Planning a trip to the always-extraordinary New York City over the holidays does not have to be overwhelming. About all you need at the beginning are ideas on what you and your travel companions would like to do and see while you are there.
Some of the more common draws in December include live entertainment, stunning holiday light displays, unique shopping opportunities, and an inimitable New Year’s Eve event. Here are just a few possible options to get you started. Then count on NYC to over-deliver on whatever you choose.
Live Entertainment
You are certain to find a musical event to entertain everyone in your group.
A few options for concerts on various December dates include Dinosaur Jr., Michael Bolton, The Lemonheads, Los Lobos, Suzanne Vega, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and many more.
Broadway musicals, some of which are open all through December, include Hamilton, The Lion King, Moulin Rouge, Chicago, Funny Girl, and Wicked.
The timeless Tchaikovsky’s Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker, will run at the David H. Koch Theatre at Lincoln Center from November 25-December 31.
Neil Diamond fans will not want to miss “A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical,” which highlights the beloved singer’s iconic life through his many hit songs.
Guaranteed fun for every age is the Peanuts holiday special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage,” premiering December 21-24 at The Palladium-Times Square. Charles M. Schulz’s Emmy and Peabody award-winning story will end with the audience joining the Peanuts gang in singing all your favorite holiday carols.
Holiday Light Displays
It is hard to imagine not including the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting in your plans. Located in the middle of the Rockefeller Center complex, the 2022 lighting will take place on November 30, probably around 9 p.m. Live performances are still being scheduled, but, past year have included stars Mariah Carey, Garth Brooks, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, and more, they will be well worth braving the cold and crowds.
Other lovely locations for lighting ceremonies include the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center in Central Park, the Winter Village in Bryant Park, and the West Harlem Piers.
Generally, you can look forward to live music, caroling, toasty warm beverages, and possibly a visit from Santa for the kiddos.
Holiday Market Shopping
Find great outdoor vendors at Union Square Park, The Holiday Shops at the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. All three of these holiday fair favorites offer booths filled with holiday craft items, winter sweaters and clothing, festive jewelry, unique household gifts, and more.
An excellent indoor shopping experience can be found at Grand Central Terminal, opening this year on November 14 and closing on December 24.
Lastly, leave time for some breathtaking window shopping on Fifth Avenue. Storefronts at Saks, Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, and dozens more will offer their own unique, beautifully decorated spin on the holidays.
The Grand Finale: New Year’s Eve in Times Square
Who has not watched the ball drop in Times Square remotely on New Year’s Eve and wondered what it would be like to do so in person?
If your plans include staying through December 31, this is just an extraordinary, free, first-come, first-serve, can’t-miss experience. Once again, the 12,000-pound Waterford Crystal ball will be raised to the top of the pole at 6 p.m., overseeing the approximately 58,000 partygoers gathered below. Then the celebration goes into full swing, offering talent that will keep you mesmerized, entertained, and perhaps even less aware of the cold temps. More information will be available soon from timessquarenyc.org.
Need More Ideas, To make your Winter Trip to NYC the Crown Jewel of 2022?
You may also want to leave some time open for unplanned activities during your NYD adventure. A spontaneous stop at a bar or restaurant with live entertainment might be a great addition to your agenda. Silver Star Transportation has been making dreams come true for travelers for more than three decades. Do not hesitate to contact us for even more ideas!
