Sludging through the snow towards work on a brisk December morning, and it may feel like NYC is far from a winter wonderland. That’s understandable. However, look around and you may just notice something special. With plenty of places to see, and an undeniable magic in the air, and even the most cynical of New Yorkers can find something redeemable and unique about the holiday season in the big city. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest reasons why a New York City winter is like no other.

Big Christmas Trees

Regardless of whether you celebrate Christmas or not, there’s something awe-inspiring about seeing a massive multiple-story Evergreen placed in the concrete jungle. What’s great about New York is that there are numerous hotspots to see them. Probably the most famous would be at the South Street Seaport, where choir singing can also be found. Other special ones include Rockefeller Center (located in a scenic position by Wollman Rink) and underneath the giant arch at Washington Square Park. Even museum-goers can be treated to the Met’s massive tree, complete with a nativity scene. If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, take a look at these magnificent trees and soak up the atmosphere.

Ice Rinks

Trying to have some genuine fun this winter? You might just be interested in going ice skating with some friends. The previously mentioned Wollman Rink at Rockefeller Center is the most notable, with thousands every year flocking to it. Those at Wollman's are treated to skating in the heart of the always-bustling midtown, an authentic piece of New York flair. Other venues that may intrigue include skating in both Central Park and on the Highline, a pair of unique settings only made possible by life in the Big Apple. No matter where you go, it’s highly unlikely you’ll regret spending a day at one of these iconic rinks.

Holiday Shopping

If you really want to get into that holiday spirit, there’s no better way to do it than checking out some department stores for the right gift for your loved ones. Shopping hotspots such as Lorde and Taylor, Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks Fifth Avenue, among many others, have been spreading seasonal joy through stunning holiday window displays and shopping experiences. These displays, filled with winter-themed scenes and stunningly detailed figurines, have been drawing onlookers and potential customer for decades. Be sure to take a long look at these creative and captivating scenes next time you head through midtown.

Holiday Shows

New York has always been a show biz town, so what better way to usher in the holidays than seeing a live performance? At Radio City Music Hall, a historic venue in its own right, the Rockette’s annual Christmas spectacular has been entertaining and engaging generations of New Yorkers since 1933. If that doesn’t suit you fancy, something more traditional may. At Lincoln Center, Tchaikovsky’s classic The Nutcracker returns for yet another year. The timeless holiday story, one that most are familiar with, is truly special when performed on stage, and even more so when accompanied by a world renowned group of live musicians. On Broadway, adaptations of a number of Christmas classics, ranging from The Grinch to Charlie Brown, are here for a limited time only, so be sure to check them out before New Years!

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