Manhattan Holiday Events - Manhattan NYC
Christmas Tree Lightings, Hanukkah Menorah Lightings, & Kwanzaa Candle Lightings in Manhattan & Holiday Markets & Events NYC
December 15, 2023 / Upper East Side UES / Upper West Side UWS / Midtown NYC / East Village & West Village / Tribeca SoHo Bowery / Holiday Events & Holiday Markets - Kwanzaa, Hanukkah & Christmas Holidays in Manhattan / Manhattan Buzz NYC.
Be sure to visit our Manhattan holiday markets NYC page, as it contains related holiday events with a shopping element to them.
For links to holiday events and markets in all five boroughs of NYC scroll down to the bottom of this report.
How The Manhattan Holiday Events Page on this Page are Organized
NOTE. We added an Update Log at the beginning of the listings, so it's easier for you to stay abreast of changes / updates / new additions.
These holiday events in Manhattan are organized as follows:
1. BY NEIGHBORHOODS OF MANHATTAN
2. BY DATE - (not always as it depends on when the info comes in)
Watch carefully as some locales have multiple dates, and all dates for a given locale are shown at the time the venue is first listed.
3. ALL OF THESE ARE FREE UNLESS FEES ARE SPECIFIED.
4. *** Note MANHATTAN HOLIDAY MARKETS are published on a separate page - the links to which are posted at the bottom of this page, along with links to other boroughs.
Manhattan Holiday Lights, Christmas Tree Lightings, Hanukkah Menorah Lightings, Kwanzaa Candle Lightings Background
The holidays are a special time of the year. In ancient times there were harvest celebrations to give thanks and enjoy the bounty after a long growing and harvesting season aka a year of work.
Holiday lighting festivals and ceremonies have been on the rise in Manhattan in recent years. While some date back many years, some are fairly new.
Attending holiday lightings alone, with friends or with the kids gives folks a chance to enjoy their own cultural heritage and provides an opportunity to learn a bit more about and share in the cultural heritage of others.
Each lighting is a bit different, as some are orginated by the community, some by businesses, some by religious organizations, and a few have arts organizations behind them. Please feel free to send us a notice of your holiday lighting event if it's not posted herein.
Manhattan Holiday Events & Holiday Markets Now Underway
This is not meant to be a complete list, but rather a list of the holiday lighting events. The holiday lighting events are organized individually by each Manhattan neighborhood including the Upper East Side UES, the Upper West Side UWS, Midtown NYC, the East Village, the West Village, the Bowery, SoHo, Tribeca and more to come. Many include the serving of some beverage like hot chocolate and generally some snack like cookies.
- Click here for our report about the Xmas / Christmas Tree Lightings, Hanukkah Menorah Lightings, Kwanzaa Candle Lightings - holiday things to do Manhattan - Christmas, Hanukkah & Kwanzaa events Manhattan NYC.
Manhattan Holiday Events - Manhattan NYC
Xmas Tree, Menorah & Candle Lightings & Other Holiday Events on the Upper East Side UES, Upper West Side UWS, Midtown NYC, East Village, West Village, Bowery, SoHo, Tribeca
December 15, 2023 / Upper East Side UES / Upper West Side UWS / Midtown NYC / East Village & West Village / Tribeca SoHo Bowery / Holiday Events & Holiday Markets - Kwanzaa, Hanukkah & Christmas Holidays in Manhattan / Manhattan Buzz NYC. Continued.
The following is a compendium of holiday events in Manhattan. The events usually begin shortly after Halloween and through Christmas.
We have also provided our readers with a report about many of the biggest holiday markets in Manhattan running throughout the holiday season. Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukka, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
- Click here to view our report about Manhattan holiday markets - Manhattan NYC.
- Click here for our monthly events calendar which will include all of the Manhattan holiday things to do - Kwanzaa Hanukkah & Christmas events in Manhattan NYC each month.
UPDATED WEEKLY THRU THE HOLIDAYS
Asterisked markets have NOT been updated to 2023
Pay attention to the dates / year
UPDATE CHANGE LOG
WEEKLY UPDATES OR NEW ADDITIONS 2023
SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILS
PLEASE NOTE. These brief Manhattan holiday events are in 2023 chronological order. For further details on times, locations and event descriptions, scroll down to the Manhattan geography / section noted at the end of each event.
November Holiday Events in Manhattan
Thursday, November 16, 2023 - Early 2024 - The 20th Annual Holiday Toy Train Show at Grand Central Terminal. Midtown.
Monday, November 20, 2023 thru early January 2024 - the Origami tree will be lit at the American Museum of Natural History on the UWS. See below for details.
On Thanksgiving Day 11/23 the Parade will begins on the UWS going to Midtown. See below for details.
Monday, November 20, 2023 - Monday, January 8, 2024 - Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History. UWS.
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 - January 6, 2024 from 8 am to 10 pm - Light Shows thru January 1, 2024 - Brookfield Place Holiday Lights. Downtown.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at 5.30 - 8 pm - Tavern on the Green Tree Lighting Event. UWS.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 from 5 - 6 pm - Manhattan Holiday Event Light Up the Nights at Verdi Square. UWS.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 beginning at 6 pm / Line starts forming at 4 pm - Bryant Park Holiday Tree Lighting Event. Midtown.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 - South Street Seaport Holiday Tree Lighting Events begin at 6 pm, lighting followed by performances, 7 pm after party at the ice rink. Downtown.
