Holiday festivities run from late November through early January, with peak weekends in December. Reserve key experiences early (shows, markets, Santaland time slots), layer up for chilly mornings and evenings, and build in warm-up breaks between outdoor sights.

Can’t-Miss Family Events (2025)

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree — Lighting on Wednesday, December 3, 2025
See NYC’s most famous tree twinkle to life during the live Christmas in Rockefeller Center broadcast; the tree remains on view through mid‑January. It’s about a 12–15‑minute walk from the hotel.

Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular (Rockettes) — Nov 6, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026
High‑energy precision dance, live orchestra, and special 100th‑anniversary touches this season. Multiple daytime performances work well for young kids.

NYBG Holiday Train Show — Nov 15, 2025 – Jan 11, 2026
G‑scale model trains zip past miniature NYC landmarks crafted from natural materials—an annual kid favorite in the Bronx (subway or Metro‑North from Grand Central).

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights — Select nights Nov 21, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026 (Sensory‑Friendly Night: Thu, Dec 4)
Walk‑through lantern trails, entertainment, treats, and photo ops. Book early for weekends; check the calendar for the sensory‑friendly evening.

AMNH Origami Holiday Tree — Opens Mon, Nov 24, 2025
A dazzling tree decorated with 1,000+ folded figures—great paired with a museum visit on the Upper West Side.

Macy’s Santaland at Herald Square — Late November; free timed reservations required
Meet Santa in an immersive holiday village. Reserve a complimentary time slot online in advance to minimize waiting.

Festive Fun Steps from the Hotel

Bryant Park Winter Village (Holiday Shops + free‑admission ice rink)
Midtown’s winter hub with 170+ vendors, après‑ski‑style food & drink, and a free‑admission rink (paid skate rental). Open from late October; the Holiday Shops typically close in early January while the rink continues into late winter.

Ice‑Skating at Wollman Rink (Central Park)
An iconic backdrop for family photos; rentals, lessons, and extended holiday hours in season.

FAO Schwarz (Rockefeller Center)
The legendary toy store—often with a Toy Soldier opening moment—pairs perfectly with a visit to the Rockefeller Center Tree.

Holiday Markets Kids Love
• Union Square Holiday Market — Nov 13 – Dec 24, 2025 (closes at 4 pm on 12/24; closed Thanksgiving).
• Columbus Circle Holiday Market — Dec 2 – Dec 31, 2025 (closed 12/25; closes 4 pm on 12/31).
• Bryant Park Holiday Shops — part of Winter Village (run through early January; rink continues into late winter).

Bright Lights Adventure

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights (Brooklyn)
Block‑after‑block of over‑the‑top house displays. Go at dusk through about 9 pm, ideally mid‑December and on a weekday to avoid peak crowds. Stroller‑friendly, but expect lots of walking.

Easy Midtown Logistics (Kid‑First)
• Walkable Core: Bryant Park (≈5 min), Grand Central (≈5 min), Rockefeller Center (≈12–15 min), Times Square (≈15–20 min).
• Transit: Subways and buses beat holiday traffic; compact strollers are simplest at turnstiles.
• Warm‑Up Stops: Lobbies, cafés, and museum entrances make handy breaks between outdoor sights.

Sample 2‑Day Family Itinerary

Day 1 — Midtown Magic
Breakfast near the hotel → Bryant Park rink (morning skate) → Holiday Shops snack lunch → FAO Schwarz → Rockefeller Tree photos → Early dinner → Rockettes evening show.
Day 2 — Bronx & Park Lights
Grand Central train to NYBG Holiday Train Show → Late afternoon Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights → Return to Midtown for hot chocolate.

Practical Tips for Parents

• Book Early: Rockettes matinees, Santaland time slots, and Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights sell out on weekends.
• Layer Up: Wind can drop the real‑feel; hats and glove liners help with little ones.
• Stroller Strategy: Compact/umbrella strollers are easiest in crowds and on subways.
• Restroom Plan: Markets and rinks have facilities, but lines grow at peak times—go on arrival.
• Sensory‑Friendly: Note the Bronx Zoo’s sensory‑friendly night date in early December.

FAQs

Q: When does the Rockefeller Center Tree light up in 2025?
A: Wednesday, December 3, 2025; the tree stays on view into mid‑January.

Q: What are the dates for the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular?
A: November 6, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (Radio City Music Hall).

Q: Is Bryant Park’s rink free?
A: Admission is free; skate rentals are paid (advance reservations recommended).

Q: How long does the NYBG Holiday Train Show run?
A: November 15, 2025 – January 11, 2026.

Q: When are Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights?
A: Select nights November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026, with a Sensory‑Friendly Night on Thursday, December 4, 2025.

Q: When does Macy’s Santaland open and how do I book?
A: It opens in late November; free timed reservations are required via Macy’s website.

Winter Specials at The Chemists’ Club Hotel
Ready to book your stay and discover all that NYC has to offer? See our offers below.

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Prefer a different package? Browse our other offers and find the perfect fit for your holiday plans.