New York in November and December is pure magic: twinkling lights, glittering windows, festive markets and a skyline made for the season. We rounded up seven holiday experiences with bookable 2026 dates, from harbor cruises to Dyker Heights’ famous light displays, so you can plan with confidence. Popular dates sell out, so book early!
Affiliate disclosure: The experiences below are run by independent local businesses. Some links are referral links through the FareHarbor Distribution Network, so Like A Local Tours may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Availability was checked in October 2026; please confirm dates when you book.
Top-Tier NYC Holiday Experiences
These activities capture the most iconic, searched-for holiday moments in New York City.
1. NYC Holiday Jazz Cruise 🎷
Step aboard a beautifully decorated 1920s-style yacht for a warm and cozy Holiday Jazz Cruise! Glide past the illuminated skyline, Governors Island, and the Statue of Liberty during this 1.5-hour journey from the comfort of a heated, glassed-in solarium. Enjoy a complimentary champagne, wine, or spiked hot cocoa, along with cookies and treats, all set to the festive sounds of a live Holiday Jazz Trio. Perfect for couples, friends, and anyone seeking elegant holiday cheer on the water.
Good to know: 1.5 hours from Chelsea Piers (Pier 62). Bookable dates run from late November into early January.
2. Holiday Spirit in Manhattan: Lights Bus Tour with a Rooftop Bar ✨
Want to see the most lights in one evening? This 4-hour bus tour starts in Times Square and covers holiday highlights across Manhattan, including the Union Square Holiday Market, the Wall Street Christmas tree, the Oculus and the lights at Hudson Yards, with a stop at a rooftop bar.
Good to know: Meets in Times Square on West 45th Street. Bookable dates run from late November until just before Christmas.
Unique Flavors & Festive Exploration 🍦
Move beyond the main avenues to discover hidden gems and tasty traditions.
3. Midtown Holiday Donut Tour (Grand Central to Rockefeller Center) 🍩
Deck the halls with scrumptious donuts! This unique 2-hour tour pairs spectacular holiday decorations with the city’s best artisanal donuts and hot chocolate. You’ll start at Grand Central Terminal, see the lions at the New York Public Library in their holiday finery, and finish by the Rockefeller Center Tree.
Good to know: 2 hours in Midtown. Bookable dates run from late November into early January.
4. Holiday Wine, Cheese & Small Bites Cruise 🍷
Set sail on the Yacht Manhattan for a sophisticated 90-minute cruise past Lower Manhattan sights like the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center. This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a guided tasting of festive wines paired with artisanal cheeses. Perfect for a unique NYC date night!
Good to know: 1.5 hours from Chelsea Piers (Pier 62). Bookable dates run through December.
5. Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Bus Tour: Brooklyn’s Ultimate Display 🏡
Head to Brooklyn to witness the legendary Dyker Heights holiday lights. This 3-hour luxury bus tour takes you through the neighborhood where houses are decked out with life-sized Santas, animated reindeer, and synchronized decorations. A true over-the-top Christmas spectacle!
Good to know: 3 hours by bus from Midtown (8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets). Bookable dates run through December.
Explore on Foot or by Carriage 🎄
Prefer to take in the lights at your own pace? These two classics keep you close to the action.
6. Holiday Lights Walking Tour with Market Shopping 📸
This extended walking tour dives deep into the festive overload, hitting Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and more, plus dedicating time for a 45-minute shopping excursion at an outdoor holiday gift market. Great for shoppers wanting a structured look at the best displays.
Good to know: 3.5 to 4 hours on foot in Midtown. Bookable dates start in early December.
7. Holiday Lights Horse Carriage Ride 🐴
Bundle up for a 45–50 minute horse carriage ride that starts at Central Park South and takes in Midtown’s holiday lights. A classic for couples and families who want a cozy, unhurried way to see the season.
Good to know: Meets at Central Park South near 59th Street and Sixth Avenue. Bookable dates are listed for November and December 2026.
Ready to Make Your 2026 NYC Holiday Memorable?
Make time for a meal with a story, too. Our Chelsea Market, High Line & Hudson Yards Food Tour has November and December dates, and our private tours can be scheduled around your holiday plans.
The best spots and tours fill up weeks, sometimes months, in advance. Don’t miss out on the twinkling magic!
Which of these spectacular New York City holiday activities will be your highlight this year?
Visiting outside the holiday season? See our year-round guide to the best things to do in NYC.
