The Best Things To Do In NYC This Week
Alright, folks of the Big Apple, buckle up! You might think you know what’s going on in this concrete jungle, but let’s be honest: in a city where squirrels engage in theatrical standoffs and the subway musicians could easily win ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, there’s always another layer to peel. Dive headfirst into our hilariously insightful guide on “Things to do in NYC this week“. From the intriguingly odd to the fantastically sublime, NYC’s weekly offerings are a roller coaster you didn’t know you needed.
And if you’re expecting a calm, straightforward list…. well, you clearly haven’t looked at my article with its own personal twist! This week you should definitely join the lightning ceremony of the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and marvel at the beautiful Dyker Heights Christmas Lights! Let the weekly NYC adventure begin!
My tip: No plans for the weekend, yet? Check out my list of the best things to do in NYC this weekend!
NYC Events This Week
Dive into my curated listicle of free, fun, cheap, and family-friendly events that transform NYC into an exhilarating playground for everyone!
Things To Do In NYC This Week
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01
Join the Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lightning Ceremony on Wednesday, November 29
Other Events in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The Christmas Tree in New York at Rockefeller Center is probably the most famous Christmas tree in the city. The illumination of this tree is celebrated at the Christmas Tree Lighting in New York. After the official opening, the Christmas season in New York officially begins!
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02
See the lightning of the Wall Street Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Financial District
The Christmas tree on Wall Street looks back on a long tradition: this year it can be seen for the 100th time. Not only is the tree itself festively decorated – the building of the New York Stock Exchange also looks beautiful, as it is illuminated from the outside in Christmas colors.
The 100th Annual Tree Lighting will take place on November 30, 2023, from 3 pm – 6 pm.
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03
Marvel at the beautiful Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Bus Tour in Dyker HeightsOur Highlight
This tour through the Christmas Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge in Brooklyn is one of the most popular and most booked tours at Christmas time in New York. In front of the Row NYC Hotel (45th Street and 8th Avenue) you will be picked up by a bus and drive over one of New York’s bridges to Brooklyn – you will have a wonderful view of the New York skyline. Once in Dyker Heights, you will be guided by a guide through the main streets with the most beautiful Christmas lights. The next stop is the Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO (about 25 minutes) – the tour ends at Bryant Park Winter Village with the famous ice skating rink. The Dyker Heights tour is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit!
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04
Visit Macy's Santaland
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
There’s nothing you can’t do in New York City. During the holidays, you should set up a date with Santa Claus at Macy’s and share your wish list. Santaland at Macy’s is a whole experience with a meet & greet with Santa in the end. Both kids and adults come to Santaland to talk to the big guy. It’s a special thing to do in New York on Christmas Eve.
Every year, Macy’s Santaland is the main highlight of Macy’s Christmas celebrations. The history of Santaland goes back to 1861 when the store advertised that Santa Claus would come to stock their counters with the finest and most special Christmas gifts. Fast forward to today, close to 200,000 Santa fans are visiting Santaland at Macy’s every season.
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05
Bryant Park Winter Village
Christmas Market in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
Starting in October (and running through March), it is time once again for the best winter market in New York City to open its doors. The Winter Village in Bryant Park is not only the largest Christmas market in the city but also by far the nicest on account of its adjacent ice rink and places to shop and eat. This along with its amazing location among all the skyscrapers makes for an amazing Christmas experience.
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06
Visit the Union Square Holiday Market
Christmas Market in Gramercy
Union Square is proud to host over 25 years of holiday markets and this year will be no exception. The market’s layout was initially modeled after European Christmas markets and despite some changes since its original inception, the Union Square Holiday Market still mirrors its cousins across the Atlantic pretty closely. It is one of the largest Christmas markets in New York and a holiday tradition for any visitor.
ENJOY A MULLED WINE HERE – IT’S A GERMAN STAPLE!
At Union Square, you can browse through winding rows of stalls with live music playing in the background. A total of 100 red-and-wite-striped booths display their unique wares and artisanal foods at this Christmas market in NYC. The Union Square Market boats more than 150 registered vendors, both local and international, that are carefully selected. That’s not all, however. Union Square Holiday Market has grown significantly over the years and now also features a kid’s art studio and a warming station for the frostbitten among you. There’s no way you will leave this holiday market without a full belly and a happy smile.
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07
Empire State Building
Building in Midtown Manhattan
The Empire State Building is the most famous attraction in New York City. When most people think of NYC, this landmark is usually the first thing that pops into their head. It’s an iconic skyscraper and has been arguably the face of the city. It should definitely be a part of every trip to the city since it features two observation decks! Here’s a fun fact: The Empire State Building even has its own zip code! (NY 10118)
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08
Walk the wintry Brooklyn Bridge
Building in DumboOur Highlight
The Brooklyn Bridge is an official landmark of the city, which you should not miss even in winter. Make sure to walk across the impressive bridge and enjoy the unique view across the East River to Brooklyn in the clear winter air. And while you’re on the bridge, take a stroll to Brooklyn Bridge Park.
GET A WARMING COFFEE AND ENJOY THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS!
Due to the cold wind, it can get really icy on the Brooklyn Bridge in winter. The best time to try your luck on some warming sunshine is around noon on the bridge.
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09
Watch a Broadway Show
Broadway Show in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
This touching musical tells the story of Simba, who has a difficult path to the throne ahead of him and must assert himself against his evil uncle Scar. It is about fear, courage, the meaning of life and that you must never give up. Based on the Disney film, this musical developed into a Broadway hit and impresses hundreds of visitors every day. When it comes to musicals, The Lion King is as good as it gets!
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10
Enjoy a delicious steak in NYC!
Steak Restaurant in Theatre District
Bacall’s Family Steakhouse is one of the most highly regarded restaurants in NYC, known for its delicious steaks and romantic ambiance. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Bacall’s is the perfect spot for a special dinner with your loved one or a friend.
The restaurant offers a wide selection of succulent steaks, including filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, all cooked to perfection and served with your choice of sides. In addition to the steaks, Bacall’s also has a selection of seafood dishes, including lobster tail and pan-seared salmon, as well as vegetarian options.
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