Christmas 2026: Discover the Top Holiday Events and Experiences in Your City - Explore Now

Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in New York City 2026

Experience Christmas in NYC with Santa visits, holiday train rides, ice skating, seasonal workshops, tasting events, and more in 2026.

Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in New York City 2026

Christmas events in New York City bring the holiday season to life with Santa visits, ice skating, train rides, workshops, tastings, and family activities across the Big Apple. From Manhattan to the five boroughs, find the best New York City holiday activities for 2026 in this comprehensive guide!

The Best Things to Do in New York City at Christmas

Explore top Christmas attractions in NYC, from classic holiday activities to unique seasonal experiences happening throughout the city in 2026.

1. NYBG Holiday Train Show - NYC

Delight in a beloved New York tradition as model trains wind past nearly 200 miniature NYC landmarks intricately crafted from natural plant materials like pinecones, bark, and cinnamon sticks. Housed in the warm Enid A. Haupt Conservatory pavilion, this whimsical exhibition combines historic craftsmanship, glowing landscape lighting, and seasonal greenery for visitors of all ages.

  • Dates: Saturday, November 14th, 2026 through Sunday, January 10th, 2027
  • Admission: Paid 
  • Street Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: On-site paid parking available at the Peter J. Sharp Garage; Metro North Railroad stops directly at Botanical Garden Station.
  • Website: https://www.nybg.org/event/upcoming-exhibitions/holiday-train-show/

Insider Tip: Reserve a timed entry slot for the first morning hour on a weekday to admire the intricate plant detail on the replica bridges and buildings before larger tour groups arrive.

2. Christmas Con 2026 - Edison, NJ

Immerse yourself in the ultimate festive fan experience as the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center hosts the premier celebrity holiday convention. Meet your favorite holiday TV movie stars, attend panel discussions, participate in ugly sweater contests, and shop from dozens of seasonal vendors all under one roof.

  • Dates: Friday, December 11th - Sunday, December 13th, 2026
  • Admission: Paid
  • Street Address: 97 Sunfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08837
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Free on-site parking in the main lot (1,200 spaces) and auxiliary lot (600 spaces).
  • Website: https://www.thats4entertainment.com/christmasconnj

Insider Tip: Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before doors open on Saturday morning to secure a free parking spot in the primary main lot directly in front of the venue entrance, saving you a walk from the auxiliary overflow parking area.

3. Adventure Aquarium Christmas Underwater — Camden, NJ

Adventure Aquarium brings a marine inspired spin to the holiday season with special exhibits, seasonal photo stations, and indoor snow flurries inside the main concourse. The centerpiece of the attraction is the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree, submerged inside the 550,000-gallon Shark Realm exhibit alongside sea turtles, stingrays, and sand tiger sharks. Guests can watch Scuba Santa dive daily into the tanks to interact with visitors through the glass display walls. Children can drop off custom letters at dedicated Scuba Santa mailboxes located throughout the facility. Special puppet performances and holiday sing alongs round out this unique aquatic winter celebration.

Insider Tip: Cross the Shark Bridge right after the show to catch a unique, overhead view of the 18-foot underwater Christmas tree lit up beneath you.

4. The Polar Express Train Ride — Phillipsburg, NJ

Operating out of historic Lehigh Junction along the Delaware River, this 90 minute vintage train excursion recreates Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday story. Car hosts serve hot chocolate and cookies to passengers while reading along with recorded audio narration by actor Liam Neeson. Costumed characters, cheerful conductors, and Santa Claus move through the heated, decorated vintage coaches to greet families and hand out souvenir silver sleigh bells. Passengers of all ages are encouraged to wear holiday pajamas to match the story's theme. The scenic riverside trip offers an unforgettable immersive journey for young believers and their families.

  • Dates: Select dates, from November 27th to December 20th, 2026 
  • Admission: Paid
  • Street Address: 38 Market St, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, designed specifically for children and families.
  • Pet-Friendly: No, only service dogs are permitted on board the train.
  • Parking: On-site parking is available at the Lehigh Junction train station lot for a small fee.
  • Website: https://www.877trainride.com/polarexpress.htm

Insider Tip: Boarding begins strictly 20 minutes prior to departure. Plan to arrive in Phillipsburg 45 minutes early so you can park, collect physical tickets at the station, and snap photos with the locomotive.

