A Festive Guide to Christmas and Holiday Cheer in New York City with Like A Local Tours
New York City at Christmas is a magical experience, with every corner twinkling with festive lights and brimming with holiday spirit. From cozy markets to waterfront wonders, there’s something for everyone. We love to see our favorite spots on our tours all dressed up for the Holidays and hope you will too!
Chelsea Market: A Gourmet Wonderland
Chelsea Market transforms into a festive haven, adorned with strings of twinkling lights, oversized ornaments, and lush greenery. The market’s holiday pop-up shops are perfect for finding unique gifts, from hand-poured candles to quirky art prints. Seasonal treats abound, with warm cider donuts, artisanal chocolates, and festive cocktails taking center stage.
Hidden Gem: Don’t miss Artists & Fleas, an in-house marketplace showcasing handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and other treasures. It’s a great spot for finding that one-of-a-kind gift.
Pro Tip: Visit during the evening when the lights create an enchanting atmosphere, and be sure to check for live music or caroling performances happening throughout December.
Experience: Chelsea Market, High Line & Hudson Yards Food Tour
Photo credit: Pier57
Pier 57: Festive by the Hudson
At Pier 57, the holidays are celebrated with waterfront flair. The rooftop park becomes a winter wonderland with festive light installations and stunning views of the Hudson River. Indoors, rotating art exhibits take on holiday themes, and special holiday markets pop up offering handmade goods and gourmet food items.
Hidden Gem: Check out Little Island, the nearby floating park, which is lit up in a soft glow during the holidays. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet winter stroll.
Pro Tip: Bundle up and enjoy a hot drink from our social impact partner Bird & Branch while taking in a winter sunset over the Hudson.
Experience: Chelsea Market, High Line & Hudson Yards Food Tour
Hudson Yards: A Modern Christmas Marvel
Hudson Yards truly shines during the holidays with its breathtaking Shine Bright installation featuring over two million lights. The shops are brimming with festive displays, and the plaza often hosts live performances, from jazz quartets to carolers. The nearby Vessel, a honeycomb-like structure, becomes an iconic backdrop for holiday photos.
Hidden Gem: Head to Mercado Little Spain for a festive spin on Spanish holiday treats, like churros con chocolate and turrón.
Pro Tip: Visit after dark for the full effect of the lights, and make a reservation at a nearby restaurant like Peak for skyline views paired with festive dining.
Experience: Chelsea Market, High Line & Hudson Yards Food Tour
Photo credit: Essex Market
Essex Market: Cozy and Community-Focused
Essex Market feels like stepping into a cozy holiday fair. Vendors bring out the best of the season with gingerbread cookies, spiced nuts, and festive cakes. It’s also a hub for holiday workshops, from wreath-making to cookie decorating.
Pro Tip: Stop by during the weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy personal interactions with vendors eager to share their holiday specialties.
Experience: Immigrant NY: LES, Chinatown & Little Italy Food Tour
Union Square: Holiday Market Extravaganza
The Union Square Holiday Market is a quintessential Holidays in NYC destination. Over 100 vendors line the square, selling handcrafted items, ornaments, and gourmet treats. The atmosphere is pure magic with carolers, twinkling lights, and the scent of pine filling the air.
Hidden Gem: Keep an eye out for the UrbanSpace Provisions booth, which often has limited-edition holiday goodies from NYC’s top chefs and bakers.
Pro Tip: Visit the park’s north side for a quieter area to enjoy your spiced apple cider and admire the surrounding lights.
Experience: NoMad & Flatiron Architecture & Food Tour
Williamsburg: Hip and Festive
Williamsburg offers a unique, artsy twist on the holidays. Bedford Avenue and surrounding streets are lined with quirky decorations, and local boutiques host special holiday events. Weekend craft fairs like the Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar feature handmade jewelry, art, and vintage goods.
Hidden Gem: Visit Domino Park for its understated yet stunning holiday lighting along the East River. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful holiday photo op.
Pro Tip: Stop by local bakeries like Northside Bakery for Polish holiday pastries or Levain Bakery for their famous gooey cookies.
Experience: Williamsburg Bites: A Brooklyn Foodie Adventure
TimeOut Market DUMBO: Gourmet Cheer
TimeOut Market in DUMBO is a festive feast for the senses. The rooftop is adorned with twinkling lights, and the market’s vendors feature holiday-themed dishes, from decadent desserts to seasonal cocktails. After eating, take a stroll to enjoy DUMBO’s holiday charm.
Hidden Gem: Check out the Powerhouse Arena, a bookstore and event space nearby, for unique books and gifts. It often hosts holiday-themed readings and workshops.
Pro Tip: Head outside to Pebble Beach for incredible views of the Manhattan Bridge, especially when lit up at night.
Experience: Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Bridge, & DUMBO Food Tour
DUMBO: A Winter Wonderland
DUMBO’s cobblestone streets and industrial charm make it a picturesque holiday destination. The Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market in the Pearl Street Triangle is a treasure trove of vintage finds and artisanal goods. Jane’s Carousel, surrounded by festive decorations, offers a nostalgic holiday experience.
Hidden Gem: Seek out Almondine Bakery for authentic French pastries with a holiday twist, like bûche de Noël and spiced financiers.
Pro Tip: End your visit with a walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park to Emily Roebling Plaza, where the lights add a touch of magic to the riverside views.
Experience: Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Bridge, & DUMBO Food Tour
Urban Hawker: Global Festivities
Urban Hawker brings international holiday flavors to Midtown. This Singaporean-inspired food hall offers dishes infused with festive flair, from pandan desserts to holiday-themed noodle dishes. The cozy indoor space is perfect for escaping the winter chill while indulging in something delicious.
Hidden Gem: Check out the smaller vendors tucked in the corners, often featuring limited-edition holiday specials like durian-flavored ice cream or spiced rice cakes.
Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a festive bubble tea or a traditional Singaporean coffee for a true holiday twist.
Experience: Hell’s Kitchen Dessert Tour
New York City at Christmas is brimming with holiday spirit, hidden gems, and Instagram-worthy spots waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring iconic markets or lesser-known neighborhoods, the season’s magic is everywhere. So bundle up, grab a festive treat, and let the city (or Like A Local!) guide you through an unforgettable holiday experience!