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 from 7 - 9 pm - Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Event. Midtown.
Thursday, November 30, 2023 from 5.30 - 6.30 pm - Dana Discovery Center Tree Lighting Event Central Park. Harlem & Washington Hts. Also, UES.
Thursday, November 30, 2023 from 3 pm - 6 pm - Tree is lit up just after the closing bell at 4.15 pm - NYSE 100th Annual NYSE Tree Lighting Event. Downtown.
December Holiday Events in Manhattan
Thursday, November 16, 2023 - Early 2024 - The 20th Annual Holiday Toy Train Show at Grand Central Terminal. Midtown.
Monday, November 20, 2023 - Monday, January 8, 2024 - Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History. UWS.
Saturdays ONLY [last year it was Sunday], December 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2023 from 10 am - 5 pm - Vintage Subway Car / Nostalgia Subway Holiday Train Rides in Manhattan. Midtown.
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 - January 6, 2024 from 8 am to 10 pm - Light Shows thru January 1, 2024 - Brookfield Place Holiday Lights. Downtown.
Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 4.30 – 6 pm - Hudson Christmas Tree Lighting in Riverside Park. UWS.
Sunday, December 3, 2023 beginning at 5 pm - Carl Schurz Park Holiday Tree Lighting Event. UES.
Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 4.30 - 6 pm a hot cocoa & candy cane social and from 6.30 - 7.3 pm with the tree lighting at 6.30 pm followed by carols - Park Avenue Christmas Trees Lighting. UES.
Sundays, December 3, 10 & 17, 2023 between 12 noon and 6 pm - Open Streets in Midtown Manhattan along Fifth Avenue. Midtown.
Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 4 - 6 pm Madison Square Park Holiday Tree Lighting Events in Manhattan. Midtown.
Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 6 to 7 pm - Washington Square Tree Lighting Event. Village.
Thursday, December 7, 2023 beginning at 7 pm - J. S. Bach's Christmas Oratorio - Carnegie Hall Holiday Concert Performance. Midtown.
Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 7 to 9 pm - Decolonizing the Ukrainian Language - at the Ukrainian Museum in Manhattan. Village.
Thursday - Thursday, December 7 - 14, 2023 beginning at 5.30 pm nightly - Menorah Lighting at Grand Army Plaza. Midtown.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 8, 9 & 10, 2023 from 3 to 6 pm, 10 am to 2.30 pm and 12 noon to 2 pm, respectively - St. Nick on St. Nick's Extravaganza - This is a toy collection drive at Harlem School of the Arts. Harlem.
Friday, December 8 & 15, 2023 from 5.30 - 7 pm - Birdland Big Band at the Birdland Jazz Club. Midtown. FYI - there are performances almost every night.
Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 10 am - 8 pm - Santa Con Costume Party Bar Hopping Event. Midtown.
Sunday, December 10, 2023 beginning at 11 am - Chanukah Festival Bring in the Light - 92nd Y Celebrates Hanukkah. UES.
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, December 13, 14 & 15, 2023 beginning at 7 pm - Trinity Church / Wall Street - Handel's Messiah Holiday Concert. Downtown.
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 14, 15, 16 & 17, 2023 beginning at 7 pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, also at 2 pm Saturday, and at 12 noon and 5 pm on Sunday - Dances Patrelle - Yorkville Nutcracker at the Kaye Playhouse. UES.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 15, 16 & 17, 2023 beginning at 7 pm Fri, 3 pm & 7 pm Sat, and 3 pm on Sun - Home for the Holidays theatrical performance at Harlem School of the Arts. Harlem.
Friday, December 15, 2023 from 6.30 to 9.30 pm - Shabbat Dinner - Hanukkah at the Jewish Museum. UES.
Sunday, December 17, 2023 from 4 to 6.30 pm - The Riverside Church Candlelight Carol Service. UWS.
Sunday Night / Monday Morning, December 24 / 25, 2023 - St. Patrick's Cathedral Midnight Mass. Midtown.
Saturday, December 23 - Thursday, December 28, 2023 - Yiddish Festival at the Museum for Jewish Heritage in Battery Park City. Downtown.
- CLICK this link to view this and other current & upcoming Manhattan holiday markets & shops NYC.
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Midtown Manhattan Holiday Events NYC
Christmas Tree, Menorah & Kwanzaa Lightings
Use link at top of page for - Midtown Holiday Markets in Manhattan NYC
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade & Holiday Tree Lighting
Thursday, November 23, 2023 beginning at 9 am
Description.
Not Confirmed [but they did this last year 2022]. On Monday and Tuesday nights there are performances down at Herald Square which is the park across for Macy's anchor store at 151 West 34th Street.
Confirmed. On Wednesday night you can view the balloons at the American Museum of Natural History along 77th Street, Central Park West and 81st Street. And while it's crowded, it's generally quite manageable as the locals have done it and most of the visitors don't know about it. Manhattan holiday tree lighting events on the Upper West Side UWS and in Midtown Manhattan NYC.
Location / Parade Route.The parade steps off from about West 77th Street at the American Museum of Natural History on Central Park West on the Upper West Side. The parade then marches south along Central Park West, east along 59th Street, south along 6th Avenue and west on 34th Street ending at Macy's Herald Square, where they do a Christmas tree lighting around noon. It's very crowded along the parade route, oftentimes by people who start taking their positions as early as 6 am'ish, as they have traveled from - around the nation and around the globe - to view the event so they don't take any chances on not getting a good view.
