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The Best of New York · Seasonal · Christmas

The best Christmas shows in New York City

Updated September 2026. 8 places.

As someone who’s enjoyed more than two dozen holiday shows in NYC firsthand, I thought it might be helpful to share my personal list of favorites. From delightful family-friendly shows to unusual spectacles unique to NYC, here’s a quick roundup of the best Christmas shows in New York City from a local’s perspective.

Back by popular demand for 2025.I’m sharing the personalized 4 Day Itinerary I created for my own family and friends on how to enjoy the city’s most iconic holiday experiences as efficiently as possible in 4 days (a comprehensive 30 page guide Five years in the making, the guide was created for the people I love most, so it’s full of activities, restaurants and neighborhoods I personally visit and enjoy). If you’re interested, you can find more information here (limited to 50 sales in 2025).

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best Christmas shows in New York City, 2026

  1. Joy of Christmas at St. John the DivineTheater · Morningside HeightsHowever, if you’re lucky enough to get admitted, you’ll be in for one of the best Christmas performances in New York City.
  2. The Nutcracker at the Lincoln CenterTheater · Upper West SideI consider The Nutcracker a must-see New York City holiday show.
  3. Unsilent Night at Washington Square ParkEvent · Greenwich Village
  4. A Christmas Carol. The MusicalTheater · Greenwich Village
  5. Amateur Night Holiday Special at the ApolloTheater · HarlemThe venue hosts exciting performances year-round, but the Amateur Night Holiday Special is one of the most popular Christmas shows in NYC.
  6. Marky Ramone’s Holiday BlitzkriegEvent · Venues vary by yearIt’s definitely a unique NYC Christmas show to consider for anyone that prefers the unconventional path.
  7. Saks Fifth Avenue Light ShowEvent · MidtownOf all the impressive lights you’re bound to see while celebrating the holidays in New York City, nothing tops the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show.
  8. The Rockettes Christmas SpectacularTheater · MidtownIt’s hard to think of a more iconic Christmas Show in New York City at this point.

On the map

Where they are

6 neighborhoods, Greenwich Village and Midtown most of all.

Greenwich Village

Midtown

Harlem

Morningside Heights

Upper West Side

Venues vary by year

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 10 Best Christmas Performances in New York City (2026 Guide).