NYC Insider Guide December Events and Activities Calendar
The New York City Events December Calendar 2017 is filled with magic, dozens of holiday trees, sparkling lights everywhere, store window displays, holiday lights tours, ice skating, shopping, (hopefully) white snow, the smell of roasted chestnuts (which, by the way, smell far better than they taste).
There is nothing on the planet like New York City during the winter holidays. The City is breathtaking at this time of year. It’s also very cold and more crowded than usual, but that is the price we pay to experience amazing New York City during the holidays.
Please check sightseeing and holiday hours for Christmas Eve and Day (December 24th and 25th) and New Year’s Eve (December 31st).
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Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular 2018
Nov 9, 2018 – Jan 1, 2019
Daily @ 11am, 2pm, 5pm, 8pm (some variations)
- Tickets: Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Tickets
- Insider Guide: Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall Guide
With up to 4 shows per day on weekends, the Rockettes are a tradition during the NYC Holiday Season for more than 75 years. Don’t miss the signature eye-high kicks, precision choreography and exciting, show-stopping numbers – including one with Santa.
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Hotels Near Rockefeller Center
Some of our top value picks near Rockefeller Center include:
See the Insider Guide for dozens more Hotels Near Rockefeller Center.
Rockefeller Center runs from 47th - 50th Streets, between 5th and 6th Aves. Download our free neighborhood maps at Midtown East Hotels and Midtown West Hotels
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New York City Holiday Lights Tours
New York City during Holiday season is a don’t miss! Get in the festive spirit by taking a Holiday Lights Tour. Choose from Bus Tours, Holiday Dining Cruises and Movie & TV Site Holiday tours.
See More: December Holiday Tours in New York City
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Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Ceremony, 7-9 pm
The unlit tree arrives in November, then Black Friday and Thanksgiving pass, the department stores open their famous window holiday displays…but it is the week after Thanksgiving that represents the true start of Holiday Season in NYC for many New Yorkers.
Check the full NYC Insider Guide to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
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Which is the BEST NYC Pass? Download our FREE Guide!
See All: Compare All NYC Passes – Download our FREE side by side Comparison Chart
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Best New Years Eve NYC Hotels
If watching the world’s most famous ball drop at midnight from your own New Year’s Eve NYC Hotel is on your bucket list, then don’t miss your chance to reserve a special NYE package in NYC. Some of our favorites include:
- New York Marriott Marquis – rooms with Ball Drop views, multiple parties in hotel
- Casablanca Hotel Times Square – champagne on the rooftop close enough to "touch" the ball
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – special hotel access to Times Square all night and to watch ball drop
See More: Best New Years Eve NYC Hotels
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New Year’s Eve in New York City
You have so many options for New Year’s Eve in NYC.
Dinner Cruises with Fireworks
- Public view of ball drop in Times Square
- Private indoor parties around Times Square with view of ball drop
- Special dinners at thousands of restaurants
- New Years Eve with the New York Philharmonic
Check out the New Year’s Eve Party Guide.
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New Year's Eve Murder Mystery Party 2017
Do something different this New Year's Eve and usher in 2018 with an all-inclusive interactive New Year's Eve Murder Mystery Party. Midnight Million$ is an interactive experience where players must try to spend 1 million dollars in order to inherit a financial empire. Spend your money to get clues from the suspects so you can attempt solve a murder case of a lifetime before the ball drops to inherit a Wall Street empire!
- More Info: New Year's Eve Murder Mystery Party
- Tickets: www.thegametheatre.com
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December New York City Concerts and Shows
- Jerry Seinfeld – Dec 8, 2017; Beacon Theatre
- Billy Joel – Dec 20; MSG
- Jay Z – Dec 2; Nassau Coliseum
- Chris Rock – Dec 6-8; The Theater at MSG
- Andrea Bocelli – Dec 13-14; MSG
- Rockettes Christmas Spectacular – Nov 10, 2017 – Jan 1, 2018
- Nutcracker Ballet – Nov 24-Dec 31, 2017
- Elf the Musical – December 13-29, The Theater at MSG
See More: NYC Concerts Shows December
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NYC Airport Guides - LGA, JFK, EWR
Our detailed NYC Airport Guides go in-depth on everything you need to know about each airport. Free shuttles, nearby hotels, Stay & Fly Free Parking, Taxis, Limos, Shuttles, Parking, Cheap Flights and more.
