One of the most spectacular holiday displays in NYC, Shine Bright features over 2 million holiday lights illuminating the entire neighborhood. Photo courtesy of Hudson Yards

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Skate beneath the historic Brooklyn Bridge while taking in the iconic views of the Manhattan skyline at Roebling Rink. Photo courtesy of venue

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Until January 5, The Paley Museum has been transformed into a five-story winter wonderland.

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Santa Photos, Classic Films, and More Holiday Magic at PaleyLand

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Head to the Queens Botanical Garden to experience mysterious rainforests, underwater kingdoms, and ancient cultures as part of the Lektrik lantern festival. Photo courtesy of Fever

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The Dyker Heights Christmas lights attract throngs of visitors to the Brooklyn neighborhood each holiday season. Photo courtesy of Dyker Heights Lights

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The Tianyu Lights Festival transforms the Citi Field parking lot into a magical holiday destination with larger-than-life lanterns and kid-friendly activities. Photo courtesy of the festival

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Santa is a busy man, so reservations are required to visit Santland at Macy's Herald Square in New York City in 2024. Photo by Marisa Iallonardo

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Toys for Tots brings Christmas joy to children in need. Photo courtesy of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

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Bryant Park's Bumper Cars are a mainstay of late-winter fun in the park. Photo by Janet Bloom

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The stunning Peace, Love, and Lights drive-thru at Bethel Woods returns for another season of bringing visitors joy.

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The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is an iconic NYC holiday destination. Photo courtesy of Rockefeller Center

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Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden has become an enchanting holiday tradition for many families. Photo courtesy of the garden

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Visit the 180 Pool at the Crystal Springs Resort. Photo courtesy of the resort

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Free activities for Kids in NYC include the Children's Museum of the Arts, which has pay-what-you-wish Thursdays from 4-6pm. Photo courtesy of the museum

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Registration is now open for the reasonably priced summer camps at YMCA locations in NYC.

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There's always a cool new piece of public art to see and interact with in NYC. Photo by Jody Mercier

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The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has 75 animal exhibits and is home to more than 7,000 animals. Photo courtesy of the aquarium

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Get a Broadway-caliber serenade during a birthday dinner at Ellen's Stardust Diner.

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See the skyline from a whole new vantage point on the Roosevelt Island Tram. Photo courtesy of NYCGo

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Hester Street Playground. Photo by Jody Mercier

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36 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in NYC for Kids

Enjoy the Coca-Cola Winter Wonderland experience at the Apollo for free. Photo courtesy of the Apollo

12/1/24 - By Drew Kristofik

When it comes to holiday gifts, we've got the perfect one for you, dear reader: This list of FREE holiday and Christmas events in NYC. Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year's Eve are all fast approaching, but between Nutcrackers, family-friendly holiday shows, special meals with Santa, and gift-giving, things can get expensive. So, we've rounded up 36 FREE holiday and Christmas events in NYC to enjoy now through New Year's Eve.

For more things to do in New York City this season, bookmark our NYC Kids' Guide to Holiday Activities and Christmas Events and our always-up-to-date Family Activity Calendar.

Keep in mind that reservations are required for many of these events, so plan your outings in advance, and be sure to click through to our listings for all the details, including address, time, and recommended ages.

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