15 Family Fun December Events In NYC

December means its officially the holidays and there isn’t a more festive city than NYC. People truly come from all over the world to see New York City during the holidays. There are so many exciting events being offered through out the month of December. Its an amazing time to regroup as a family and spend true quality time.

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday month!

Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting

I’m not sure I can truly think about the holidays in New York City without thinking of this iconic Christmas Tree. Every year I look forward to the lighting of this tree, and taking the kids ice skating at its very popular ice rink.  this years tree lighting is on December 4th and is always open to the public. Its a festive New York tradition that has been around for over 8 decades.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

George Balanchine’s Nutcracker is a true NYC holiday classic. This should be one everyones holiday bucket list, a must see! Ever since I can remember The Nutcracker has been a magical experience and now I get to experience it with my own family and my little ballerina Siella. I got annually with my girls, my sister, and my mom. Its one of my very favorite Christmas traditions.

The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular

Another one of our favorite Christmas traditions is this incredibly festive and exciting show. Every year I take all three kids as I think its such a NYC classic. Radio City Music Hall transforms into an immersive winter wonderland. This is a show that really creates lasting NYC memories.

The Butterfly Conservatory

The American Museum of Natural History is always a great family idea! Let alone when we need to head indoors and warm up from the winter chill. This annual exhibit features 500 free flying butterflies in a lush tropical garden! Children will learn all about the different “families” of butterflies being featured. and how to identify their difference. This exhibit is incredibly thrilling and educational! The Butterfly Conservatory runs until May 25th so we all have plenty of time to visit again and again.

Winter at Industry City

Industry City has quickly become an amazing destination for families on the weekend. The winter activities being offered at Industry City include an ice rink, seasonal crafting, a holiday market, holiday acapella performances, a visit from Buddy the Elf, and so much more. Industry City also year round has one of the best food courts. If tons of delicious eats and holiday events everyone is bound to head home with a full belly and heart!

TWA Hotel Runway Rink

 

Time travel to  1958 with this super exciting winter pop-up! The TWA hotel is opening their very own ice rink right on their tarmac! Activities include an ice show, a cocktail lounge, tons of festive treats and snacks, etc… This ice rink is easily the most unique being offered this year and I cant wait to experience it for myself.

Yeti! Set! Snow!

Back by popular demand is this super fun marionette holiday show! Enjoy the sweet story of a little named Widget and her friend Twig who on the first snow day of winter run into a friendly Yeti and his pet cat Tinsel Kitty! Located in the heart of Central Park this makes for the perfect holiday afternoon activity! Also check out their super fun puppet making workshops!

Yayoi Kusama Exhibit at David Zwirner

Head over to the David Zwirner gallery in Chelsea to experience the magic of Yayoi Kusama. This exhibit and artist continues to thrill me. Im always SO excited to know her exciting exhibits are back in town. There really isn’t quite anything like walking through her creative artful designs! The show is first come first serve and often has a line, so hurrry oover because it only runs until Dec 14th and this isn’t something anyone should miss!

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights

Bronx Zoo is hosting their annual light show.  Enjoy the animal sculptures, animal lanterns, carolers, a holiday train, costumed characters, and even an ice carving competition! Its a one stop shop for a fun filled holiday evening. This year the whole festival is powered by LED lights making the event greener than other years.

TomatoLand

This immersive pop-up is so thrilling and exciting your kids will be begging to go back! Dr. Tomato has brought his hometown of Tomatoland to help teach our children how to protect our environment and planet. Guests will walk through 7 different rooms featuring 20+ photoshoot and interactive spots like the package zone, noodle swing, ketchup pool & more!

Hello Panda Festival

This is a holiday must in NYC! Hello Panda festival is the largest light festival in North America! It all takes place within the 20 acres of Citi Field featuring 120 giant lanterns, 6 giant warm tents, a holiday market with 100+ vendors, a ball pit, musical performances, 60 international food vendors, and more. Definitely a magical holiday event!

Plum & Honey Baking Classes

Refine your baking skills with Plum & Honey’s super delicious baking classes! I really like the idea of this activity of a one on one mommy and me date! I know my kids love getting involved in the kitchen and I definitely know they love baked goods. This is the perfect activity to spend some quality time learning together. Class options range between macaroons, cookies, gingerbread, Hanukkah desserts, Buche de Noel, all of the best holiday sweets!

A Charlie Brown Christmas In Brooklyn

This super sweet live show is back for its 12th year. A Charlie Brown Christmas is a national holiday favorite and this theatrical show brings it alive for local guests. Initially started at Penn State the show has found its home in Brooklyn and gathers audiences year after year. Performances run 3 times a day on weekends until December 15th.

Lumino Light Festival 

I have been waiting for this festival for months! Im so beyond excited to take my kids to this very exciting and new light festival. With their immersive light wonderland, workshops, themed nights, a holiday market, and more its bound to be the most festive way to kick off the holiday season. Festival runs November 23rd to January 5th and is a ticketed event that will sell fast.

SuperReal At Cipriani

Enjoy a 45 minute walk through an illuminated kaleidoscope! Children will witness Cipriani’s old architecture turn into an immersive and playful fantasy world. The experience will feature 5 visual concepts come to live through projection mapping. This is an event the pushes the way we see technology and entertainment.

 

We would love to hear your favorites! Happy Holidays!