Contact. https://www.macys.com/s/parade/
Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Event - Manhattan NYC
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 from 7 - 9 pm
The tree is lit daily from 5 am - 12 midnight except Christmas Day when it's lit for 24 hours and New Years Eve when it turns off at 9 pm. The tree will remain on display through the second Saturday 1/13/24 of January 2024
Description. Started in 1932, the Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony has gone on for 90 years as of 2022. There's entertainment along with the lighting and it's broadcast by NBC which has studios on the premises. The tree generally arrives in early to mid November. Manhattan holiday tree lighting events in Midtown Manhattan NYC.
Location. The big Christmas tree is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza and there's access via 5th Avenue between 49th and 51st Streets and along 49th and 51st Streets between 5th and 6th Avenues.
Contact. https://www.rockefellercenter.com
Open Streets in Midtown 2023 - Holiday Events in Manhattan NYC
Sundays, December 3, 10 & 17, 2023 between 12 noon and 6 pm
Description. Fifth Avenue will be closed to vehicles from 48th to 59th Street, and open to pedestrians. This is the second year of this event.
Location. Fifth Avenue will be closed to vehicles and open to pedestrians from 48th to 57th Street.
Contact. https://www.nyc.gov
Grand Army Plaza Manhattan Menorah Lighting Events Hanukkah
Thursday - Thursday, December 7 - 14, 2023 beginning at 5.30 pm nightly - Menorah Lighting
Description. Every night of Hanukkah there's a candle lighting of one of the world's largest menorahs [32 feet tall and weighing 4,000 pounds]. The lightings begin nightly at 5.30 pm . Manhattan holiday menorah lighting events on the Upper East Side UES / Midtown Manhattan NYC. [In the past the times varied around the weekend - it was except on Friday [3.30 pm] and Saturday [8 pm] to accommodate services on the Sabbath] - but apparently not this year.
Location. Grand Army Plaza is located at 5th Avenue & 59th Street in Midtown across from what used to be the Plaza Hotel [it is now mostly luxury facilities and residences].
Contact. https://www.centralpark.com | www.chabad.org and www.nycparks.gov
* The video below shows the Large Menorah Lighting in Midtown Manhattan in a prior year. The event returns Thursday 12/7/23 as Hanukkah begins - see details below.
Grand Central Holiday Toy Train Show - Holiday Things to do in Manhattan NYC
The 20th Annual Holiday Toy Train Show at Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan
Thursday, November 16, 2023 - Early 2024 [before pandemic it stayed open until February but they provided no specifics this year] from 10 am daily, closing at 7.30 pm weekdays & closing at 6 pm weekends [closed major holidays]
Description. This is the first time since the pandemic that the holiday toy train show has returned. Here's what they told us, " ... For the first time since 2019, the New York Transit Museum’s Grand Central Gallery plays host to a city within a city with the display of a miniature electric railroad running over, through, and beneath some of New York’s most magnificent landmarks. This beloved annual holiday exhibit features model trains traveling along a 34′ long, two-level, “O” gauge model train layout. Departing from a miniature replica of Grand Central Terminal, the Transit Museum’s collection of Lionel trains including Metro-North, Polar Express, and vintage subway train sets will dazzle the eyes of children and adults alike as they make their way past New York landmarks and on to the North Pole ...".
Location. At Grand Central Station in Midtown. The main entrance to Grand Central Terminal is at Park Avenue and 42nd Street and the train show is located near the northwest corner of the main floor.
Contact. https://grandcentralterminal.com | https://www.nytransitmuseum.org
Vintage Subway Car / Nostalgia Subway Holiday Train Rides - Manhattan
Saturdays ONLY [last year it was Sunday], December 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2023 from 10 am - 5 pm
Locations. For the price of an MTA fare, passengers may ride the MTA vintage 1930s, 1940's, 1950's and 1960's train cars departing from the Downtown 2nd Avenue F train subway station in Lower Manhattan riding north and from the 145th Street D train subway station riding south. Passengers must disembark at the end stops.
North Bound Departure Times. EVERY SUNDAY. The departure times heading north from 2nd Avenue in Lower Manhattan are: • 10 am, • 12 noon, • 2 pm and • 4 pm. You can board at stops in between by estimating subsequent train stops / departure times by figuring out how long a subway train might take to arrive at the northbound stops.
South Bound Departure Times. EVERY SUNDAY. The departure times heading south from 145th Street in Harlem are:• 11 am, • 1 pm, • 3 pm and • 5 pm. And again, you can estimate the departure time of the other southbound stops by figuring out how long it would take a subway train to to arrive at the southbound stops.
Last year masks were recommended, but not required. And I believe this year [2023] is the same.
Contact. https://www.nytransitmuseum.org
The video below shows snippets from a ride on the Vintage Subway Cars running through Manhattan on Sundays between 12 noon and 5 pm along the F and A lines in a prior year. See Holiday events section or link below for details on how to take a ride for the cost of a subway fare.
Bryant Park Holiday Tree Lighting Event
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 beginning at 6 pm / Line starts forming at 4 pm
Description. Tree lighting with music, dance and theatrical performances by Broadway musical and skating stars. Please note that the skating rink is closed between 1 - 7 pm on that day.
