Top 10 Christmas Shows in NYC 2025
Your Complete Guide to the Best NYC Christmas Shows and Light Displays for the Holiday Season
New York City at Christmas is like nowhere else on Earth. The lights, the music, the smell of roasted chestnuts — it all comes together in a spectacle that turns the city into one big celebration. Whether you’re looking for Christmas shows near you, exploring Christmas theater shows, or planning your dream list of shows for Christmas 2025, this guide spotlights the very best NYC has to offer.
Here are the 10 best NYC Christmas shows this season — plus a few magical light displays that define the city’s holiday glow.
1. Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
Venue: Radio City Music Hall
Dates: November 6 to January 4 (2026)
No holiday visit to New York is complete without the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. For nearly a century, the Rockettes have dazzled audiences with their precision kicks, shimmering costumes, and larger-than-life stage numbers. The 2025 season celebrates 100 years of this New York icon — expect upgraded visuals and immersive “Sphere-style” sound system designed to deliver crystal-clear audio to every seat.
If you’re only seeing one show, make it this one. It’s the definition of shows for the Holiday Season and a must for families and first-time visitors.
Buy Tickets – Tickets Sell Fast!
Pro Tip: Book weekday morning or late-night performances for fewer crowds and better prices.
How to Get There: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020 — Google Maps
2. The Magic of Rob Lake with Special Guests The Muppets — A Spellbinding Holiday Extravaganza
Venue: Broadhurst Theatre, New York City
Dates: October 28 to January 18 (2026)
Experience a Christmas miracle live on stage as world-famous illusionist Rob Lake joins forces with The Muppets for an unforgettable evening of grand illusions, musical comedy, and festive cheer. This dazzling production blends Broadway magic with beloved Muppet mischief, creating the ultimate family holiday event filled with laughter, astonishment, and pure joy.
A Must-See Holiday Event – Premium Orchestra Seats Sell Out Fast!
Pro Tip: Make it a magical evening—arrive early to grab themed holiday treats in the lobby and snap photos with special Muppet installations before the show begins.
How to Get There:Broadhurst Theatre 235 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036 — Google Maps
3. Mozart’s The Magic Flute — Holiday Presentation (Metropolitan Opera)
Venue: The Metropolitan Opera House, Lincoln Center
Dates: December 11 to January 3 (2026)
A dazzling mix of opera and fantasy, The Magic Flute at The Met is a family-friendly holiday favorite. Julie Taymor’s whimsical design features elaborate puppetry, bright colors, and a shortened run time — making it perfect for newcomers to opera.
This magical production is one of the best shows for Christmas 2025 if you’re looking for a cultural classic with heart.
Buy Magic Flute Tickets – Popular Dates Go First!
Pro Tip: Opt for seats a few rows back from the stage to fully appreciate the spectacle and sound.
How to Get There: 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023 — Google Maps
4. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghost of Christmas Eve — Rock Opera Holiday Spectacular
Venue: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
Dates: December 19
Immerse yourself in an electrifying Christmas journey as Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings their iconic rock opera The Ghost of Christmas Eve to life on stage. Featuring a full symphony of electric guitars, soaring vocals, lasers, and pyrotechnics, this spectacular show blends heartwarming storytelling with high-energy rock for an unforgettable holiday experience. It’s a beloved annual tradition for fans of all ages.
🎸 High Demand Event – Floor & Club Seats Sell Out Quickly!
Pro Tip: Upgrade to VIP or arrive early to explore holiday pop-ups and themed concessions in the arena for the full festive experience.
How to Get There: Prudential Center 25 Lafayette St, Newark, NJ 07102 — Google Maps
5. The New York Pops: Holiday Concert
Venue: Carnegie Hall
Dates: November 21 and December 19-20
Carnegie Hall becomes a winter wonderland when The New York Pops perform their annual holiday concert. Featuring classic carols, Broadway favorites, and guest vocalists, it’s an evening of joyful music that will lift anyone’s spirits.
If you’re searching for elegant, uplifting shows for the Holiday Season, this one hits the perfect note.
Pro Tip: Dress to impress — this is a festive night to remember.
How to Get There: 881 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019 — Google Maps
6. A Christmas Carol — Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC)
Venue: 251 Fulton St, New York, NY
Dates: November 23 to December 28
This award-winning adaptation of Dickens’ timeless tale transforms the story into a musical celebration of redemption and generosity. The candlelit staging and haunting music make it one of the most atmospheric Christmas shows near you downtown.
Reserve Now – Limited Holiday Run!
Pro Tip: Arrive early — PAC NYC’s interior is a sight to behold, and pre-show refreshments make for a cozy start.
