Christmas Events In New York 2024
Unwrap the Magic: A Guide to the Top Christmas Events in New York and New Jersey for 2023
The holiday season is upon us, and there's no better place to experience the festive magic than in the heart of the Big Apple and the charming venues of New Jersey. From iconic performances to heartwarming classics, the events lined up for the Christmas season are sure to make this time of year truly special. Join us as we explore the top Christmas events in New York and New Jersey, listed in chronological order from earliest to latest.
New York City transforms into a magical wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a blend of enchanting traditions and iconic landmarks that define the holiday spirit. The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree marks the official start of festivities, while the dazzling window displays along Fifth Avenue's renowned department stores, including Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue, create a captivating winter scene. Ice skating at Rockefeller Center and Central Park's ice rink provides a quintessential New York experience amidst the backdrop of skyscrapers and festive lights. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, featuring the world-famous Rockettes, dazzles audiences with high-energy performances, including the iconic "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers."
Throughout the city, Bryant Park and Union Square holiday markets offer a delightful array of artisanal goods and treats. The New York City Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker" at Lincoln Center is a cherished tradition, captivating audiences of all ages. Bryant Park's Winter Village, complete with an ice rink and cozy igloos, adds to the festive charm. A holiday lights tour allows visitors to explore illuminated landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Dyker Heights in Brooklyn showcases spectacular Christmas light displays, and Grand Central Terminal dazzles with its festive decor and celestial dome.
The New York Philharmonic's holiday concerts at venues such as David Geffen Hall fill the air with the sounds of the season. Madison Square Garden hosts special holiday concerts featuring top artists, while Broadway theaters in the Theater District present festive adaptations and musicals. St. Patrick's Cathedral offers a serene escape with holiday services and breathtaking decorations. Holiday cruises around Manhattan provide a unique perspective of the city's skyline adorned with lights, complemented by festive music and seasonal treats. The Winter Jazzfest adds a vibrant touch to the city's musical scene. With these traditions and cultural events, New York City truly becomes a captivating and unforgettable destination during the Christmas season.
Here's our curated list of the top events happening in Atlanta during the Christmas holiday season of 2023:
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Experience the enchanting tale of Jack Skellington in this live rendition of Tim Burton's animated classic.
- St. George Theatre:
- November 24, 2023
Join Charlie Brown and friends in a heartwarming holiday celebration filled with the spirit of Christmas.
- Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre
- November 24, 2023
Immerse yourself in the timeless magic of Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker," presented by the renowned New York City Ballet.
- David H Koch Theater
- November 24 - December 31, 2023
Company of Dance Arts - The Nutcracker
A captivating performance of "The Nutcracker" by the talented Company of Dance Arts, bringing this classic to life.
- Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre
- December 8 - 10, 2023
Metropolitan Opera: Tannhauser
The Metropolitan Opera presents Wagner's epic opera "Tannhauser" in a mesmerizing production.
- Metropolitan Opera House
- November 30 - December 23, 2023
Celtic Woman - Christmas Symphony
Celtic Woman delivers a mesmerizing performance, fusing the magic of the season with their enchanting symphonic sounds.
- Bergen Performing Arts Center
- November 28, 2023
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Join Rudolph and friends in a delightful stage adaptation of the beloved holiday classic.
- Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre
- November 28, 2023
Emmy-winning artist Darren Criss takes the stage for a night of musical brilliance and holiday cheer.
- Town Hall Theater
- December 5, 2023
- Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre
- December 4, 2023
A Christmas Carol - The Musical
Dickens' classic tale comes to life in this musical adaptation, delivering a heartwarming message of redemption and goodwill.
- Players Theater
- November 26 - December 30, 2023
Martina McBride brings her soulful voice to the holiday stage, delivering a Christmas concert to remember.
- Bergen Performing Arts Center
- December 17, 2023
New York Pops - The Best Christmas of All with Norm Lewis
- Isaac Stern Auditorium
- December 22 - 23, 2023
State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine - The Nutcracker
The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine enchants audiences with their exquisite rendition of "The Nutcracker."
- Prudential Hall
- December 17, 2023
Metropolitan Opera - The Magic Flute
Mozart's timeless opera, "The Magic Flute," graces the stage in a production by the world-renowned Metropolitan Opera.
