Christmas in New York 2021

Christmas in New York is enchanting. Americans love to decorate their homes, and shops extravagantly adorn their windows with festive decorations. The city is always beautifully illuminated but at Christmas, it’s like a fairy tale.

Christmas Day is celebrated on the same day as in Australia and Christmas Eve is the night before. It is good to know that Americans do not celebrate Boxing Day, this is something typically Australian.

Contents

1 What can you expect during Christmas?
- 1.1 Christmas Eve in New York
- 1.2 Christmas Day in New York

What can you expect during Christmas?

At Christmas, families come together to eat, drink and give each other gifts. Opening presents on Christmas Day is definitely the main event for American households. If you want to eat out, make reservations ahead of time: All restaurants are fully booked weeks, even months in advance. I recommend Milos Wine Bar, Peter Luger Steakhouse, Marseille or Bryant, Park Grill. If you’re visiting New York with a larger group, Italian family restaurant Carmine’s is a nice place to go. Most shops, even big department stores, are closed on Christmas Day, so bear this in mind.

Christmas Eve in New York

On Christmas Day, many restaurants are fully booked as New Yorkers go out to have dinner. However, this is not the case for Christmas Eve. Are you in New York over Christmas? Then focus on Christmas Eve. Of course, it’s always worth trying to book a restaurant for Christmas day. However, if you don’t get a table, go for dinner on Christmas Eve instead.

Eric’s Tip: To be sure of a good dining experience, you can also book a Luxury Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise. During the dinner cruise, you have a beautiful view of New York City and you can enjoy the food onboard. Another great option for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day is an evening of ice skating at Rockefeller Center, including a visit to the Top of the Rock observation deck!

Christmas Day in New York

On Christmas Day in New York, it’s nice to just take a walk around town. Take a stroll through the city itself, or head to Central Park. During your walk, you can always take time to go ice skating, which is a great experience!

If you want to enjoy a nice dinner on this festive day and, at the same time, admire the beautiful skyline of Manhattan, I recommend the Christmas Day Brunch Cruise. In addition, there’s an option to book premium tickets for this cruise, which then gives you access to the outdoor top deck.

Note: The Statue of Liberty is closed on Christmas Day.

Read about experiencing the Christmas spirit in New York here

Will it snow in New York during Christmas?

In general, it is not very cold in New York in December. The chances are therefore small that it will snow during the holidays. But the Christmas spirit in New York is no less!

Can I go out for dinner with Christmas in New York?

Dining in one of the New York restaurants is a fun way to spend your Christmas. There are several recommended restaurants for Christmas in New York. Just make sure to book well in advance. On Christmas Eve, a dinner cruise is great for a cosy Christmas dinner.

Are the shops open with Christmas in New York?

Many shops, even large department stores, are closed on Christmas Day. This also applies to many attractions. Fun activities for Christmas include ice skating or taking a (dinner) cruise.

Posted in Holidays in New York

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