How to Get There: 251 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007 — Google Maps
7. Big Apple Circus
Venue: Damrosch Park, Lincoln Center
Dates: November 7 to January 4 (20226)
Looking for something different? The Big Apple Circus delivers thrills, laughter, and a sprinkle of holiday wonder. Every seat is close to the ring, so you’re part of the magic — acrobatics, aerialists, and all.
It’s one of the most family-friendly shows for Christmas 2025, offering heart-pounding joy instead of traditional theater.
Book Circus Tickets – Family Favorite!
Pro Tip: Bundle a matinee visit with nearby skating at Lincoln Center for the perfect family day.
How to Get There: Amsterdam Ave & W 62nd St, New York, NY 10023 — Google Maps
8. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghost of Christmas Eve — Live Holiday Rock Spectacular
Venue: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
Dates: December 19
This 21+ reimagining of The Nutcracker is a sensual, cabaret-style feast for the eyes and ears. Burlesque meets baroque opera in a lavish show that’s both elegant and naughty. Perfect for couples or groups of friends who want a grown-up twist on the holidays.
Reserve VIP Seating – Hot Dates Go Fast!
Pro Tip: Make a night of it — enjoy dinner at a nearby Bushwick restaurant before curtain time.
How to Get There: 383 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237 — Google Maps
9. The Brooklyn Nutcracker — Brooklyn Ballet
Venue: Theater at City Tech, Downtown Brooklyn
Dates: December 6, 7, 13 and 14
The Brooklyn Nutcracker reimagines the beloved story through the borough’s multicultural lens — blending ballet, hip-hop, and world dance. It’s one of the most innovative Christmas shows near you, full of Brooklyn pride and heart.
Get Brooklyn Nutcracker Tickets – Limited Dates!
Pro Tip: After the show, explore the nearby Dekalb Market Hall or walk the Brooklyn Bridge for spectacular night views.
How to Get There: 285 Jay St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 — Google Maps
10. Cirque du Soleil: ‘Twas the Night Before… — A Holiday Circus Spectacular
Venue: Fifth Avenue, Midtown Manhattan
Dates: December 4 to December 23
Step into a magical world where acrobatics meet Christmas wonder! Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Twas the Night Before… reinvents the classic holiday poem through jaw-dropping aerial stunts, mesmerizing choreography, imaginative characters, and heartwarming storytelling. It’s a dazzling holiday show perfect for families, couples, and anyone ready to be swept into the spirit of Christmas with Cirque du Soleil’s signature artistry.
Get Your Cirque du Soleil Tickets – Hot Dates Go Fast!
Pro Tip: Plan extra time for photos — the venue features festive holiday installations and themed pop-up concessions exclusive to the show.
How to Get There:
The Theater at Madison Square Garden 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001 — Google Maps
Bonus: The Best Christmas Light Shows in NYC
When the curtain falls, the magic continues outdoors. These Christmas light shows turn the city itself into a glowing stage — perfect for evening walks or family photo ops.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights (Brooklyn)
Dates: (typically late November – early January)
A Brooklyn tradition like no other, the Dyker Heights neighborhood goes all out every year with thousands of lights, giant nutcrackers, and animated Santas. It’s one of the most famous Christmas light shows in America.
Pro Tip: Go on a weekday evening for lighter crowds.
How to Get There: Dyker Heights Blvd & 83rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11228 — Google Maps
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Dates: November 21 to January 4 (2026)
The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland with shimmering animal lanterns, festive music, and sparkling displays. Guests can stroll through colorful light tunnels, enjoy holiday treats like hot cocoa, and experience seasonal entertainment for all ages. It’s a magical winter event filled with wildlife, lights, and holiday cheer.
Pro Tip: Bundle up! The zoo paths can get chilly at night.
How to Get There: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460 — Google Maps
Hudson Yards Shine Bright
Dates: November 25 to January 5 (2026)
Modern and glamorous, Hudson Yards’ “Shine Bright” installation features millions of twinkling golden lights and ornaments throughout the plaza and shops. Ideal for couples and photographers.
Pro Tip: Visit after sunset, then stop for dinner at one of Hudson Yards’ rooftop restaurants.
How to Get There: 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001 — Google Maps
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning your first trip or continuing a beloved tradition, New York City’s shows for Christmas 2025 deliver pure enchantment. From the timeless kicks of the Rockettes to candlelit carols at St. Patrick’s and the twinkling Christmas light shows across the boroughs, there’s no shortage of festive magic.
Secure your tickets early, map your evenings wisely, and get ready to experience the best NYC Christmas shows — because there’s truly no place like New York for the holidays.
