The holiday season is officially in full swing and our city is brimming with a multitude of fun things to do. No matter your age or budget, there is something for everyone. Take some time to enjoy the season — explore the neighborhoods and businesses that make New York City the place to live, work and visti!  Listed below are a few of our favorite things. 

First on our list is the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center that has been taking center stage for more than eight decades. And this year is no different. On November 30, the tree came to life with 50,000 LED lights, and the star has 3 million Swarovski crystals.  Now that’s a blot of bling!  The tree will be lit daily from 6 a.m. -12 a.m. Follow on Instagram and Facebook for more information.

This year, Chanukah runs from December 18 to 26. Like in years past, Broadway Stages is sponsoring the lighting of the open air menorah at North 7th Street and Bedford Avenue. It is an honor to be a part of this annual celebration, and we thank Rabbi Nissim and Rabbi Shmuel for the opportunity to join in the Chanukah celebration. Visit the Chabad of North Brooklyn, the Chabad of Greenpoint or their Facebook page for more information as the dates approach!

While you are in Greenpoint, be sure to stroll along  Manhattan Avenue to enjoy the Christmas light display and do a little shopping while you are in town.  For years, Broadway Stages has been a sponsor of the Manhattan Avenue Christmas light display, and we are proud to bring holiday cheer to the community again this year! Special thanks to Donna Siafakas, the owner and operator of Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop in Greenpoint for leading the effort to bring holiday lights to Manhattan Avenue.

Just down the road in Queens you will find more holiday bling at the Shops at Atlas Parks. With 42 shops to choose from, you’ll surely find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Bring the family and enjoy the lights — proudly sponsored by Broadway Stages —  and let the kids visit with Santa! Keep up-to-date on all that is happening at The Shops on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

For adults looking for a little holiday cheer, consider exploring the Winter Village at Westlight in Williamsburg, complete with chalets, a skating rink, and festive holiday cocktails! You can indulge in Alpine-style fondue, signature dishes, and seasonal craft cocktails! This rooftop (located at the top of The William Vale) is the place to do it!

You definitely want to stop by the Holiday Market hosted by Greenpionters.com. After a two year hiatus, the Holiday Market will make it’s comeback on December 11. Be sure to add this to you calendar. It’s a lot of fun and a great way to support local vendors!

You may also wish to check out the Lightscape at Brookyn Botanic Garden or the Winter Lantern Festival that will take place in various locations across New York including Staten Island.

But wait, there’s more! Take a look at this NY Times Guide to NYC Holiday Events to learn about other ways to enjoy our city this hoiday season!

No matter where or how you choose to celebrate the holiday, we wish you a safe and joyful season.