Undoubtedly one of the best cities for holiday cheer, NYC is never short of seasonal activities throughout the month of December. Between the unprecedented shopping and seasonal sights, a New York holiday can be equal parts joyous and headache inducing courtesy of 5th Avenue crowds, the Saks Fifth Avenue swarm, and selfie stick madness surrounding the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Though the majority of self-respecting city dwellers steer clear of the city’s holiday spectacles, many still crave a festive outing or two with friends or an opportunity to impress wide-eyed visitors. Ahead, 5 festive activities to check out in NYC right now from ice skating to curated shopping and beyond.
Festive For The Holidays
Christmas Tree Market at The Standard, East Village
Located in the South Garden of The Standard, East Village through December 22nd, peruse the Christmas Tree Market whilst enjoying a winter cocktail and complimentary hand-warmer in the form of chestnuts and other seasonal treats. Shop Crest Hardware's trees, wreaths and swag from Williamsburg with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Lower East Side Girls Club. Also available? A tree delivery service plus two tickets to skate at The Rink at The Standard, High Line with every tree purchase.
The Rink at The Standard, High Line
For a wintry night out, The Rink at The Standard, High Line is back with sophisticated après-ski vibes that transport you to the slopes of St. Moritz and Gstaad. With hours catering to late night adventures, cozy up under faux fur blankets in the Skate Shack or Living Room bistro and enjoy seasonal food and drinks post-skate.
goop mrkt at The Shops at Columbus Circle
For the best in curated holiday shopping, the goop mrkt holiday pop-up shop is it. Located in the Time Warner Center through December 24th, you’ll find giftables for the homemaker, style guru or beauty maven in a cozy, downtown-meets-uptown space designed in collaboration with famed interior designers Roman & Williams. Also available? The exclusive Valentino x goop collection and a curated assortment of hand-made goods by Roman & Williams.
Lauren Lovette in The Nutcracker
Nothing feels more quintessentially Christmas than seeing New York City Ballet's iconic rendition of The Nutcracker. This year, catch the company's youngest (and pint-size) principal dancer, Lauren Lovette dance the coveted role of the Sugar Plum Fairy through January.
Miracle on 9th Street
Get your holiday buzz on at this month-long holiday pop-up, known as the cocktail bar Mace January through November. Featuring holiday-themed cocktails by Experimental Cocktail Club vet Nico de Soto, the bar is decked with tons of tinsel, a Christmas tree, and Santa motifs aplenty, open through December 23.