5. Storytelling & Selfies with Santa & Mrs. Claus — New Haven, CT

Held inside the lower level of Barnes & Noble at The Yale Bookstore, this free holiday series invites families for interactive storytelling sessions with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children can gather around as the holiday couple reads seasonal storybooks in a cozy, decorated indoor setting. Following story time, families have the opportunity to take complimentary photos and selfies with Santa and Mrs. Claus on their holiday throne. The Shops at Yale provide complimentary snacks and light refreshments for all attending children and parents. Located in the heart of Broadway, the event provides a warm and accessible weekend activity for downtown visitors.

  • Dates: Sundays, December 6th, 13th, & 20th, 2026 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Street Address: 77 Broadway (Lower Level Barnes & Noble), New Haven, CT 06511
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, ideal for young children and families.
  • Pet-Friendly: No, registered service dogs only.
  • Parking: Convenient parking available at the 56 Broadway surface lot across the street.
  • Website: https://theshopsatyale.com/holiday/

Insider Tip: Sit along the far left edge of the rug. This gives kids a clear view of the book pages and puts you right at the front of the photo queue when the story ends.

6. Victorian Holidays at Mohonk Mountain House — New Paltz, NY

Perched atop the Shawangunk Ridge, this historic 19th century Victorian castle resort transforms into a winter retreat for overnight guests and day visitors. The resort grounds feature an open air pavilion ice rink, outdoor winter light trails, fireside campfires, and graham cracker house craft workshops. Scheduled seasonal entertainment includes live Nutcracker ballet pop up performances, theatrical Dickens readings, and self-guided evergreen tree tours across the historic parlors. The mountain house setting offers a secluded nature getaway wrapped in traditional Hudson Valley history. Overnight guests and day diners alike can enjoy classic seasonal hospitality amidst panoramic mountain views.

  • Dates: November 28th, 2026 through January 3rd, 2027
  • Admission: Included with overnight room bookings; day passes available for spa, dining, or outdoor activity reservations.
  • Street Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, offers extensive youth activity programs and outdoor sports.
  • Pet-Friendly: No, pets are not allowed on resort grounds (service dogs only).
  • Parking: On-site valet and lot parking are available at the main resort lodge entrance for guests with advance reservations.
  • Website: https://www.mohonk.com/signature-events/victorian-holidays/

Insider Tip: If you aren't staying overnight, book an advance lunch reservation at the Main Dining Room. This grants you full gate access to explore the illuminated castle parlors and outdoor winter trails for the entire afternoon.

7. Chapel Street Ice Carving Demonstrations — New Haven, CT

On select winter Saturdays, the Chapel Street Historic District hosts professional ice carvers who are sculpting 300 pound blocks of crystal clear ice into seasonal artwork. Spectators can watch live as artists carve detailed holiday figures right on the sidewalk outside Üni Life. The scheduled carvings showcase distinct themes ranging from the Elm City Elf to holiday reindeer and Santa Claus. On opening day, visitors can enjoy complimentary fresh kettle popcorn provided by The Kettle King while watching the demonstration. The outdoor visual spectacle is a sensational family-friendly Christmas event in New York City region to stop at while strolling through downtown shops and restaurants.

  • Dates: Saturdays, November 28th, December 12th, & December 19th, 2026 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Street Address: 1046 Chapel St (in front of Üni Life), New Haven, CT 06511
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on sidewalk areas.
  • Parking: Metered street parking available along Chapel Street and nearby Crown Street garages.
  • Website: https://theshopsatyale.com/holiday/

Insider Tip: Stand on the sidewalk opposite Chapel Street near Union League Cafe to get the best unobstructed angle for photos as the sculptor finishes the top details.

8. Old Westbury Gardens Children’s Christmas Party — Old Westbury, NY

Step into a jolly winter evening inside the historic Westbury House mansion for the annual Children’s Christmas Party. Families can enjoy a self guided tour through the grandly decorated period rooms while participating in a holiday scavenger hunt. Children get hands-on at festive craft stations to make their own holiday keepsakes to take home. Santa Claus will be on-site to greet young guests, listen to wish lists, and pose for family photos. The evening concludes on the West Porch with complimentary warm cider and freshly baked cookies.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 71 Old Westbury Rd, Old Westbury, NY 11568
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes, designed specifically for children and families.
  • Pet-Friendly: No, service dogs only inside Westbury House.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking is available in the main visitor lots near the entrance gates.
  • Website: https://www.oldwestburygardens.org/event/childrens-christmas-party/

Insider Tip: Book your tickets early online as this limited capacity evening event regularly sells out weeks in advance.