- Metropolitan Opera House
- December 8 - 30, 2023
New York Philharmonic - Handel's Messiah
The New York Philharmonic presents Handel's masterpiece, "Messiah," in a stirring holiday performance.
- David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center
- December 12 - 16, 2023
Celebrate the season with the joyous sounds of an Irish Christmas, featuring lively tunes and festive traditions.
- Isaac Stern Auditorium
- December 9, 2023
Indulge in the nostalgia of doo-wop classics, spreading holiday cheer with timeless tunes.
- Bergen Performing Arts Center
- December 9, 2023
Let "The Wizards Of Winter" take you on a musical journey with their enchanting holiday melodies.
- Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center
- December 9, 2023
Country crooner Brett Eldredge serenades the audience with a mix of holiday favorites and chart-topping hits.
- Beacon Theater
- December 8 - 9, 2023
Join the star-studded lineup for a night of pop extravaganza at the iconic Madison Square Garden. This year, the slate includes Olivia Rodrigo, SZA, OneRepublic, Sabrina Carpenter, Jelly Roll, Big Time Rush, Doechii, Pentatonix, Melanie Martinez and David Kushner.
- Madison Square Garden
- December 8, 2023
Filmmaker John Waters brings his unique brand of holiday hilarity to the stage in this irreverent Christmas show.
- New York City Winery
- December 17 - 19, 2023
Experience the marriage of circus arts and holiday music in this spectacular production by Cirque Musica.
- Bergen Performing Arts Center
- December 13, 2023
New York Theatre Ballet - The Nutcracker - Family Edition
Delight in the enchanting ballet performance of "The Nutcracker" by the talented New York Theatre Ballet.This version is a special one-hour family performance.
- Tarrytown Music Hall
- December 10, 2023
Embark on a magical journey as this holiday spectacle unfolds the night before Christmas.
- The Theater At Madison Square Garden
- December 7 - 28, 2023
New York Philharmonic - Holiday Brass
Revel in the festive sounds of the season with the New York Philharmonic's brass-filled holiday performance.
- David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center
- December 16 - 17, 2023
A modern twist on a holiday classic, "The Hip Hop Nutcracker" brings together Tchaikovsky's music and contemporary dance.
- Prudential Hall
- December 23, 2023
Indulge in the nostalgia of doo-wop classics, spreading holiday cheer with timeless tunes.
- NYCB Theatre at Westbury
- December 16, 2023
The iconic Mariah Carey delivers a magical performance, featuring her chart-topping hits and festive classics.
- Madison Square Garden
- December 9, December 17, 2023
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the holiday season with the world-famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
Be sure to read more about the history and legacy of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and the Rockettes here.
- Radio City Music Hall
- November 17, 2023 - January 1, 2024
American Repertory Ballet - The Nutcracker
The American Repertory Ballet brings the enchanting story of "The Nutcracker" to life with grace and precision.
- Mccarter Theatre Center
- November 24 - 26, 2023
Celebrate the Nativity with a soul-stirring performance of Langston Hughes' "Black Nativity."
- Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre
- December 30, 2023
Witness a holiday spectacle that blends jaw-dropping acrobatics, dazzling costumes, and seasonal cheer.
- Prudential Hall
- December 26, 2023
Join Darren Criss for an evening of musical enchantment as he serenades the audience with his captivating performance.
- Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre
- December 4, 2023
New Jersey Symphony Orchestra - A Gospel Holiday
Feel the spirit of the season with the uplifting sounds of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra's Gospel Holiday performance.
- Victoria Theater
- December 9, 2023
Let "The Wizards Of Winter" transport you to a magical realm with their spellbinding holiday melodies.
- Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center
- December 9, 2023
Charles Dickens' timeless tale of redemption comes to life in this heartwarming production of "A Christmas Carol."
- Mccarter Theatre Center
- December 6 - 24, 2023
Chevy Chase: Screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Iconic comedian Chevy Chase stops into Prudential Hall to present a very special holiday screening of his iconic holiday flick, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. The comedian, actor, and writer started acting in the National Lampoon films during the 1980s at the same time as being the host of the popular evening talk show Saturday Night Live from 1978 to 1997.
After watching the classic 1989 festive hit audiences will also be treated to an exclusive Q&A with the legendary funnyman. Expect to hear hilarious anecdotes from throughout his Emmy award-winning career!
- Prudential Hall
- December 15, 2023
