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The Best of New York · Seasonal · Christmas

The best free things to do at Christmas in New York City

Updated September 2026. 16 places.

It’s no secret that the Big Apple is expensive, so finding free Christmas activities in New York City Admiring the interior is a no-brainer, so swing by if the doors are open is a priority for locals and tourists alike. Something about the holidays makes it tempting to flirt with poor financial decisions, thankfully there are plenty of exciting free things to do during Christmas in NYC. Let’s cover everything you need to know!

Note from Antonina about 2025 Christmas Itineraries. Some longtime readers have asked if I’ll be offering the custom 4-day itineraries that sold out last year.

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

Best free things to do at Christmas in New York City, 2026

  1. Dyker Heights Christmas LightsStreet · Dyker Heights, BrooklynWhile technically you'll need to swipe your subway card, the dazzling displays warrant mention our list of fun free things to do during Christmas in NYC.
  2. Fifth Avenue Window DisplaysStreet · Fifth AvenueThe friendly competition gives spectators a chance to enjoy one of New York's top Christmas activities for free.
  3. Macy's at Herald SquareStore · Herald SquareDuring the holidays, the famous department store plays host to some of the best Christmas decorations in New York City.
  4. Radio City Music Hall Christmas TreeLandmark · MidtownThe instantly recognizable marquee is topped with a 70-foot tree during the holidays.
  5. Rockefeller Christmas TreeLandmark · MidtownConsidered the most famous Christmas Tree in New York City, a new conifer is selected every year with an impressive requirement.
  6. Saint Patrick's CathedralLandmark · MidtownAttending mass is one of the most unique free things to do during Christmas in NYC.
  7. Union Square Holiday MarketMarket · Union SquareHowever, if you're looking for free things to do during Christmas in NYC then you simply can't skip it.
  8. Bryant ParkRink · MidtownBut what really earns Bryant Park a spot on our list of the best free things to do during Christmas in NYC is the 17,000-square foot open to the public for free.
  9. Central ParkPark · Central ParkCentral Park is downright magical during the first snowfall of the year.
  10. Holiday Movie Locations TourLandmark · ManhattanFilm buffs can agree that seeing filming locations firsthand is one of the best free things to do during Christmas in NYC.
  11. Holiday Nostalgia TrainOther · CitywideI mean, riding in vintage trains is the last thing you'd expect to find on a list of free things to do during Christmas in New York City.
  12. Lotte New York Palace Christmas TreeLandmark · Midtown
  13. NYSE Tree LightingEvent · Financial DistrictA stark composition to the gray-washed buildings that define the Financial District, the brilliant tree at the NYSE is a sight for soar eyes.
  14. Saks 5th Avenue Light ShowOther · Fifth AvenueUnfortunately, the 2024 Light Show has been cancelled.
  15. Santaland at Macy'sOther · Herald SquareExperiencing Macy's Santaland is a must for anyone visiting New York City on a budget with kids.
  16. Unsilent NightEvent · West Village to East VillageInstead of a soothing song sung by a children's choir, Unsilent Night is chaotic.
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 19 Best Free Things to Do in New York City During Christmas.