Travel Tips

Where to see the most magical Christmas trees in New York this year

Discover where to see the most magical Christmas trees in New York this year! From the Rockefeller Center to Bryant Park, along with some hidden gems, plan your festive NYC getaway with event info and insider advice.

It’s the time of year when New York transforms into a magical winter wonderland with glittering lights, towering evergreens, and festive music on every corner.

With iconic trees like the Rockefeller Center already up and more spectacular displays being raised across the city as we speak, there’s a real sense of excitement in the air. So if you’ve been pondering a Christmas trip to NYC, this is your sign to book it.

Of course, once your plans are set, the next big question is: “Where are the Christmas trees in New York?”

Well, read on as we’ll show you exactly where to go.

In this article

The 5 Best Christmas trees to see in New York

Here are the best Christmas trees in New York and the most magical festive events you won’t want to miss this year!

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Source: Shutterstock

The famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is already up, but the official lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 3rd between 7 and 10 pm.

On this evening, the 50,000 lights and dazzling Swarovski star turn on, attracting around 1 million spectators and filling Center Plaza with festive cheer and sparkle.

But don’t worry if you’re not in New York for the lightning ceremony. The tree stays lit daily from 5 am to midnight, with a special 24-hour illumination on Christmas Eve, before being taken down around mid-January.

While visiting, don’t miss skating at the nearby ice rink or taking in the view from Top of the Rock, one of the most popular things to do in New York!

Insider tip: As the most famous Christmas tree in New York, Rockefeller gets busy leading up to Christmas. So go early in the morning (when it’s still dark) to avoid the crowds and snap the best photos.

Bryant Park Winter Village Christmas Tree

Source: Shutterstock

The Bryant Park Winter Village tree is a stunning 45-meter-tall white fir that sets the stage for the popular Winter Village, Manhattan’s winter wonderland.

With a charming backdrop of the open-air Christmas market stalls, cozy food kiosks, and the adjacent skating rink under city lights, it’s one of the most festive spots in the city.

The annual tree lighting show takes place on Tuesday, December 2nd, at 5:30 pm, with world-class ice skating performances happening as the lights turn on. It then stays lit until the Winter Village closes on March 1st.

Insider tip: Visit in the evening to soak in the magic of the market lit up. Grab a hot cider and skate under the tree’s twinkle.

Lincoln Center Christmas Tree

If you want to see the most elegant Christmas tree in New York, head to Lincoln Center!

Set against the backdrop of the world-famous Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, and the symphony halls, it exudes a refined, grown-up festive vibe — because who said Christmas is just for kids?!

The tree’s lights are set to turn on during the magical lights ceremony on December 4th at 4:30 pm, accompanied by choirs and live music.

Insider tip: Pair your visit with a performance of The Nutcracker or an evening concert.

Washington Square Park Christmas Tree

The Washington Square Park Tree is one of the most iconic Christmas trees in New York, situated directly under the Washington Square Arch in Greenwich Village.

As New York’s 2nd-longest-running tree lighting ceremony, you can expect a huge turnout and lively, community-driven atmosphere when the tree is turned on December 13th.

The ceremony kicks off at 5 pm, when local musicians and carolers gather to sing festive songs beneath the twinkling lights. If you’re on a solo trip to New York, you’ll particularly love the warm, communal holiday vibe here.

Insider tip: If you’re lucky enough to be in NYC on Christmas Eve, head here at 5 pm for the annual Caroling session. It’s a great way to enjoy the city’s festive energy and community spirit.

Seaport District Christmas Tree

If you’re looking for a quieter festive event, head to the holiday tree lighting ceremony at The Seaport on December 2nd. From 6 to 8 pm, you can enjoy festive music, hot chocolate, and Christmas sweet treats, without the crowds of Rockefeller or Bryant Park.

The historic cobblestone streets and river views give the Seaport Christmas Tree a serene waterfront vibe, making it a fantastic choice for families.

Insider tip: If you’re visiting with kids, don’t miss the Santa meet-and-greet during the tree lighting celebration.

Stay connected while Christmas tree hunting in New York

If you’re heading to NYC this festive season, plan ahead by grabbing a Holafly eSIM before you go.

With unlimited data and fast, reliable connection throughout the Big Apple, you can enjoy Christmas tree hunting without worrying about getting lost and missing that magical tree lighting moment!
Get your Holafly eSIM for New York City here.