Silver bells, silver bells, it’s christmastime in the city. And christmastime it is. With the end of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, and with Santa Claus coming out on his sleigh, it is officially Christmas in the big apple.

Growing up in New York City, I’ve had my fair share of magical New York holiday moments, so I’m here to help you have the ultimate holiday holiday.

Here are my top picks for what do do in the city to experience that holiday magic.

Rockefeller Center

A trip to New York during the holiday’s wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Rockefeller Center to see the big tree. Around 80 ft tall, and covered in lights, the tree is a sight to see. That combined with the toy soldiers all around the rink, and the angels with their trumpets, it’s just such a beautiful sight, and the perfect photo op.

Bryant Park

During the holiday season, Bryant Park turns into a magical Winter Village, full of hot cocoa, holiday lights, a Christmas market, and an ice skating rink. I would suggest skipping skating at Rockefeller, and instead, taking advantage of the free admission, and $20 skate rental at Bryant Park.

Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular

The Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes is a 90 minute show full of singing, glitter, dancing, multiple costume changes, and of course, sky high kicks. A beautiful spectacle combining the magic of new york with the magic of the holidays, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

Department Store Windows

One of the most special parts of Christmas in New York is seeing how the stores and the city decorates. From the holiday lights all up and down 5th avenue, to the projection show on the side of the Saks 5th Avenue building, the displays are otherworldly. Here are the essential stores to hit:

• Saks 5th Avenue

• Bergdorf Goodman

• Bloomingdales

• Macys

• Cartier

• Tiffany’s

The New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker

From the sweeping strings of Tchaikovsky’s music to the spectacular sets, to the pretty primas en pointe, The Nutcracker is a holiday classic. Immerse yourself in the land of sweets and go see the New York City Ballet.

Roasted Chestnuts

Perhaps the most underrated and least expensive activity on this list is eating roasted chestnuts from a street cart. Street food is a pillar of the true New York experience, but is understandably not for everyone. That’s where roasted chestnuts come in. When you need a snack in between seeing all the holiday windows, buying some roasted chestnuts is perfect. With a hotdog cart on every block, you’ll be sure to find one that sells roasted chestnuts in no time.

EXPLORE VANITY STORIES