9. Brownstone Botanicals Wreath Workshops — Brooklyn, NY

Learn the meditative art of holiday wreath making during a hands on workshop inside Brownstone Botanicals’ Greenpoint studio. Participants discover traditional construction techniques using 14-inch forms, fresh evergreen foliage, and natural botanical elements. Expert instructors guide guests through selecting greenery, balancing textures, and crafting custom decorative bows. All tools, high-end supplies, and seasonal refreshments are provided throughout the creative session. Guests leave the studio with a beautiful, custom handcrafted holiday wreath ready to hang on their front door.

  • Dates: Thursday, December 3rd & Sunday, December 6th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 173 Green St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
  • Kid-Friendly: Recommended for adults and older teens due to tool usage.
  • Pet-Friendly: No, studio space permits service dogs only.
  • Parking: Street parking is available throughout the surrounding Greenpoint neighborhood.
  • Website: https://brownstonebotanical.com/products/wreath-making-workshops

Insider Tip: Early December workshops ensure your fresh evergreen wreath stays vibrant and fragrant through the end of the month.

11. Cranford Santa Run — Cranford, NJ

Kick off your December with an energetic holiday 5K through the charming neighborhood streets and paved park trails of Cranford. This morning run mixes community spirit with a sweet reward at the finish line. Freshly made donuts await every runner as they cross! Beyond the holiday cheer and Santa outfits, every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting local families navigating financial hardship due to cancer treatment.

Insider Tip: Pick up your race packet on Friday afternoon (3:00 PM - 7:00 PM) at Fleet Feet in Summit to bypass the morning registration queues and claim your preferred shirt size well before Saturday’s gun start.

12. Asbury Park Santa Run — Asbury Park, NJ

Picture thousands of Santas jogging along the historic Asbury Park boardwalk with the Atlantic Ocean crashing beside them. This legendary Jersey Shore event takes race day up a notch by pairing a fast oceanfront 5K with access to four exclusive post race after parties at iconic local venues like The Stone Pony. The course winds through town and along the waterfront, giving participants a scenic run that directly benefits Lunch Break’s local food and social service initiatives.

Insider Tip: Show your race bib early at packet pickup to secure your after party wristband, which grants you free entry and drink specials at legendary spots like The Stone Pony and Wonder Bar right after crossing the finish line.

13. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Hempstead, NY

Lace up your sneakers and bring your favorite holiday gear to Hofstra University for the Long Island edition of the Arthritis Foundation’s landmark charity race. Marking four decades of impact, this event brings together runners, walkers, and strollers of all ages for a morning dedicated to spreading cheer and funding cures. The paved campus route offers a safe, wide open course ideal for pushing for a personal best or taking a brisk holiday walk with friends.

Insider Tip: Enter campus via Earle Ovington Boulevard off Hempstead Turnpike to park directly in the Mack Sports Complex lot, putting you just steps away from both the indoor registration area and the starting arch.

14. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Holmdel, NJ

Celebrate the season at Holmdel’s iconic Bell Works complex during a seasonal 5K morning filled with community energy, holiday music, and post race fun. Participants can run or walk through the scenic grounds before heading into an after party featuring specialty drinks and family entertainment. Every registration helps support the Arthritis Foundation, with top fundraisers earning exclusive event gear like custom pom pom beanies.

Insider Tip: Take full advantage of the unique venue by heading straight inside the Bell Works pedestrian atrium right after your run to warm up, grab hot drinks, and explore the indoor shops and holiday market.

15. Holiday Hustle 5K — Ridgefield Park, NJ

Treat yourself to a USATF certified 5K through the beautiful paths of Overpeck County Park. Hosted by Fleet Feet Northern NJ and Asics, this holiday race balances a fast course for competitive runners with a relaxed, cheerful vibe for casual walkers. Cross the finish line and step right into a cozy celebration filled with hot cocoa, fresh cookies, and holiday music under the park pavilion.

