Around 60 million people visit New York City year-round. Approximately 7.5 million people visit New York City during the holiday season, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. 

Christmas in New York City is different from any other day because of traditions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes special, and ice skating rinks. 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller tree goes up in early November and has a grand lighting ceremony, which tens of thousands of people attend to watch. 

The 80-foot-tall, 15-ton tree illuminates the streets of New York City with around 50,000 multi-colored lights. 

The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree became famous during the Great Depression, as it served as a beacon of hope and brought joy to those going through hard times. 

Since the Great Depression, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has kept that cheerful aspect that has drawn tourists from all over the world. 

Radio City Music Hall Rockettes Special

Since 1933, Radio City Music Hall has performed the Christmas Spectacular with dancing, singing, humor, and a light-hearted, exciting storyline. 

About 30 of the 80 Rockettes perform in a single show and have 8 different costume changes, some having to be as fast as one minute. 

From mid-November through January, there are more than 180 performances put on by Radio City Music Hall. In the 2018-19 season alone, 27.9 million tickets were sold just for the Radio City Music Hall shows.

Other New York experiences

Ice skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a fun thing for anyone. The chilly breeze while gliding through the rink under the Rockefeller Tree is a thrilling experience. 

Even if you’re not into shopping, strolling along Fifth Avenue to see all the different holiday window scenes is a truly magical experience. 

Even if you’re just walking through the streets of New York City, the Christmas magic will be everywhere. From carolers, Santa Claus, and Christmas lights, there is always something you will see. 

The Christmas magic from New York City is one of the best times to visit the Big Apple — start planning your trip now!