NYC Insider Print Map and Guide to Manhattan
This guide is incredible! I wish I had found it months ago. I like that it has suggested locations (shopping, restaurants and things to do) in each neighborhood. I can plan out days in each area and have activities, lunch, and maybe even dinner while in that area. Thank you so much – you have done an outstanding job covering everything – all in one reference! - Cindy (November 2017)
Download over 100 pages of NYC maps, information and recommendations in less than 5 minutes! Our NYC Insider Printable Map Guide Book, Travel Planner and Bonus Map Guides include organized, easy to follow, color coded guides, detailed maps of every neighborhood, weekly chart of Free Museum Days and Times and free weekly neighborhood tours, Best of NYC Categories and lists by ALL native New Yorkers. Download everything you need to know NYC Like a Pro and make the most of your NYC vacation.
L-O-V-E this guide! It's well thought out, easy to read and easy to follow with a very sensible layout. I can tell whomever wrote this put a heck of a lot of thought into every section. Thanks so much for this awesome book. This is going to make this our best NYC trip by far. --Brenda, PA
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Elf The Musical
December 13-29, 2017
Enjoy the hilarious tale of Buddy, who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to NYC to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
Discount Tickets: Elf the Musical
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Hotels Near Penn Station, NYC
Staying near Penn Station / Madison Square Garden is a great idea when staying late for the Rangers, Knicks or your favorite concert, arrive or leave early via Amtrak or LIRR or just want to stay in a very affordable area of Manhattan steps from the Empire State Building, Macy's and no more than a 15 minute subway ride anywhere in Manhattan. Some of our top picks near Penn Station include:
- Hotel Pennsylvania - closest to MSG and one of NYC's most popular hotels
- Crowne Plaza HY36 - new in 2018, great reviews online
- Holiday Inn Express – Madison Square Garden - well-reviewed budget hotel
See More: Hotels Near Penn Station, NYC
The Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™
November 24 – December 31, 2017
From the moment the lights dim, you will be transported to a magical place filled with adorable children, marching toy soldiers, a glowing one-ton Christmas tree that seemingly grows forever, mischievous mice, waltzing snowflakes, the Land of Sweets and some of the most glorious dancing on earth. Great seats at Nutcracker Ballet
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Christmas in New York City
There is nothing like Christmas in New York City. The Rockefeller Tree, Central Park, Bryant Park, Lincoln Center, glamorous store window displays and holiday lights everywhere you look bring the most amazing city and landmarks in the world to a whole new level. You want to make sure to have the best dinner, know which attractions are open and closed and so much more.
Read the full NYC Insider Guide to Christmas in New York City to get the inside scoop and plan your Christmas holiday.
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Jacuzzi Hotels NYC in Room
Jacuzzi Hotels NYC in room offer travelers a wonderful way to relax and connect after a long day of walking around NYC. Our top picks for in room jacuzzi spa tubs include:
- The Muse New York - spa suite with a jacuzzi tub (photo)
- Hotel Metro - ask for an "Executive Jacuzzi Room"
- YOTEL at Times Square West - ask for the "The First King Terrace cabin"
See More: Jacuzzi Hotels NYC in Room
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Things To Do in New York in December
Don’t let the cold weather fool you! There are lots of great things to do in New York in December. For starters, winter sports abound, whether you like to play, watch, or both. Shopping reaches a fever pitch this month, from crafts and artists’ markets to flea markets to sample sales.
If you want to ice skate, see the most beautiful skyline lit up to a whole new level, head to Radio City Music Hall for the Rockettes, Lincoln Center for the Nutcracker, see the best of Broadway or the beautiful windows of 5th Avenue, don’t miss our insider tips and guide to a great December in NYC.
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Christmas in New York Holiday Season Calendar
Check our day by day guide to the Holiday Season in New York City. Thanksgiving, the Rockettes, Cocoa and Carols Cruises, The Nutcracker Rockefeller Tree, Central Park Christmas Tree and more on our NYC Holiday Events Calendar. Deck the Halls, Light the Menorah and celebrate Christmas in New York with our calendar.
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Sports New York City Events December
Winter is a great time to catch one of our 6 professional sports teams in action! The Giants and Jets are heading towards the end of football season. Knicks and Nets basketball is underway, as is the NY Rangers and Islanders hockey season. Make sure to add a NYC Game Day to your NYC vacation – it’s an absolute MUST in NYC!