Location. Bryant Park between 40th and 42nd Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues.
Contact. https://bryantpark.org/
Madison Square Park Holiday Tree Lighting Events in Manhattan
Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 4 - 6 pm
Description. The event includes music, giveaways and treats. The illumination of the Tree begins at 5 pm. This is the 111th holiday tree lighting [since 1912] which is said to be the first public tree lighting.
For many years they hired an expert designer - as in 2016 the tree decor was designed by David Beahm Experiences, in sync with the sculptural exhibition, Fata Morgana, by artist Teresita Fernández [see photo at right].
In 2019, the festival included the return of Taste of Home‘s Gingerbread Blvd, a candy cane reindeer craft activity, a winter tree identification activity, and performances by Sing for Hope Youth Chorus, Finding Neverland the Musical, the New York Life Singers and kindie performer Audra Rox. Hill Country Chicken and Almond restaurants will serve treats.
This year [2023] there will be baked goods and live performances, and treats will be given out while supplies last. Parents are asked not to bring strollers.
Location. In the northern section of Madison Square Park which is located between 23rd and 26th Streets and between Madison & 5th Avenues.
Contact. https://madisonsquarepark.org and www.nycparks.gov.
Organized by the Madison Square Park Conservancy in collaboration with Flatiron 23rd Street Partnership and NYC Parks & Recreation. Manhattan holiday tree lighting and menorah lighting events in the Flatiron District of Midtown Manhattan NYC.
Santa Con Costume Party Bar Hopping Event in Midtown Manhattan NYC
Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 10 am - 8 pm
Description. Santacon happens mostly at Midtown Manhattan bars, but also some in the East Village. Santacon is a [generally Santa] costume party bar hopping event. It can be fun and you can meet people. But ... it is definitely a bit like New Years Eve and St. Pat's Day, when all of the amateur drinkers come out to play and you know what that means ... And lastly, some of the proceeds of Santacon are donated to community non-profits and charitable organizations addressing social issues. Many folks dress up in a Santa or elf or related costume. They prefer you to wear full garb which many participants do.
Admission. Tickets are $16 for a badge and list / map of particpating bars.
Location. In 2022 they met at 10 am at at 39th Street and Broadway in Midtown Manhattan. Every year the starting / meet location and the particpating venues / bars are disclosed on their site the week before.
Contact. https://santacon.nyc
Carnegie Hall Holiday Concert Performance - Cultural Events / Things to do Manhattan NYC
Thursday, December 7, 2023 beginning at 7 pm - J. S. Bach's Christmas Oratorio
Description. A classical Christmas concert performance by the Orchesta of St. Lukes at one of NYC's oldest and finest cultural venues. They describe the event as follows, " ... with La Chapelle de Québec and soloists. Hearing this joyful, soaring work during the holiday season is an experience cherished by generations, and it will be magical to experience it in the comfort and elegance of Carnegie Hall’s most iconic performance space ...". Holiday events and things to do in Manhattan NYC. Admission. $41 - $106 at the website below.
Location. At the Stern Auditorium on the Perlman Stage at Carnegie Hall at 57th Street and 7th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.
Contact. https://www.carnegiehall.org/
Birdland Jazz Club - Holiday Cultural Events Manhattan NYC
Friday, December 8 & 15, 2023 from 5.30 - 7 pm - Birdland Big Band
Friday, December 10, 2023 from 5.30 - 7 pm - Birdland Big Band Holiday Party
Sunday, December 17, 2023 from 5.30 - 7 pm - Svetlana's Big Band
Thursday, December 21, 2023 from 5.30 - 7 pm - A Swinging Birdland Christmas Live - to be streamed a few days later
Description. Jazz performances at one of NYC's classic jazz venues. Tickets generally range from $20 - $40 with the sweet spot about $35.
Location. At 315 West 44th Street in Midtown Manhattan. Holiday things to do in Manhattan NYC.
Contact. https://birdlandjazz.com/
St. Patrick's Cathedral Midnight Mass in NYC
Sunday Night / Monday Morning, December 24 / 25, 2023 beginning at 12 midnight / am
Description. Tickets are required to enter this traditional Catholic / Christian evening mass which is a historical theatrical production reflecting thousands of years of religious tradition. You need to have a ticket which were selected via a lottery from June 1 - November 22nd, 2023.
Location. The church is located along 5th Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets in Midtown Manhattan.
Contact. https://www.saintpatrickscathedral.org/
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Upper East Side UES Holiday Events - Manhattan
Holiday Tree & Candle Lighting Events
Use link at top of page for - Upper East Side Holiday Markets on the UES of Manhattan NYC
Dana Discovery Center Tree Lighting in Central Park on the UES Manhattan
Scroll down to Harlem - It's on November 30, 2023
Dances Patrelle - Yorkville Nutcracker on the UES Manhattan
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 14, 15, 16 & 17, 2023 beginning at 7 pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, also at 2 pm Saturday, and at 12 noon and 5 pm on Sunday
Description. Choreographer / Dance Artist Frances Patrelle returns with his holiday classic ballet that enthralls the senses with aesthetic wonderment. Holiday dance events on the Upper East Side of Manhattan NYC. Admission. Tickets range from $80.
