New York City Christmas Guide: Must See and Do Christmas Activities

New York City is one city that has a long tradition of getting into the Christmas spirit. The city offer a number of wonderful attractions and activities, many of which are so well known that when New York City and Christmas are mentioned they immediately come to mind.

Here some of the must see and do Christmas time activities to do in New York City.

Christmas Trees
When the holiday season arrives in New York City so do its wonderful Christmas tress. The most famous of these trees is probably the beautifully lit Rockerfeller Center Christmas tree. The tree is lit each day from 5:30 in the morning until 11:30 at night. It is one of those must see New York City Christmas attractions for visitors and residents of the city. Each year thousands attend the lighting ceremony and it is even shown on television. It is one of the main events that marks the start of the holiday season in the US.

The tree is at least 65 feet tall and 35 feet wide each year, though; when possible a larger tree is used. The tree is decorated with up to 5 miles of lights and simply topped with a glittering star. The Rockerfeller Christmas tree is located Rockerfeller Center's, center, at 47th and 50th streets and 5th and 7th avenues.

The Lincoln centre is also host to another famous New York City Christmas tree. This tree is always lit each year with a fun family friendly ceremony that includes singing and dancing.

A wonderful indoor Christmas tree is put up each year at the American Museum of Natural History. The tree is decorated with origami ornaments, with each year having a different theme. The 2007 theme is Fantastic Creatures.

Don't miss out the Christmas trees along Park Avenue. The trees along the street from 97th Street to 48th Street are covered in lights each year, creating a wonderful holiday scene.

Ice Skating
Ice-skating in Rockefeller Center is one of those New York City holiday traditions that is associated with Christmas in the city. The Ice Rink is found at the center of the Rockerfeller Center, not far from its famous Christmas tree. Even though the rink is a bit small and can be pricey, this is one Christmas tradition that you must do at least once, and should not miss while in New York City. You can rent skates for $7.50, skating price vary depending on the time and day. Skating at Rockerfeller Center has been taking place every year since Christmas day, 1936.

For a less expensive ice-skating option head to the Wollman Rink in Central Park. Skating beneath the lights of New York City at night to the music played at this rink can create a truly magical moment. It is possible skate here for a daily fee along with renting skates.

Shows
If you want to see a good show, New York City is one of the best places in the world. You will be spoiled for choice and have a hard time deciding but it will all be worth it. The most famous Christmas show in New York City that should not be missed is the Radio City Christmas Spectacular which features the world famous Rockettes.

Another fantastic traditional Christmas show is the Nutcracker. Each year the New York City Ballet stages the magical Nutcracker, which is enjoyable for children and adults.

Holiday Windows
One of the most popular holiday attractions in New York City are the beautiful window displays created by some of the city's largest department stores. Each of the stores painstakingly creates a new theme ever year. It is traditional for many families to tour the window scenes each year while doing some Christmas shopping in New York City. Some of the biggest and best-known displays are found at Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Lord & Taylors, Saks, Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys.

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
A visit to the zoo is a fun and educational activity for families to enjoy at any time of year, but a visit a Christmas time can be extra special. During the holiday season the zoo is decorated with thousands of lights and turned into an enchanted winter wonderland complete with reindeer.

Shopping
New York City offers some of the best shopping in the world and is the perfect place to find those special gifts for loved ones. Though be warned Christmas time makes these fantastic shops extra busy. Some must visit stores are Macy's and Bloomingdale's. Also if you are shopping in New York City you can't miss FAO Schwartz, even if you are looking for children's gifts. FAO Schwartz is one of the largest and best toy stores in the world and sells common, unique and collectable toys. For that special piece of jewellery, don't miss a visit to Tiffany's.

Christmas Dinner
New York has some excellent restaurants. If you are looking for a special holiday treat consider booking a table at one of the specially organised Christmas Eve or Day meals. Many of them have a fixed price menu for the event. For something different try MEGU Japanese restaurant. They offer a tasty Japanese menu for $125 on Christmas Eve and day, a wonderful experience for a romantic. They also offer a New Years Eve dinner. You will need to book in advance, so call 212 964 7777. For something more traditional and less expensive try Capsouto Freres Christmas Eve meal. To book call 212 966 4900. Cibo offers a family friendly Christmas Eve and Day Dinner without breaking the bank. Their three-course meal costs $65 and children are half price. Call 212 681 1616 for more details.