World Championship Boxing: Miguel Cotto vs. Sadam Ali – Dec 2, 2017; MSG
WWE Live Holiday Tour – Dec 26, 2017; MSG& Dec 28; Barclays Center
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The Harlem Globetrotters
Dec 26, 2017; Barclays Center
Dec 27, 2017; MSG
Dec 30, 2017; Prudential Center (NJ)
The legendary Harlem Globetrotters are always a blast to watch. This is not ordinary basketball – it is a comedy show and wholesome family fun. Their high-flying blend of basketball action and comedy has thrilled fans of all ages for over 80 years. We loved this show as a kid.
Harlem Globetrotters Tickets start at $25.
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December Broadway Show Picks
Check out our newest Broadway Shows and top NYC Insider Picks for December!
Meteor Shower Broadway Comedy – Amy Schumer, Laura Benanti, Jeremy Shamos, Keegan-Michael Key
Set in the Ojai, California home of Corky (Schumer) and Norm (Tudyk), the play revolves around a strange dinner party with guests Laura (Benanti) and Gerald (Key). The two couples quickly descend into psychological warfare a la Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? as the titular disturbance causes giant rocks to start falling above them. Previews Nov 1, Opens Nov 29, 2017, Closing Jan 21, 2018. Written by Steve Martin.
SpongeBob SquarePants Broadway Musical
Be there when SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face catastrophe – until a most unexpected hero rises to take center stage and the power of optimism really can save the world. Previews Nov 6, Opens Dec 4, 2017.
Springsteen on Broadway - Starring (duh) Bruce Springsteen!
Bruce Springsteen made his Broadway debut Fall 2017 with “Springsteen on Broadway,” a solo show at the Walter Kerr Theatre. Springsteen performs five shows a week, through at least December 15, 2018.
Dear Evan Hansen – 2017 Tony Award Winner
A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he’s always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. Ages 12+
Full List of Broadway Shows and Discount Broadway Tickets
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Celebrities on Broadway
- Springsteen on Broadway - (to December 15, 2018)
- The Boys in the Band - Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Matt Bomer & Andrew Rannells (Apr 30 - Aug 12, 2018)
- Hello, Dolly! - Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce (July 17 - August 25)
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Fun Things to do in New York in Winter
There are so many things to do in New York in Winter, making it one of the BEST times to visit NYC. Yes, the weather can be cold and wet, so it is a risk. However, there are two huge payoffs, depending on a pre-or post holidays visit. Some of our favorite picks are:
- A Night at the Museum - Sleep over at the Museum of Natural History just like the movie!
- NYC Helicopter Tours - beat the cold weather and see the absolute best NYC views!
- New York City Museums - take in a new exhibit, film or revisit one of your old favorites
See All: Fun Things to do in New York in Winter
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New York Christmas Vacation Packages
Prices on hotels tend to skyrocket during NYC’s busiest time of year! Luckily, we have a fantastic NYC Vacation Company that has scoured the city to bring you the BEST deals and help you enjoy your NYC vacation. December is a great time to book your all inclusive NYC Vacation Package and save. All New York City Vacation Packages include Hotel, Taxes, Free Attractions and Museums, Discounts, Maps, Vacation Planning Assistance and more.
Best New York City Vacation Packages in December:
- Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Vacation Package
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular Hotel Package
- Christmas Dinner Staycation in New York City
- New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop Gala
- New Year’s Eve Times Square Hotel
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Popular New York City Tours and Activities
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Giants & Jets MetLife Schedule
Ready to see the Giants star quarterback, Eli Manning, or wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr with a history-making one armed catch? Perhaps you’d rather see football’s newest stars on the Jets roster? Either way, there’s nothing like a traditional American football game, so head on out to MetLife Stadium, where tickets start at just $40 per game!
NY Giants & Jets Schedule – Home Games December
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Rangers MSG Schedule
Get your New York Rangers tickets and schedule to see our NY hockey team live in action at Madison Square Garden. The NY Rangers have made the finals and/or playoffs the last six consecutive seasons. Their games are the easiest sporting events in NYC to attend, right in Midtown Manhattan, a block from the Empire State Building.
More Info: NY Rangers
NY Rangers Schedule – Home Games December
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Knicks MSG Schedule
The NY Knicks, in their 70th Season, have a great roster, so come join our NY basketball team live in action at Madison Square Garden, “The World’s Most Famous Arena.”
More Info: NY Knicks
NY Knicks Schedule – Home Games December
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New York City Events Calendar 2018
Things to Do in NYC by Month
Our Event Calendars show you exactly which events occur by day, but our Things to Do monthly guides highlight seasonal tours, bike rides, best time for boat cruises, when to buy tickets, the biggest sales and all the optimal times to do activities by month.
Check out our Monthly Things to do in NYC Guides.
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