Location. At the Kaye Playhouse on 68th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues on the Upper East Side. Holiday events and things to do in Manhattan NYC.
Contact. https://www.dancespatrelle.org | https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/kayeplayhouse
92nd Y Celebrates Hanukkah on the UES Manhattan
Sunday, December 10, 2023 beginning at 11 am - Chanukah Festival Bring in the Light
Description. They tell us this event, " ... includes dreidel spinning contests, Hebrew Letter Yoga, art projects, face-painting, dancing, Chanukah treats, and more led by ATiD Afterschool and Camp Yomi staffers [and] .... will conclude [the] festival with lighting the Menorah ..." Hanukkah events on the Upper East Side of Manhattan NYC. Admission. $18.
Location. The 92nd Y is located at 1395 Lexington Avenue between 91st & 92nd Avenues on the Upper East Side. This event will take place at Lexington Avenue & 92nd Street.
Contact. https://www.92ny.org
Carl Schurz Park Holiday Tree Lighting Event - UES NYC
Sunday, December 3, 2023 beginning at 5 pm
Description. A traditional tree lighting including carols, a holiday musical performance by a choir with brass, candlelight, candy canes and hot chocolate. Manhattan holiday tree lighting and menorah lighting events on the Upper East Side UES NYC.
Location. In Carl Schurz Park at East 86th Street and East End Avenue.
Contact. https://www.carlschurzparknyc.org & www.nycparks.gov.
Park Avenue Christmas Trees Lighting - Manhattan NYC
Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 4.30 - 6 pm a hot cocoa & candy cane social and from 6.30 - 7.3 pm with the tree lighting at 6.30 pm followed by carols
Description. This holiday event / Christmas tree lighting tradition began in 1945 to honor the World War II dead as a reminder of the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made to preserve it.
The southbound lanes of Park Avenue between 89th and 93rd Streets are closed from late afternoon [somewhere between 3 and 5 pm] until after the event is over [roughly about 8 pm]. The Park Avenue tree lighting is preceded by a hot cocoa social beginning at 4.30 pm in Watson Hall at Brick Presbyterian Church at Park Avenue and 91st Street. Brick Presbyterian Church partnered with the Fund For Park Avenue which sponsors the event and the social is non-denominational meaning people of all faiths are welcome to attend. Manhattan holiday tree lighting events on the Upper East Side UES NYC.
Location. The primary location for this event centers around Brick Presbyterian Church on Park Avenue at 91st Street, but generally the streets from 89th Street to 97th Street along Park Avenue are closed.
Contact. https://www.brickchurch.org/
The video below captures some of the Brick Presbyterian / Park Avenue lighting event in a prior year.
* Holiday Lighting Events - Metropolitan Museum Manhattan
Christmas & Hanukkah Cultural Exhibits at the Met Museum over the Holidays
Tuesday, November 23, 2021 - Sunday, January 9, 2022 - Giant Late 19th Century Silver Menorah
Description. The Met Giant Late 19th Century Silver Menorah came from Lviv, Ukraine on loan from the Moldovan Family Collection. This may be found in the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Galleries.
Tuesday, November 23, 2021 - Sunday, January 9, 2022 - Nativity Scene / Creche - No Lightings this year
HISTORICALLY - with lightings at 4.30 pm weekdays & added lightings at 5.30 & 6.30 on weekends
Description. The Met Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche [Nativity Scene] were collected primarily in the 1920's by Loretta Hines Howard who donated them 1964 and worked with artist Enrique Espinoza on its display, which may be found in the Medieval Sculptural Hall. This Manhattan holiday event is free with admission. Holiday events in Manhattan NYC.
Location. Located at 82nd and Fifth Avenue in the Medieval Sculpture Hall [Gallery 305]
Contact. www.metmuseum.org
OLD _ NOTE YEAR _ December 2019
Description - Holiday Events at the Met. The Met has a number of holiday events including an Irish Holiday December 13 at 7 pm, a Weimar Holiday December 14 at 7 pm, a Handel & Hayden Concert on December 20 at 7 pm.
* This year 2022 they're doing movies / use link below if interested in details
Museum of City of NY - Holiday Events Manhattan UES
OLD / NOTE YEAR _ Friday, December 17, 2021 beginning at 6 pm - Cocktails & Culture: Day-Glo December Fiesta
Description. This year they slimmed things down to one holiday event with a generic theme vs in the past where themes were culturally directed [see below].
HISTORICALLY - Family oriented events. Santa will visit the museum on Saturdays and you can have your photo taken with him [$14 kids / $20 adults]. The Kwanzaa celebration provides an opportunity to learn of the traditional culture of African Americans [free w/ admission]. The Hanukkah celebration looks at images of Jewish culture [free w/ admission]. Manhattan holiday events on the Upper East Side NYC.
Location. 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
Contact. https://www.mcny.org/
Hanukkah at the Jewish Museum in Manhattan NYC
Friday, December 15, 2023 from 6.30 to 9.30 pm - Shabbat Dinner
Description. Hosting of a traditional Shabbat Hanukkah dinner at the museum for young patrons. Admission. $100 / $150 / $280
Location. The Jewish Museum at 1109 5th Avenue at 92nd Street on the UES of Manhattan.
