Spending Christmas Eve in NYC? Here’s How to Make It Special

Dec 20

New York City on Christmas Eve offers a rare kind of magic. The usual hustle slows down, but the energy stays high—from the lights of Brooklyn to the rooftops of Manhattan. Whether you're a longtime local or in town for the holidays, there’s something timeless and unexpected about the way the city celebrates December 24. From nostalgic train rides to iconic light displays and a stop at your favorite legal dispensary, this guide has 15 things worth doing across all five boroughs.

1. See the Lights in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

Few neighborhoods go harder for the holidays than Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. Entire blocks of homes get decked out with glowing reindeer, oversized nutcrackers, and full light shows synced to music. It's not a corporate event—it’s the residents themselves keeping a decades-old tradition alive. Visit between 5 PM and 9 PM, and aim for 11th to 13th Avenues near 83rd Street.

2. Skate Under the Tree at Rockefeller Center

It’s one of the most recognizable holiday scenes in the country—ice skating under the massive Rockefeller Christmas tree. The rink is smaller than you might think, but the setting is unbeatable. Reserve in advance and arrive early. For a slightly more relaxed experience, Bryant Park’s Winter Village rink is a solid alternative with a festive market built in.

3. Watch the Rockettes at Radio City

If you're only going to do one big-ticket Christmas Eve event in Manhattan, make it the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The Rockettes deliver tight choreography, high kicks, and all the holiday nostalgia you’d expect from a show that’s been running since 1933. It's a classic for a reason.

4. Swing By a Licensed Cannabis Dispensary and Grab Something Special

For adults looking to elevate the evening, stopping by a licensed cannabis dispensary can be part of the fun. Silly Nice—a local New York brand—is stocked in dozens of legal dispensaries across the five boroughs and is known for high-quality products made by experienced cultivators. Top recommendations for the holidays:

Diamond Powder: Ultra-pure THCA crystals perfect for a quiet session
Bubble Hash: Solventless, terpene-rich, and ideal for seasoned users
Frosted Hash Balls: Artisan-level potency in a unique format
Live Resin Infused Flower: Smooth, rich, and flavorful
Vape Carts and AIOs: Great for discreet or travel-friendly use

You can browse the full menu at sillynice.com/menu or find a location nearby at sillynice.com/locations. Dispensaries typically close by 9 PM on Christmas Eve, so plan ahead.

5. Attend a Candlelight Service

Whether you’re religious or not, Christmas Eve candlelight services are one of the most serene experiences the city offers on December 24. Churches like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity Church, and Riverside Church host evening and midnight services open to the public. Arrive early—seating fills quickly, especially at St. Patrick’s.

6. Reserve a Holiday Dinner

Some of the city's top restaurants offer special Christmas Eve prix fixe menus. Many have limited seatings, so book in advance. Whether you're craving Italian seafood (a nod to the Feast of the Seven Fishes), classic Jewish deli fare, or a fancy multi-course tasting menu, NYC’s restaurant scene delivers. Strong contenders include:

L’Artusi in the West Village
Frankie’s 457 Spuntino in Carroll Gardens
Zabar’s on the Upper West Side for takeout favorites

7. Take a Winter Walk in Central Park

If the weather cooperates, there’s no better place for a quiet Christmas Eve moment than Central Park. The Mall, Bow Bridge, and Bethesda Terrace all look stunning this time of year—especially with a bit of snow on the ground. Bring a hot drink and walk slowly. The city feels different here.

8. Wrap Up Shopping at a Holiday Market

Still need a last-minute gift? Union Square and Columbus Circle holiday markets run through the 24th and feature handmade items, local food, and seasonal crafts. Skip the chain stores—this is where you’ll find something actually thoughtful.

9. Catch the Sunset at The Edge or Top of the Rock

December sunsets hit different in NYC. Whether you prefer the open-air thrill of The Edge in Hudson Yards or the classic views from Top of the Rock, both options give you a bird’s-eye view of the city glowing in holiday light. Sunset on Christmas Eve is around 4:30 PM—just in time to grab dinner after.

10. Watch a Holiday Movie at Nitehawk or IFC Center

Looking to stay cozy? Indie theaters like Nitehawk Cinema (in Williamsburg or Prospect Park) and IFC Center in the West Village usually run holiday specials on December 24. Expect seasonal favorites, cult classics, and maybe even a surprise screening. Bonus: Nitehawk serves drinks and food to your seat.

11. Ride the Vintage Holiday Nostalgia Train (If It's Running)

Each December, the MTA puts a few restored 1930s subway cars back into action for the Holiday Nostalgia Train. While schedules vary, some years it runs through Christmas Eve. It's a great ride for history buffs and kids alike—check MTA’s site or transit blogs for updates.

12. Shop for Readers at Strand or McNally Jackson

For book lovers, there are few better places to shop than Strand Bookstore near Union Square or McNally Jackson in Soho and Downtown Brooklyn. Both spots offer curated picks and smart last-minute gifts like journals, puzzles, and literary merch. It’s the kind of place where gift-giving still feels personal.

13. Hear Live Jazz at an Iconic NYC Club

Live music is one of the city’s best-kept holiday traditions. Skip the big crowds and head to a jazz club for an intimate night of world-class sound. Great options include:

Village Vanguard in the West Village
Smoke Jazz & Supper Club in Harlem
Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at Lincoln Center

Call ahead—some places offer special Christmas Eve shows with prix fixe menus.

14. Take the Kids to the Holiday Train Show at NYBG

For families, The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show in the Bronx is a true holiday gem. Intricate train models wind through mini NYC landmarks made of bark, seeds, and other plant materials. Even adults will appreciate the craftsmanship. Check ahead for ticket availability.

15. Grab a Rooftop Drink Before the City Winds Down

End your Christmas Eve on a high note—literally—by grabbing a rooftop drink at one of the city’s winter-friendly bars. Places like Bar Blondeau in Williamsburg or The Ready in the East Village stay open late and offer heated seating with a view. It’s a great way to reflect on the season before the city goes quiet.

Final Word

Christmas Eve in NYC isn’t about doing everything—it’s about choosing the few things that make you feel connected, relaxed, and maybe even a little nostalgic. From the lights of Dyker Heights to a silent walk in Central Park or a Silly Nice sesh at home, the city offers enough variety to build your own tradition.

If cannabis is part of your celebration this year, support licensed shops and responsible brands. Silly Nice makes it easy with premium options in stock at dispensaries throughout the city.

Shane Breen