The Best Christmas Shows in NYC to See This Season

When the holidays arrive, New York City transforms into a dazzling stage of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and unforgettable performances. From the timeless Radio City Christmas Spectacular to elegant ballet classics and heartwarming Broadway musicals, the Big Apple’s holiday lineup truly captures the magic of the season. 

Whether you’re planning a special family outing, a romantic date night, or a festive solo adventure, there’s no better way to celebrate December than by experiencing the best Christmas shows in NYC.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

No list of Christmas shows in NYC would be complete without mentioning the world-famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the legendary Rockettes. A New York tradition since 1933, this show combines high-kicking choreography, stunning visual effects, and heartwarming holiday vignettes that delight audiences of all ages. From Santa’s sleigh to the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” every moment sparkles with holiday joy.

The best part? Radio City Music Hall is just a 10-minute walk from The Belvedere Hotel. That means you can bundle up, stroll through the festive lights of Sixth Avenue, and arrive right at one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks. 

The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center

If you’re looking for something more elegant and timeless, The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center in NYC is an absolute must. Performed by the New York City Ballet, this production is a cornerstone of the city’s holiday arts scene. George Balanchine’s choreography, the grand sets, and Tchaikovsky’s soaring score bring the story of Clara, her Nutcracker Prince, and the Land of Sweets to life in spectacular fashion.

Lincoln Center is located about 10 minutes away from The Belvedere Hotel by rideshare, or a quick 20-minute walk if you want to take in the city’s holiday lights along the way. This performance is one of the most beloved Christmas shows in NYC for both locals and visitors, offering a truly magical evening of music, movement, and nostalgia.

Broadway’s Brightest Holiday Productions

New York’s Broadway theaters are world-famous year-round, but during the holidays, the energy is extra special. From festive musical revivals to feel-good family productions, there’s something for everyone.

One of the standout Christmas Broadway shows this season is “A Christmas Carol”, an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale. With lush costumes, live music, and a moving message of redemption, it’s the perfect holiday outing for theatergoers who crave a mix of spectacle and heart. This year, it’s showing at the Perelman Performing Arts Center, about a 25-minute rideshare from the Belvedere Hotel. 

For something with a more modern twist, catch Trans‑Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve, a rock-opera holiday show that blends electrifying music, lasers, pyrotechnics, and festive storytelling. With larger-than-life visuals and a soaring soundtrack, it brings a fresh, high-energy spin to holiday entertainment. While the location is about an hour rideshare from the Belvedere, this holiday spectacular is well worth the trip. 

Off-Broadway, Intimate Holiday Gems, and Seasonal Specials

Beyond the big lights of Broadway, New York’s smaller theaters and Off-Broadway venues offer hidden gems that capture the heart and humor of the holidays

Intimate Holiday Gems

For something a little more intimate and offbeat, check out “A Swinging Birdland Christmas” at Birdland Jazz Club & Theater, one of New York’s most beloved holiday traditions. Featuring an all-star lineup of jazz musicians and vocalists performing festive classics with a big band twist, this lively show fills the cozy West 44th Street venue with warmth, rhythm, and holiday cheer. 

Located just a seven-minute walk from The Belvedere Hotel, Birdland offers an inviting, laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a memorable evening of live music and seasonal spirit away from the Broadway crowds.

Head to Carnegie Hall (about a 15-minute walk from The Belvedere) for a selection of festive performances, from the New York Pops Holiday Concert to Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along, both offering uplifting seasonal music in a world-class setting.

Seasonal Specials

In addition to the city’s traditional Christmas stage shows, NYC is brimming with live concerts and one-night-only holiday events.

On December 16, 2025, St. Bartholomew’s Church will host The Joyous Christmas Concert. This holiday concert features beloved traditional carols as well as festive new arrangements of sacred and secular Christmas favorites. If you’re staying at The Belvedere Hotel, you’re in excellent proximity: the church is only about a 20-minute walk, making it an easy and festive stroll through Manhattan’s holiday-lit streets.

For gospel, jazz, or choral performances, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine (about a 20-minute rideshare) often hosts breathtaking Christmas Eve and holiday concerts in its awe-inspiring Gothic space.

Make The Belvedere Your Home for the Holidays

After an evening spent marveling at the best Christmas shows in NYC, there’s nothing better than returning to the cozy comfort of The Belvedere Hotel. Located just steps from the Theater District and Rockefeller Center, it’s the perfect home base for anyone eager to experience the city’s festive energy up close.

From Broadway blockbusters to intimate holiday cabarets, the magic of the season is all within walking distance of your stay. 

Book your room at The Belvedere Hotel and enjoy a warm, inviting retreat in the heart of New York’s holiday wonderland, where every night feels like opening night.