Contact. https://thejewishmuseum.org | 212.423.3200
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Upper West Side UWS Holiday Events - Manhattan
Upper West Side Holiday Lightings & Events or CLICK
Use link at top of page for - Upper West Side Holiday Markets on the UWS of Manhattan NYC
DISCONTINUED beginning 2022 _ Winters Eve at Lincoln Center - Holiday Events UWS NYC
Holiday Concerts & Holiday Entertainment on the Upper West Side
OLD _ NOTE DATE / YEAR _ Monday, November 29, 2021 from 5.30 - 9 pm
Description. There's Winters Eve at Lincoln Center on the UWS.
THIS DESCRIPTION IS FROM A PRIOR YEAR AS IN THE INITIAL POST THEY HAD NOT FINALIZED ACTIVITIES. The festivities begin at 5.30 pm with a tree lighting in Dante Park at Lincoln Center at Broadway & 63rd Street. Numerous talented musicians, sometimes with national reputations, will be there to perform at Lincoln Square’s sidewalks and public spaces.
From Columbus Circle to 70th Street along Broadway including Lincoln Square’s sidewalks and public spaces will be filled with musicians, processional groups, jugglers and stilt-walkers and over 30 of Lincoln Square’s restaurants and eateries will offer food tastings at nominal cost [$1 - $4] at three separate outdoor locations between 6 and 8.30 pm. Organized by Lincoln Square BID. Manhattan holiday events / tree lighting on the Upper West Side UWS NYC.
Location. From Columbus Circle to 70th Street along Broadway, including numerous plazas and spaces at Lincoln Center.
Contact. www.winterseve.nyc / www.lincolnsquarebid.org
CANNOT FIND INFO FOR 2023 AS OF 11/18/23 - KIND OF LIKE LAST YEAR - ALTHO THEY DID DO ONE IN 2022
Monday, December 6, 2021 at 5 pm - Lincoln Center Square Tree Lighting
Location. In Dante Park at 64th & Broadway on the UWS.
Contact. Lincoln Square BID / www.lincolnsquarebid.org
Tavern on the Green Tree Lighting Event Manhattan NYC
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at 5.30 - 8 pm
Description. Tree ligthing event that includes complimentary treats, drinks, live music and holiday carolers.
Location. At 67th Street & Central Park West on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
Contact. https://www.tavernonthegreen.com
Manhattan Holiday Event Light Up the Nights at Verdi Square
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 from 5 - 6 pm
Description. A small holiday celebration with the Broadway Mall Association organized with the help of NYC Parks. They light the tree and a local group sings some holiday songs. Manhattan holiday menorah and tree lighting events on the UWS of Manhattan NYC.
Location. At Verdi Square at Broadway between 72nd and 73rd Streets.
Contact. www.broadwaymall.org / www.nycparks.gov / www.friendsofverdisquare.org
The Riverside Church Candlelight Carol Service - UWS Holiday Events NYC
Christmas Celebrations & Holiday Things to do on the Upper West Side Manhattan
Sunday, December 17, 2023 from 4 to 6.30 pm
Description. The musical prelude begins at 3 pm. Then a candle light service with the full cultural theater developed over thousands of years by the Christian church. They describe it as thus, "... combines carillon, organ, harp, and all of the choirs of The Riverside Church and culminates in a ritual sharing of candlelight illuminating the Nave ...". Tickets are $35 / $45 / donation.
Location. At the Riverside Church Nave at 490 Riverside Drive between 120th and 122nd Streets on the Upper West Side. Manhattan holiday events on the Upper West Side NYC.
Contact. https://www.trcnyc.org/event/candlelight2023/
There Won't be any Winter Solstice Concert at St. John the Divine in 2023
Winter Solstice Concert at St John the Divine - UWS Holiday Events
Holiday Concerts on the Upper West Side Manhattan NYC
OLD / NOTE YEAR _ Thursday, Friday & Saturday, December 17, 18 & 19, 2021 beginning at 7 pm Friday, 7 pm & 10 pm Saturday & 2 pm Sunday - This year it's VIRTUAL / LIVE STREAM / ON DEMAND
Description. Paul Winter hosts the 42nd Winter Solstice concert at St John the Divine on the Upper West Side. The concert is an angelic classical music concert, gospel singer performance and dance group. Certain to cleanse the mind and soul prior to the New Year.
Admission. $20 this year [2021] for VIRTUAL EVENT. HISTORICALLY for the live event - Tickets $38 / $58 / $98 on up to $148 at websites noted below.
Location / Times. St. John the Divine Cathedral is located at 1029 Amsterdam Avenue on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
Contact. https://www.stjohndivine.org | https://solsticeconcert.com
Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History Manhattan NYC
Monday, November 20, 2023 - Monday, January 8, 2024 - Origami Holiday Tree aka Gems of the Museum
Description. ORIGAMI. Every year the American Museum of Natural History erects a tree and decorates it with origami made by New Yorkers. This year, the 52nd [started in 1970, but may have skipped a year (2020?)], the theme is probocideans on parade. BTW - probocideans are mammals similar to elephants.
Location. In the Grand Gallery on the first floor at the American Museum of Natural History at Central Park West and 79th Street on the Upper West Side.
Contact. https://www.amnh.org/
IV.
