It's one of my all time favorite times of year and this year was harder than we all anticipated so I've included 9 places to visit in New York City during this holiday season to brighten up your year

1. The Vessel

File:The Vessel, Hudson Yards, New York City, June 2019.jpg ...commons.wikimedia.org

Located at 34st Hudson Yard, The Vessel was only recently built a couple years ago, but it's already taken New York City by storm. They've decorated with so many Christmas trees as well as lights at night and it's just such a cute place to visit! Be sure to get your free tickets online before heading over

2. Rockefeller Center and Ice Skating Rink

people swimming in pool during nighttime Photo by Nana Nakazwe on Unsplash

One of the most festive places during the holidays is definitely the 75 feet tall Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Ice skating for my family is always a must during winter time, and what better place to go than right under a giant lit up tree to put you in a good mood.

3. Radio City Christmas Spectacular

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Radio City Music Hall, an avenue away from Rockefeller Center is home to the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular! I personally loved it as a kid and went annually. It's a show for all ages and will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit.

4. Union Square's Christmas Market

They might seem small compared to the other options on the list, however it's worth the trip! Hence the name, this small market is located in Union Square and is an annual marketplace where different vendors sell homemade items in small huts. Even if you don't end up buying anything, the place itself is such a cute place filled with holiday spirit.

5. Central Park

Although beautiful year round, Central Park during the holidays are a different kind of beautiful. Snow covered bridges and lit up trees and especially horse drawn carriages, are the best places to take photos

6. Macy's Santaland

The 34st Herald Square Macy's is one of the biggest retail stores in the world, at 130,685 square feet, so it's no surprise that after holding the Thanksgiving parade annually that they would have something in relation to Christmas. Behold, Santaland! It's a small village-like structure where Children get to meet Santa. Additionally, there are multiple mailboxes where Children can write letters to Santa. Each letter written will allow Macy's to make a $1 donation to the Make a Wish Foundation. This is a great activity for the entire family to engage in!

7. New York City Ballet: The Nutcracker

The New York City ballet in Lincoln Center is one of the most elegant ballet centers and every year they put on the Nutcracker by Tschaikovsky in a two act show. Due to COVID-19 this year, live shows have been put on pause, however you can still get tickets for 2021 in advance and buy a ticket on Marquee TV to watch in the comfort of your own home.

8. Dyker Heights

File:Dyker Heights Christmas Lights.jpg - Wikimedia Commonscommons.wikimedia.org

Dyker Heights, Brooklyn is home to the most festive lights created on the homes of the residents of Dyker Heights for the public. Block after block, you can see the streets light up and people taking photos left and right. It's a must see to believe.

9. Lumino City

Located on Randall's Island, Lumnio City is another beautiful light show with a perfect view of the city! The light displays even go up to 30 feet tall! It includes a 30-45 minute walk between different worlds in stories by Lumi and a great place for kids of all ages.