Christmas in New York City: 26 Christmas Pop-ups, Social Events and Photo Opts
- JAHLEAH SANTIAGO
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Winter is coming and whether you want cute pics, festive cocktails or to enjoy some carols we've got the scoop on fun things to do this Christmas in New York City or all season long. Here's our itinerary that'll make sure you get the most out of festivities and holiday cheer.
Christmas Carols at Bryant Park Christmas Tree Lighting
The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park will host its annual Christmas tree lighting on Tuesday, December 2, beginning at 4 p.m., with festive carols, dazzling ice-skating performances, and fireworks to close the evening.
Dueling Pianos and More at Seaport’s Holiday Tree Lighting
For a Christmas celebration with a nautical twist, head to the Seaport on December 2 at 6 p.m. for live music from Dueling Pianos, Brooklyn Drumline, and The Doo Wop Project, plus local artisan shopping before the tree lighting at 7 p.m.
Sip, Celebrate & Deck the Halls at Elsie Rooftop's Holiday Market - 12/11, 12/14 & 12/21
Elsie Rooftop (1412 Broadway, 25th Floor) is transforming into a festive wonderland on three Sundays - December 7th, 14th, and 21st from 3pm - 6pm so guests can enjoy interactive holiday stations including stocking and ornament decorating, gingerbread decorating, and a three-hour open bar featuring a Build-Your-Own Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar. Soak in seasonal music, sip on festive drinks, and mingle with friends and fellow holiday enthusiasts in the heart of the city for a spirited, 21+ celebration of the season. Secure your tickets by visiting: https://tickets.elsierooftop.com/e/holiday-market-elsie-rooftop
A Christmas Carol
The Tony Award–winning adaptation of A Christmas Carol, conceived and directed by Matthew Warchus and adapted by Jack Thorne, returns to New York City for a limited holiday run at the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) from November 23 to December 28, bringing its acclaimed blend of heart, spectacle, and redemption off Broadway for the season.
Frosty's Christmas Bar
Frosty’s Bar is an over-the-top, 21+ Christmas experience in the heart of New York, featuring sensational seasonal cocktails, immersive photo moments, festive lights, lively music, and a late-night holiday party atmosphere that truly knocks your Christmas stockings off. Find more information by visiting, https://frostyschristmas.bar/new-york/
Greg’s Trees
A New York tradition for over 35 years, Greg’s Trees transforms parks across the city into enchanting winter wonderlands filled with fragrant evergreens, wreaths, and hand-painted holiday cutouts. Find locations and details at https://gregstrees.com.
Grand Holiday Bazaar
Celebrate the season at the city’s longest-running indoor and outdoor market, where over 150 vendors offer artisanal gifts, vintage treasures, and festive treats every Sunday from November 30 to December 21. Discover more at https://www.grandbazaarnyc.org.
The Holiday Bazaar at Grand Central’s Biltmore Room
From December 16–18, explore Grand Central’s landmark Biltmore Room for a curated holiday market featuring local artisans, gourmet treats, and handmade gifts. Learn more at https://www.grandbazaarnyc.org.
Foxtail’s Holiday Hideaway
Inside Arlo SoHo, Foxtail transforms into a festive cocktail den with cozy décor and seasonal drinks like Spiked Mexican Hot Cocoa and the Christmas Fruitcake. Reserve at https://www.foxtailholiday.com.
Lindens Winter Village
Beginning December 1, Arlo SoHo’s Lindens unveils private yurts for intimate dining, festive gatherings, and winter cocktails in a luxurious, heated setting. Book at https://www.lindensnyc.com.
Haven Ski Chalet
Above Times Square, Haven Rooftop becomes a snowy escape with twinkling lights, evergreen garlands, and a cozy ski lodge ambiance perfect for holiday brunches and celebrations. Learn more at https://www.havenrooftop.com.
Calissa Chalet
From November 15 through February 2026, Calissa brings après-ski charm to the Hamptons with fondue, toddies, and lavish seasonal menus designed for sharing. Visit https://www.calissahamptons.com.
Bessou Snack Shop at Bryant Park
Through January 4, 2026, Bessou and Kayanoya reimagine New York’s bodega culture with Japanese-inspired Yaki Onigiri, miso soup, and gourmet popcorn at Bryant Park’s Holiday Shops. Find them at Booth N57 or visit https://www.bessounyc.com.
Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar
The Queen of Christmas returns with a dazzling pop-up bar at UNTITLED (3 Freeman Alley), where festive cocktails and nostalgic décor celebrate the magic of Mariah. Explore more at https://bucketlisters.com.
Bar Après Ski Holiday Pop-Up
At Olly Olly Market, Bar Après Ski channels alpine chic with cozy fur accents, winter cocktails, and a warm après-work atmosphere. Details at https://www.ollyollymarket.com.
Noche Buena Christmas Bar
Celebrate Latin holiday traditions at Noche Buena in Long Island City, a vibrant pop-up filled with piñatas, papel picado, and Christmas trees inspired by cultures across Latin America. Learn more at http://unanochebuena.com.
Papillon Bistro & Bar
This Midtown French bistro decks its two stories in dazzling holiday décor, serving festive ambiance with every meal. Visit https://www.papillonbistro.com.
Rolf’s
Famed for its extravagant holiday decorations and old-world German charm, Rolf’s remains one of New York’s most magical seasonal dining destinations. Discover more at https://www.rolfsnyc.com.
Miracle on Ninth Street
A beloved East Village tradition, Miracle on Ninth Street serves inventive holiday cocktails in a whimsical winter pop-up setting. Follow updates at https://www.miraclepopup.com.
Sleyenda
In December, Leyenda in Carroll Gardens transforms into Sleyenda, serving holiday cocktails and spiced hot chocolate in festive glassware. Visit https://www.leyendabk.com.
Pete’s Tavern
This Gramercy Park institution sparkles with classic holiday décor and cozy charm, perfect for a nostalgic winter night. See more at https://www.petestavern.com.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Known for its heated igloos and skyline views, 230 Fifth transforms into a glowing rooftop winter wonderland. Explore https://www.230-fifth.com.
Loreley Beer Garden
Lower East Side’s Loreley brings back its Winter Wonderland with over-the-top décor, festive drinks, and hearty seasonal fare through early January. Reserve at https://www.loreleynyc.com.
The Mean Fiddler
In Times Square, The Mean Fiddler transforms into a lively holiday destination with themed cocktails and festive décor. Learn more at https://www.themeanfiddlernyc.com.
Li-Lac Chocolates at Macy’s Holiday Market
Visit Macy’s Herald Square to discover Li-Lac’s handmade New York chocolates, crafted locally for the perfect holiday gift. Browse at https://www.li-lacchocolates.com.
Enjoy The Gazillion Bubble Show: A Holiday Spectacular at New World Stages
Gazillion Bubble Show: A Holiday Spectacular brings the beloved family hit into the festive season with its first-ever holiday edition, running November 26, 2025–January 4, 2026 at New World Stages. The Times Square theater transforms into a sparkling Holiday Wonderland filled with snow, bubbles, lights, and festive music, creating an immersive winter playground for all ages. Guests can enjoy swirling bubble “snowstorms,” interactive holiday moments, Santa “Snow Globe” bubble photos, and special holiday bubble toys. The 65-minute show is perfect for families—especially those with young children—and includes a sensory-friendly performance on December 20.