Insider Tip: Set your GPS specifically for the Ridgefield Park / Henry Hoebel Area entrance off Fort Lee Road to reach the Pavilion parking lot directly without having to navigate through the larger Bergen County park system.

16. Racefaster through the Mall: Santa Run — East Rutherford, NJ

Beat the biting winter winds with a truly unique indoor racing experience inside the sprawling American Dream complex. This chip timed 5K consists of four loops through the climate controlled indoor corridors, giving runners real time split updates after every lap. Whether you're aiming for a winter PR or just want to run in a Santa hat without wearing five layers of thermal gear, this indoor course delivers total comfort.

Insider Tip: Have spectators head up to the second level balcony near the center atrium. This will give them a prime vantage point to cheer you on for all four course loops.

17. It's A Wonderful Run 5K — Bedford Falls, NY

Step straight into a classic holiday movie setting in Seneca Falls, the town that inspired Bedford Falls in It's a Wonderful Life. This twilight 5K takes place during the town's annual festival, sending thousands of festively dressed runners across illuminated bridges and down historic main streets. The twilight atmosphere, roaring crowds, and small town charm make this one of the most memorable holiday runs in the country.

Insider Tip: Swing by the community center on Friday evening between 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM for early bib pickup so you can spend the afternoon exploring the festival stalls along Fall Street with more time.

18. Hoboken's Jingle Bell 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run — Hoboken, NJ

Take on a waterfront 5K with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop. Starting at Pier A Park, this Hoboken tradition brings an infectious holiday energy to the Hudson River waterfront. Every participant receives a full Santa suit to wear during the race, and everyone is greeted with piping hot chocolate at the finish line to cap off a crisp morning on the water.

Insider Tip: Skip the parking hassle altogether by taking the PATH train into Hoboken Terminal, the starting line at Pier A Park is an easy, three-block stroll along the waterfront promenade.

19. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Purchase, NY

Gather your family, friends, or coworkers for a jolly morning run through the scenic suburban campus grounds of Purchase, NY. Organized by the Arthritis Foundation, this Westchester tradition turns charity running into a full-fledged holiday celebration. The rolling 5K course provides a balanced workout while raising funds to support ground breaking research and patient programs.

Insider Tip: Register as a team of four or more early on, it makes bib collection smoother on race morning and lets you coordinate themed costumes for group photo ops.

20. JINGLE ALL THE WAY 5K — Seaford, NY

Enjoy a classic suburban park run at Cedar Creek Park in Seaford, where athletes of all ages come together to stay active and give back. Alongside the main 5K course, kids can take part in the "Run Rudolph 1K" sprint. The heart of this event is its annual toy drive, encouraging every participant to bring a new, unwrapped gift to brighten the holidays for children supported by the John Theissen Children's Foundation.

Insider Tip: Place your unwrapped toy donation right in the collection bins near the registration tent when you arrive so you don't have to carry it back to your car after finishing.

21. Rockaway Beach Santa Suit / Grinch Fun Run & 5K — Rockaway Park, NY

Combine ocean air, Christmas costumes, and pub hospitality with a 5K along the historic Rockaway Beach Boardwalk. Check-in starts at Healy’s Pub before runners spill out onto the wooden boardwalk clad in Santa suits, festive t-shirts, or Grinch garb. After completing the flat oceanfront course, runners head back to the pub to collect their custom finisher medal and claim a complimentary post race beer.

Insider Tip: If you want to run as the Grinch, reserve the $20 costume add-on during online registration, there are only 50 Grinch mask and glove sets produced each year.

22. The Run Before Christmas - SantaCon 8k — Clinton, NJ

Immerse yourself in one of New Jersey's most picturesque holiday traditions in the town of Clinton. This 8K race challenges runners with a slightly longer distance while guiding them past colonial storefronts, country roads, and along the South Branch Raritan River. Costumed runners finish directly in front of the landmark Red Mill Museum Village, creating a postcard perfect finish line scene.

Insider Tip: Walk onto the historic iron bridge facing the Red Mill immediately after crossing the finish line to catch the best angle for your post race photos while the morning light hits the water.