East Village / West Village Holiday Events Manhattan NYC
Holiday Events - Tree, Kwanzaa Candle, Menorah Lightings - East Village & West Village or
Use link at top of page for - East Village / West Village / LES Holiday Markets in Manhattan NYC
Washington Square Tree Lighting Event - Village NYC
Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 6 to 7 pm
Description. The Washington Square tree lighing event has been tradition since 1925. The event includes music by the Rob Susman Quartet and sing-along handbooks around the tree under the arch. Manhattan holiday tree lighting events in the Village NYC organized by the Washington Square Park Conservancy.
Sunday, December 24, 2023 from 5 - 6 pm - Christmas Eve Caroling
Description. On 12/24 there's a Washington Square Christmas Eve Caroling event in the same location at 5 pm.
Location. In Washington Square at 5th Avenue and Washington Square North [equal to about 7th Street / Waverly Place].
Contact. http://www.washingtonsquarenyc.org / www.washingtonsquareparkconservancy.org
* Tompkins Square Tree Lighting Event - East Village NYC
East Village Holiday Events in Tompkins Square NYC
Sunday, December 11, 2022 from 4 to 5 pm
Description. The 31st annual tree lighting celebrates park advocate Glenn Barnett who died of AIDS in 1992. The event features singers from the Theater for the New City and music by the Mandel & Lydon Trio. There will be some light food and drinks donated by Veselka and a 7th street cafe named C & B NYC.
Location. In Tompkins Square on the Main Lawn. Tompkins Square is located in the East Village between Avenues A & B between 7th and 10th Street.
Contact. www.luckonb.com / www.nycparks.gov
Holiday Events in the East Village - Ukrainian Museum in Manhattan NYC
Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 7 to 9 pm - Decolonizing the Ukrainian Language
Description. The event is a lecture.
HISTORICALLY. In the past the Ukrainian Museum hosted a Christmas Bazaar for Shoppers in the East Village NYC. The museum described their holiday market as thus, "... cassettes, books, handmade unique Christmas tree decorations, art works by contemporary artists, embroidered and woven textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and woodwork. Browse the wide selection of beautifully illustrated childrens story books from Ukraine, art books, Museum exhibition catalogues, greeting cards. Buy tasty homebaked Christmas breads: makivnyky, medivnyky and tsvibaky. Proceeds benefit The Ukrainian Museum ...". The market has been on hiatus from before the war and possibly since before the pandemic. Stay tuned.
Location. At 222 E 6th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues in the East Village of Manhattan.
Contact. https://www.theukrainianmuseum.org/ / Tel - 212.228.0110.
V.
SoHo, Tribeca, LES, Bowery & Downtown Holiday Events - Manhattan NYC
Use link at top of page for - SoHo & Tribeca holiday markets in Manhattan NYC
NYSE 100th Annual NYSE Tree Lighting Event - Downtown Manhattan NYC
Thursday, November 30, 2023 from 3 pm - 6 pm - Tree is lit up just after the closing bell at 4.15 pm
Description. The 100th Annual NYSE tree lighting. There will be multiple performances by local performers and hot cocoa. Free and open to the public.
Location. In front of the NYSE Stock Exchange at 11 Wall Street at Broad Street in Manhattan NYC.
Contact. https://www.nyse.com
ADD PHOTO
South Street Seaport Holiday Tree Lighting Events
Seaport Winterland Holiday Event Manhattan NYC
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 begins at 6 pm, lighting followed by performances, 7 pm after party at the ice rink
Description. This tree lighting is being held at the South Street Seaport including hot cocoa, cookies and photos with Santa. There are a number of holiday related activities planned in the district during this time period. The Hester Street Market will also be open from 5 pm - 9.30 pm. The tradition began in 1983. Manhattan holiday events / Christmas tree lighting at the South Street Seaport in Manhattan NYC.
There's also a Gingerbread installation that I think will be there through the holidays - use url below to learn more.
Location. At Water & Fulton Streets. There are after party activities in the district, including a Gingerbread erection, which is being featured this year at the South Street Seaport. For details use their url to go to their website.
Contact. https://theseaport.nyc
Brookfield Place Holiday Lights Downtown NYC
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 - January 6, 2024 from 8 am to 10 pm - Light Shows thru January 1, 2024
Description. This is a relatively new holiday event which includes a light installation. The Luminaries light installation will be on display in the Winter Garden at Brookfield Place through January 6, 2024 from 8 am to 10 pm. This is a Downtown Manhattan holiday tree / menorah lighting event.
Location. At 230 Vesey Street in Brookfield Place in Downtown Manhattan.
Contact. https://bfplny.com/luminaries / FB - https://www.facebook.com/BFPLny
Trinity Church / Wall Street - Handel's Messiah Holiday Concert NYC
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, December 13, 14 & 15, 2023 beginning at 7 pm
Description. Handel's Messiah will be performed in the historic church. The Trinity Church website says the tickets have sold out, but there's a waiting list. FYI - this is one that must be booked early. Tickets cost $35 - $110.
Location. At 89 Broadway at Rector Street in Downtown Manhattan NYC.
Contact. https://trinitywallstreet.org
Museum for Jewish Heritage in Battery Park City - Yiddish Festival
Saturday, December 23 - Thursday, December 28, 2023 - Yiddish Festival
Description. There's a Yiddish Festival at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Downtown NYC. They describe the festival as, "... Yiddish New York -- the nation's largest festival of Yiddish music, culture and language ...". Tickets range from $25 - $570. Holiday events and things to do in Manhattan NYC.
