The Citiblog

Photo: Tishman Speyer

The annual Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024, during the live broadcast of Christmas at Rockefeller Center. Once lit, the 2024 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will shine daily from 5 AM to midnight, with special hours on Christmas Eve (lit for 24 hours) and New Year’s Eve (lit from 5 AM to 9 PM). Visitors can enjoy the iconic tree through mid-January, a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in New York City.

Photo: Tishman Speyer

Also at The Rock, get cozy this holiday season at the Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill, located rink-side at Rockefeller Center’s South Esplanade. From November 1 to January 10, these festive chalets offer unbeatable views of the iconic Christmas Tree and are decked out with stunning Balsam Hill holiday décor. Each reservation accommodates up to six people for 40 minutes and includes two non-alcoholic beverages, with additional treats available for purchase. Open daily, hours vary by date. Closed December 3 & 4. Reservations are highly recommended!

And, get ready for a brass-filled holiday bash as the 51st Annual Tuba Christmas returns to Rockefeller Center on December 15 at 3:30 p.m. This iconic tradition brings together tubists of all skill levels, from ages 8 to 80+, to perform holiday classics while decked out in festive costumes and tinsel-covered tubas. Founded at Rockefeller Center in 1974, this event is the “granddaddy” of all Tuba Christmases, drawing musicians and spectators from around the globe for a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration.

Photo: Lincoln Square Bid

Lincoln Square is set to dazzle this holiday season with the return of its Magical Lights program, kicking off Tuesday, December 3, at 4:30 p.m. in Dante Park. This year’s festivities promise bigger and brighter displays, including audio-reactive Singing Trees synced to festive tunes, interactive light installations at Richard Tucker Park, and 36 glowing trees along Broadway. Highlights include circus acts, carolers, and live performances by Kaufman Music Center’s Special Music School Chorus and the SAINTS of SWING. Don’t miss the WinteRamble on December 18, featuring Frost Giant puppets and a lantern-lit procession through the neighborhood.

Photo: The Fulton/Robert Vredvad

Indulge in an evening of luxury at The Fulton’s Bubbles and Caviar Wine Dinner on Monday, December 9, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. This six-course feast pairs exquisite dishes like tuna tartare, sea urchin pasta, and seared black cod with crème fraîche and vodka alongside sparkling selections from Ferrari, André Jacquart Champagne, and Boizel Champagne. A celebration of fine wine and culinary artistry, it’s the ultimate holiday treat for food and wine lovers.

Photo: ABC Kitchen

Get into the holiday spirit with an evening of creativity and indulgence at ABC Kitchen’s Elixir Space on Wednesday, December 4, at 6:30 p.m. This hands-on workshop includes cookie decorating with Chef Ashley, a tablescaping session led by Tommaso Diodato of ABC Carpet & Home, and bites from abcV, ABC Kitchen, and ABC Cocina. Sip on festive cocktails as you learn to perfect holiday décor and desserts in this festive Flatiron experience. Tickets are $88 plus tax.

Image: Matt Timms

Local Brooklyn artist Matt Timms, known as All The Bad Cats, is bringing his signature watercolor pet portraits to two local spots. On Sunday, December 1st, he’ll be at Emily Brooklyn from 12-3pm, and on Sunday, December 8th, you can catch him at Grand Army Bar from 2pm until close. For $80, you can commission a 5x5" portrait of your pet—just bring a digital photo for Matt to reference. It’s the perfect holiday gift and a great way to support local art while enjoying a pizza brunch or sipping oysters and wine. Portraits are done first come, first served, so be sure to arrive early!

Photo: Seaport Museum

Get into the holiday spirit with Fresh Prints at the South Street Seaport Museum on December 5 at 6 PM. Hosted at Bowne & Co. (211 Water Street), this free open house lets guests create festive designs on vintage printing presses, blending holiday cheer with old-school craftsmanship. Ages 12 and up are welcome, and participants can take home their custom prints. While you’re there, shop Bowne & Co.’s charming gift emporium for unique stationery, holiday cards, and letterpress goods, with extended hours starting December 5.

Photo: Dickson's Farmstand

Looking for a holiday without the holiday fuss, head to Dickson’s Farmstand Holiday Extravaganza on December 6 at Chelsea Market. Indulge in a feast of prime rib, glazed ham, roast lamb, lobster, foie gras, and caviar while sipping from The Bubbly Bar’s selection of eight sparkling wines from around the globe. Groove to live tunes as you dance the night away in the vibrant atmosphere of Dickson's Farmstand Meats’ Butcher Shop & Restaurant, located on Chelsea Market’s lower level. Doors open at 8 PM, with an exclusive after party at The Tippler starting at 11 PM. Don’t miss this festive night of gourmet delights and lively entertainment—grab your tickets now and join the celebration!

Photo: Empire Outlets

Empire Outlets on Staten Island is bringing its holiday cheer with festive events and unbeatable deals this December. On December 7, the annual Holiday Tree Lighting kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with live performances, the arrival of Santa and the Grinch, and cozy treats like s’mores and hot chocolate. On December 14, start your morning with Breakfast with Santa, featuring a soulful spread from Hazel’s 423; just bring a gift to donate for admission. Plus, score major Black Friday savings all month long at top retailers like Nike, Nordstrom Rack, and Banana Republic. Holiday shopping has never been this fun—or this festive!

Photo: Angelina Bakery

Great Jones Whiskey and Angelina Bakery are teaming up to deliver a holiday indulgence like no other: a limited-edition bombolone filled with whiskey-smoked Chantilly cream, glazed with white chocolate, and topped with caramelized bacon crumbles. Available December 2 through January 2, this decadent treat marries the rich, smoky notes of Great Jones Whiskey with the sweet mastery of Angelina’s pastries. It’s a festive delight perfect for the season—don’t miss your chance to taste this one-of-a-kind collaboration.

Photo: Bourbon Steak

After a festive day of shopping at Columbus Circle, admiring the Rockefeller Plaza tree, and strolling through Central Park, head over to Bourbon Steak New York, nestled inside the JW Essex House. Chef Michael Mina’s first NYC venture offers a warm, upscale dining experience featuring Prime Cut Steaks, including a 20oz Westholme Bone-In NY Strip, and indulgent sides like Black Truffle Mac & Cheese. Don’t miss the decadent Bourbon Flambéed Valrhona Chocolate Fondue, served tableside with a tempting selection of cookies and seasonal treats. With stunning views of Central Park, it’s the perfect spot to unwind this holiday season. Plus, enjoy festive carolers and performances in the hotel lobby to get into the holiday spirit!

Until next time, we'll be seeing you Around Town!