New York has always been a party to go to, but in the festive month of December you get the real magical Christmas feeling. Hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions have all been transformed with the most beautiful Christmas decorations. All five boroughs of the city that never sleeps show why Christmas is so special in this city. From the best places for our real Christmas fans to shopping on Fifth Avenue, these are the tips for an ultimate Christmas feeling in New York.
For the real Christmas fan:
* The world famous Rockefeller Christmas tree shines like never before. The beautiful decorations and illuminations can be seen at the base of Rockefeller Center until January 7, 2017.
* Back with a vengeance; The Rockets! This iconic group can be seen in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular from November 11 to January 2. The extravagant costumes feature new dance numbers as well as traditional favorites.
* No ballet is more reminiscent of Christmas than the Nutcracker. The New York City Ballet can be admired in New York until December 31.
* During the entire month of December, with the exception of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, there is the possibility to book 'a Slice of Brooklyn's Christmas Lights Tours'. The tour shows the most beautiful places in Brooklyn in the Christmas spirit and gives a unique picture of this borough.
* Ice skating in New York cannot be missing from this Christmas list. There are also plenty of places where you can show your skills; at the Rockefeller Center, at Bryant Park, at Brookfield Place and the famous ice rink in Central Park.
* The record-winning Gingerbread Lane at New York Hall of Science is back again this year! From November 11 to January 15, about 1,000 handmade gingerbread houses and entire villages are displayed here.
* Want to escape from all the avenues and enjoy the New York skyline? The Empire State Building, One World Observatory or Top of the Rock are all open on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day.
For the culture lover:
* No less than 12 Broadway shows also play the stars of heaven on Christmas Day. A small selection of the huge offer; Cats, Chicago, The Color Purple, Jersey Boys and Wicked.
* If you like jazz, be sure to hit the historic jazz club Blue Note New York on December 24 or 25 for Christmas brunch and evening concerts.
For the last-minute shopper:
* Many renowned department stores, including Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdales, Lord &Taylor and Tiffany &Co, have specially decorated windows during the holiday season and are definitely worth a visit.
* The most famous shopping street in the world; Fifth Avenue! The mecca for shopaholics, among all these beautiful brands and shops you will certainly find the perfect gift for under the Christmas tree.
* When we talk about the cozy month of December, Christmas markets cannot be missed in this list. New York has plenty of options such as the Christmas Market at Bryant Park, Union Square, Columbus Circle and Grand Central Terminal. These markets are a favorite with tourists and New Yorkers alike.
* Fan of luxury products? Then travel to Lower Manhattan, where Brookfield Place opened last year. Here you will find the most beautiful items from Ermenegildo, Zegna, Gucci, Tory Burch and Salvatore Ferragamo. The Westfield World Trade Center is also an excellent place for a combination of beautiful shops, fine restaurants, culture, art and architecture.
For the ultimate Christmas dinner:
* Brunch in New York is a must and Tavern on the Green in Central Park is the specialist. During the Christmas season you can enjoy the Traditional Tavern on the Green Christmas dinner.
* Red Rooster Harlem is the place to be for a typical American dish. Popular with the locals, good food and friendly to your wallet.
* The Lambs Club presents a special brunch every Saturday in December and on Christmas Day. Fully catered for with the tastiest products of the season and a live Christmas band.