Location. Museum for Jewish Heritage at 36 Battery Place in Robert Wagner Park.
Contact. https://www.yiddishnewyork.com
TBD
Zuccotti Park Holiday Lights Celebration
OLD _ NOTE DATE _ YEAR _ Thursday, December 3, 2017 from 5.30 - 6.30 pm
Location. At Zuccotti Park at Broadway & Liberty Street.
Description. There will be music by the Manhattan Dolls and Metropolitan Klezmer and treats. They illuminate Zuccotti Park at Broadway & Liberty Street with thousands of lights.
Contact.
VI.
Harlem & Washington Heights Holiday Events Manhattan NYC
Christmas Tree, Menorah, Kwanzaa Lightings
Use link at top of page for - Manhattan Holiday Markets NYC & Holiday Shopping Manhattan NYC
Dana Discovery Center Tree Lighting Event Central Park NYC
Holiday Events in Upper Manhattan, Upper East Side & Harlem Meer
Thursday, November 30, 2023 from 5.30 - 6.30 pm
Description. This event includes a visit by Santa and friends, carol singing on the plaza and free hot cocoa and cookies. The event ends when they light a flotilla of Christmas trees on the Harlem Meer [a little nearby pond]. This Manhattan holiday event is near to both the Upper East Side & Harlem. It began in 1998.
Location. This Manhattan holiday event is held at the Charles Dana Discovery Center which is just inside the park at 110th Street between 5th Avenue & Lenox in Harlem on the northern perimter of Central Park.
Contact. https://www.centralparknyc.org
Harlem School of the Arts - Manhattan Holiday Events NYC
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 8, 9 & 10, 2023 from 3 to 6 pm, 10 am to 2.30 pm and 12 noon to 2 pm, respectively - St. Nick on St. Nick's Extravaganza - This is a toy collection drive
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 15, 16 & 17, 2023 beginning at 7 pm Fri, 3 pm & 7 pm Sat, and 3 pm on Sun - Home for the Holidays
Description. They describe the performance as, "... Featuring the Harlemettes, and students from the HSA Dance, Music, Theater, and Media and Design departments, accompanied by drummer Eric Brown and bassist Immanuel Williams ..." Holiday events in Harlem near the UWS, Inwood and Washington Heights. Tickets $30.
Location. At 645 St. Nicholas Avenue in West Harlem north of the Upper West Side. Manhattan holiday events and things to do in NYC.
Contact. https://hsanyc.org | 212.926.4100
Hudson Christmas Tree Lighting - Manhattan Holiday Event in Riverside Park NYC
Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 4.30 – 6 pm
Description. This holiday event includes live music, dancing, decoration-making, and hot chocolate while supplies last. Check the SOH Twitter feed or visit nyc.gov/parks/soh 2 hours before the event. Held by the Riverside Park Conservancy. Manhattan Christmas tree lighting events & holiday things to do in Harlem near the UWS, Inwood and Washington Heights neighborhoods in Manhattan NYC.
Location. At West Harlem Piers Park at West 125th & Marginal Street in West Harlem near the Upper West Side.
Contact. https://riversideparknyc.org | 212-870-3089 / www.nycparks.org
Black Spectrum Theatre Holiday Performance Outside of Jamaica Queens NYC
Wednesday, December 20, 2023 beginning at 7 pm - Twas the Night Before Kwanzaa [comedy]
Description. This is a Christmas holiday performance by a renowned African American theater company about Kwanzaa and a kinara which is a seven branched candleholder used during Kwanzaa. NOTE the performance isn't at the Black Spectrum Theatre - see below.
Location. Black Spectrum Theater is located at 177th Street and Baisley Blvd in St. Albans Queens, near the southeast end of Roy Wilkins Park. BUT this Show is being performed at the Schomburg Center at 135th Street and Malcolm X Blvd in Harlem in Manhattan.
Contact. http://www.blackspectrum.com | Tel 718.723.1800
* Apollo Theater in Harlem - Kwanzaa Holiday Special NYC
Sunday, December 26, 2021 beginning at 7 pm - Kwanzaa Performance
Description. The Kwanzaa performance features a number of talented musicians and performers. This Harlem Kwanzaa holiday event takes place in Manhattan, but is shown VIRTUALLY.
Admission. Free / Pay what you wish.
Location. This year the peformance is being shown digitally - use the website below to obtain a ticket / the link. HISTORICALLY - At 253 West 125th off Fredrick Douglas Blvd in Harlem. Holiday Events in Harlem in Manhattan NYC.
Contact. www.apollotheater.org
* Holiday Concerts at the United Palace - Alicia Keyes in NYC
Holiday Concerts near the UWS, Washington Heights & Inwood
* Saturday, December 10, 2022 - Doors open 6 pm - Show begins 7 pm
Description. The holiday concert. The tickets are free and already sold out, but it may be a very, very long shot that some folks don't show.
Admission. Tickets were free.
* Sunday, December 25, 2022 - Chanukah Performance
Description. A holiday concert performance by an Israeli singer. The tickets range from $60 - $500.
Location. At 4140 Broadway at 175th Street in Washington Heights. Holiday events and holiday concerts in Washington Heights in Manhattan NYC.
Contact. https://www.unitedpalace.org / Tel - 212.568.6700.
New York City NYC Holiday Shopping & Holiday Events NYC - Related Links
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