NYC Christmas Events: Parties, Outdoor Activities And Shows For Winter Season

The holiday season is the perfect time to get together with friends and family and enjoy the many events that New York City has to offer. Whether you’re interested in spreading good cheer by going Christmas caroling or ice skating at Rockefeller Center, here are a few ideas of events to attend before 2013 is over.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

This annual show, complete with Santas galore, live animals and the famous Rockettes, ends Dec. 30, so this is your final opportunity (until the 2014 holiday season) to buy tickets for one of the most famous musicals in the world. While tickets can be expensive, Groupon is currently offering discounts of up to 50 percent for the “Radio City Christmas Spectacular,” but only for the next three days. Check out the new music, revised costumes, and advanced technology as the world-famous high-kicking dance troupe shows off new and old set pieces this year.

Ice Skating

If you are a fan of cold weather and being outdoors, ice skating at Bryant Park may be the perfect Christmas activity for you and your family. The outdoor rink and open late, though skates cost $14, unless you bring your own. Compared to Rockefeller Center’s $27 price tag, not including the $12 for skate rental, Bryant Park’s deal is quite a steal.

Holiday Market

Before getting a fun workout on the ice skating rink, head to the holiday shops at Bryant Park, which are open until Jan. 5, 2014. The outdoor marketplace provides not only a scenic view of the park but also an array of great gifts at more than 125 boutique-style shops. Check out the jewelry, decorative goods and local foods.

Christmas Eve Caroling

Christmas caroling is one of the best ways to spread holiday cheer this winter season. Whether "Jingle Bells" or “O Little Town of Bethlehem" is your favorite carol, you and your friends or family can head to Washington Square Park on Christmas Eve for a free 5 p.m. performance. The Greenwich Village community has gathered under the Washington Arch and holiday tree for an evening of caroling every year for the past 80 years. It's the perfect family event -- and don’t forget your Santa hat.

Matzo Ball 2013

If partying is up your alley, celebrity hotspot 1OAK is having a Matzo Ball 2013 party on Christmas Eve. Doors open at 10 p.m., and a limited number of tickets are currently available for purchase at $20 each. The club, located on 17^th Street in Chelsea, is one of New York City’s most coveted nightspots, after being mentioned in the press, everywhere from the Daily News to Billboard.