23. The Holiday Half Marathon! — Brooklyn, NY

Close out your year of training with 13.1 scenic miles along Brooklyn's Shore Road Promenade in Bay Ridge. This multi loop course is remarkably flat and fast, making it a favorite for runners looking to cap off the year with a personal record. Every mile offers sweeping, open views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Lower Manhattan skyline, supported by aid stations positioned roughly every mile.

Insider Tip: Check your bags and claim your bib right when check-in opens at 6:30 AM, then warm up inside one of the neighborhood delis on 4th Avenue before the line gets long.

24. Jingle Jangle — Richmond Hill, NY

Keep the holiday momentum going through the final weekend of the year with a crisp morning run through Queens' Forest Park. Set along the closed, tree lined road of Forest Park Drive, this 5K offers a peaceful escape from city traffic. Runners get custom shaped commemorative bibs, post race warm beverages, and their choice of high quality custom winter gear at registration.

  • Dates: Sunday, December 27th, 2026
  • Admission: Paid 
  • Street Address: 108-14 Myrtle Ave, Richmond Hill, NY 11418
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet-Friendly: No (service dogs permitted)
  • Parking: Ample free parking available in the main Forest Park parking lots near Woodhaven Blvd & Myrtle Ave
  • Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/13563/jingle-jangle

Insider Tip: Get to the main Forest Park lot 30 minutes before bib pickup opens to secure a spot close to the Myrtle Avenue staging zone and get first pick between the custom beanie or winter gloves.

Tips for Enjoying Christmas Attractions and Experiences in New York City

  • Book Santa photos early: Popular Santa visits at malls, train rides, and holiday villages sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as dates are announced.
  • Plan around nap and meal times: Holiday events draw crowds at peak times. Going right at opening or in the late afternoon often works better for younger kids.
  • Layer up for outdoor events: Many New York City holiday activities are partially or fully outdoors. Bring extra layers, hats, and gloves for unpredictable weather.
  • Bring snacks: Food at holiday events often has long lines and inflated prices. Packing your own snacks saves money and meltdowns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Christmas events in New York City this season.

What are the best family-friendly Christmas events New York City has to offer?

New York City offers everything from Santa visits and ice skating to holiday train rides and interactive Christmas villages. The right pick depends on your kids' ages and interests. Check the listings above for age recommendations.

Where can I take a photo with Santa in New York City?

Major shopping centers, holiday villages, train experiences, and select neighborhood events offer photos with Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended for the most popular Santa visits, which book up weeks in advance.

Are New York City Christmas attractions and experiences free for kids?

Most New York City Christmas experiences are ticketed events, but many venues offer reduced prices and even free admission to certain age ranges. Check individual listings for details. 

When should I book Christmas attractions and experiences in New York City?

Book ticketed activities as soon as dates are announced, typically in October. The closer to Christmas, the harder it is to get tickets.

Can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Christmas Attractions and Experiences Worth the Drive from New York City

New York City isn't the only place worth visiting for family Christmas activities this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own kid-friendly holiday events worth the trip.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — 1 Hour 45 Minutes from New York City

Step into Longwood Gardens for A Longwood Christmas, where over 500,000 lights blanket the grounds and a towering Fraser fir anchors the jewel-toned Music Room. Then, throw on your best running shoes and hit the pavement at the 2026 Jingle Bell Run, a decades-old charity tradition that fills the Navy Yard with runners in full holiday gear and then cross the river to Camden's Waterfront for A Merry Christmas Run along the water for a lower-key seasonal 5K.

Looking for more things to do in Philadelphia at Christmas? Check out our full guide!

Boston, Massachusetts — 3 Hours 45 Minutes from New York City

Sip spiced Glühwein and snack on rolled chimney cakes at the Yuletide Wine Garden, an open-air pavilion at Vaillancourt Folk Art in Sutton that pops up every weekend through December. Then, lace up for the Jingle Bell Half Marathon & 5K in Haverhill, where holiday costumes and jingling bells carry runners to a hot cocoa-filled finish line party. Last, but certainly not least, hop the ferry to Nantucket for the Festival of Trees, where the Whaling Museum fills with handcrafted trees from local artists and island school children.

Looking for more Christmas events in Boston? Check out our full guide!

Plan Your Complete New York City Christmas Experience

New York City's family Christmas activities are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to New York City Christmas lights, holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, and Christmas markets and holiday shopping. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our New York City Christmas guide has you covered.

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