests Light Balance. The Illusionists has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.” – The Illusionists
BIG BAND HOLIDAYS
Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall, Broadway at 60th Street, 5th fl., NY, NY 10019
December 18 – 22 | $150+
“The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis continues a beloved New York tradition that plays to sold-out audiences every December. Featuring guest vocalists Alexis Morrast and Denzal Sinclaire and soulful, big band versions of classics like “Jingle Bells” and “Joy to the World,” Big Band Holidays is an uplifting holiday program sure to get you into the spirit of the season.” – Jazz at Lincoln Center
NEW YORK CITY BALLET: GEORGE BALANCHINE’S THE NUTCRACKER®
Now – January 5, 2020 | $60+
David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, NY, NY 10023
“As the clock chimes midnight, a brave young girl turns the tide in a battle between toy soldiers and mischievous mice, and a blizzard of ballerinas reveals a wonderful world of confection. George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is one of the most complex theatrical, staged ballets in the Company’s active repertory. The popularity of the ballet is immense and it provides an unforgettable spark to everyone’s holiday season.” – The New York City Ballet
Learn more and buy tickets here
A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT THE MERCHANT’S HOUSE
Merchant’s House Museum, 29 East Fourth Street, New York, NY 10003
Now – January 5, 2020 | $40+
“Join Mr. Dickens, portrayed by John Kevin Jones, as he tells his timeless Christmas tale in the elegant intact Greek Revival double parlor of the landmark 1832 Merchant’s House Museum. Surrounded by 19th century holiday decorations, flickering candles, and richly appointed period furnishings, audiences will be transported back 150 years in this captivating one-hour performance created from Dickens’ own script.” – MHM Christmas Carol
CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR STARRING THE RADIO CITY ROCKETTES
Now – January 5, 2020 | $49+
Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas, NY, NY 10020
Radio City at Christmas time is so beautiful and the Christmas show is a quintessential part of the NYC holiday spirit. “Share the joy of the holidays with your loved ones this year at the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes® presented by Chase. Experience Radio City Music Hall® as it transforms into an immersive, winter wonderland, and create lasting memories with the legendary Rockettes®” – Christmas Spectacular
EXPERIENCES/THINGS TO DO & SEE
SAKS FIFTH AVENUE HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW
611 Fifth Avenue, NY, NY, 10022
The outdoor Saks Fifth Avenue holiday light show and window displays are my favorite in the city. The façade of the building is transformed with beautiful and bright lights, timed to holiday music. It is a definite must see during the holidays!
COCOA AND CAROLS HOLIDAY CRUISE
Now – December 29 | $72
Chelsea Piers, Pier 62 (W. 22nd St.) NY, NY 10011
“Please join us for this special warm and cozy cruise tailored for friends, family, and all your loved ones during the Holiday Season. Step inside this toasty solarium in full holiday decor for a 1.5 hour cruise to see the New York City lights. Delicious hot cocoa, cookies, and treats for all our guests are included! Join in on caroling or sit back and enjoy the show & the sites (Musically-talented groups are our special hosts for each of these cruises!) Sit back and enjoy the gorgeous view of the island from the heated back-deck salon of these 1920s style yachts.” – Classic Harbor Line
GRAND CENTRAL HOLIDAY FAIR
Now – December 24 | Monday-Friday: 10am-8pm, Saturday: 10am-7pm, Sunday: 11am-6pm
Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal, 89 East 42nd Street, NY, NY 10017
“For a magical, one-stop holiday-shopping experience, nothing compares to the Holiday Fair at Grand Central. The experience itself is a holiday gift. Explore one of the most beautiful architectural settings in the world featuring 40 talented artisans. The Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair is one of the finest, longest-running indoor holiday fairs in New York City. The Holiday Fair Committee spends the year looking for unique vendors with a focus on American-made and handmade products with locally sourced materials or a socially conscious business model. 40 vendors will take over half of the historic Vanderbilt Hall for almost six weeks to sell artwork, clothing for all ages, men’s and women’s accessories, children’s clothing and toys, and home goods. A range of products and price points guarantees that New Yorkers, commuters, and tourists alike can find interesting gift items for others as well as covet-worthy items for themselves. Since 1993, the Holiday Fair has been a must-shop destination during the holiday season.” – Grand Central Holiday Fair
BANK OF AMERICA WINTER VILLAGE AT BRYANT PARK
Now – January 5, 2020
Bryant Park, between 40th and 42nd Streets & 5th and 6th Avenues, NY, NY 10018
“Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is Manhattan’s winter wonderland. The Winter Village holiday market features food and artisanal boutiques offering delicious eats and exquisite gifts. Our European inspired open-air market hosts artisans from New York City and around the world. Located along Bryant Park’s allées, plazas, and terraces, the Holiday Shops are housed in custom-designed kiosks. Winter Village’s rinkside bar and food hall, The Lodge by Urbanspace, is a cozy winter destination with a dozen new and classic NYC restaurants. The Lodge features a festive cocktail bar surrounded by a full range of eateries, bar, an outdoor beer garden, and many other exciting dining options. The centerpiece of Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, this 17,000 square foot rink features free admission ice skating, high quality rental skates, and free skating shows, events, and activities.” – Bryant Park
UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET
Now – December 24
Union Square Park, East 14th St., NY, NY 10011
“The Union Square Holiday Market is an internationally renowned Holiday Market located at the heart of New York City, in Union Square Park. Hailed as a must-visit destination for unique gifts created by local craftsmen and artists, millions of people browse the winding aisles each year enjoying this unique and eclectic holiday experience
Now with an upgraded look, exciting new sections like Little Brooklyn and Urbanspace Provisions, a Warming Station and Lounge Presented by Citi, a Kid’s Arts Studio by our partners at CMA and Citi, live music, and the best vendor selection in the Northeast, Union Square Holiday Market is the holiday destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike.” – Union Square Market
PARTIES
HOLIDAYBREAKER
December 20 | 6-9am | $25+
Judson Memorial Church, 55 Washington Square S, New York, NY 10012
“Ahhh, it’s the most wonderful time of the year – the twinkle of holiday lights, the smell of gingerbread, the hot chocolate breaks, the jingle of jolly sleigh bells, and our last dance of 2019 (yes, oh yes, a new decade is near). Fam, in honor of the season that always warms our hearts, we’re bringing merry everything to Judson Memorial Church on Friday, December 20th. Cozy up inside your best Christmas sweaters, glitter up your vibe, then join us as we rekindle our spirits with a festive yoga flow. With our fave sunrise conductor on the decks, we’ll sleigh the dance floor and shake it like a snow globe. Tix will fly in a flurry (fir sure)—so grabs yours quick and gear up to call in the New Year with love, love, love. See you on the dancefloor.” – Daybreaker
THE GRAND VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS
December 20 | 8pm-1am | $25+ | Age 21+
Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 E. 61st St., NY, NY 10065
“Join us as we travel back in time to the turn of the century to an elegant country resort a short carriage ride away from the hustle and bustle of the city…which at that time extended only as far north as 14th Street. We will begin the night with guided tours through the garden and beautifully preserved mansion. At 9pm, we open the doors to a secret candlelit ballroom and invite you to an immersive and historically accurate Victorian Christmas celebration, complete with a fully trimmed tree, hundreds of candles, and a glorious vintage Santa.”
Note: There is a dress code – 1800s through 1919 winter, salon, ballroom, formal or military, or as close as you can get with modern formal. Tartans, velvets and furs. Men: tuxes or tails. Ladies: corsets and long gowns.
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