Festive things to do in NYC before Christmas

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The streets of New York are getting really festive, and my mood even more. Yesterday I was complimented on my outfit three times by colleagues pointing out how festive I looked. That can only be positive in my book. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, to visit Christmas markets and watch corny Christmas movies. To spend time with your dear ones and bake too many ginger bread cookies. To fill your house with decorations and warmth. And if you find yourself in New York during this season, here are some ideas on festive things to do.

Christmas marked

New York is booming with cozy Christmas markets, but the most epic one you’ll find in Bryant Park behind the New York Public Library; The Bryant Park Winter Village. This is the perfect place for a Christmas-lover like myself. It’s so cozy shopping at the different vendors and kiosks selling beautiful Christmas decorations, drinking hot apple cider, and smelling the delicious food. There’s also a huge, free ice-skating rink in one end (all you have to do is bring your own skates or rent a pair for $20).

Bryant Park Winter Village, 41W 40th St

Go to the theater

When I was younger my parent used to take my sisters and I to the theater in the winter season, and the tradition has stuck with me. I love a good musical, opera, or ballet, and I usually go experience the festive (and family friendly) Christmas Spectacular. This year I’ve also bought tickets for the Nutcracker ballet.

Ice-skating

We already talked a little bit about this, but New York offer some pretty epic ice-skating rinks. The one at The Bryant Park Winter Village is beautiful in the middle of the tall buildings of Midtown, but also the one in Central Park is among my favorites. Nothing beats dancing around on the ice with the fabulous NYC-skyline as backdrop.

A walk in Central Park

And now that we’re talking about Central Park, how about a walk around the park accompanied by a hot chocolate and a good friend? I love bundling up in a warm coat, and feeling the cold, fresh air on my skin. And after the walk you can light some candles, put on a Christmas movie (Ideas: Love Actually, The Grinch, The Holiday, Home Alone, and Harry Potter), and warm up under blanket. One of my favorite winter activities!

Rolfs Bar and Restaurant

If you feel like a cocktail after work (or as a tourist after too much sightseeing and shopping) Rolfs Bar and Restaurant is the most festive place to go. They have made it their mission to transform the place into the perfect Winter Wonderland, and you’ll walk away ready for Christmas Eve.

281 3rd Ave