How to Celebrate the Holidays in New York Like a Local

New Yorkers enjoy the city's festive traditions just as much as visitors, indulging in hot chocolate and holiday treats. However, the crowds and high prices can often be overwhelming. Fortunately, locals have discovered ways to experience New York’s holiday magic with minimal hassle. From off-hours visits to popular sights to finding quieter shopping spots, here’s how to enjoy the season with ease.

Must-See Holiday Displays

Despite the cancellation of the iconic Saks light show this year, other retailers have continued the tradition of decking out their windows. Bergdorf Goodman’s holiday displays are always a treat, with this year’s theme marking the 200th anniversary of Fifth Avenue’s opening. The displays feature whimsical tributes to the New York Public Library and its famous marble lions. To avoid the crowds, try viewing the windows early in the morning or late at night, just like the crowded Rockefeller Center tree.

Louis Vuitton’s flagship store is also taking part in the festive cheer. Its facade has been transformed into a giant “gift-wrapped” package using the brand’s signature travel trunks.

Festive Trees and Carols

Smaller but just as charming, Christmas trees have lit up parks like Tompkins Square in the East Village, Dumbo in Brooklyn, and Washington Square in the West Village. On Christmas Eve, join the tradition of caroling at Washington Square Park. The Rob Susman Brass Quartet performs from 5 to 6 p.m. The atmosphere is festive, and despite the crowds, it's hard not to feel the holiday cheer.

Holiday Shows at Great Prices

New Yorkers can enjoy holiday spectacles at a lower cost by attending quieter times. For instance, the Bronx’s Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is captivating, with miniature train displays of the city ($35 for adults, $25 for children). Brooklyn’s Lightscape ($36 for adults) at the Botanic Garden features stunning light installations perfect for holiday selfies.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art also stays open late on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a peaceful place to enjoy their famous Christmas tree and Neapolitan baroque crèche ($30 for adults). Similarly, the Museum of the City of New York offers a quieter experience with their Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off, featuring architectural gingerbread creations on display until Jan. 12 ($23 for adults).

Hidden Gems for Holiday Shopping

Avoid the crowded big-box stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s and explore more niche shopping spots like Delphinium Home in Hell’s Kitchen, where you can find quirky holiday ornaments and fun gifts. Another hidden gem is the Arthur Avenue Retail Market in the Bronx, which features La Casa Grande, where you can watch cigar rollers at work while shopping for Italian specialties.

For unique items, visit the Tenement Museum's gift shop on the Lower East Side, where you’ll find Gotham-themed books and subway map wrapping paper. Economy Candy, a 1937 gem, sells nostalgic treats like Pop Rocks and rare candy bars, and they offer a quick pickup option if you want to skip the lines.

Festive Drinks without the Crowds

Although places like Rolf’s, a German restaurant near Gramercy Park, are already fully booked, Pete’s Tavern nearby offers a festive atmosphere and eggnog spiked with bourbon ($20). For a cozy, crowd-free spot, head to Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel, where you can enjoy a classic martini ($25) by arriving early in the day.

New York is also home to some of the best hot chocolate. Frenchette Bakery at the Whitney Museum serves a thick, creamy hot chocolate ($10) with a toasted marshmallow wedge, while Dominique Ansel’s version in SoHo ($11) is a masterpiece topped with a blooming marshmallow. Other great options include Jacques Torres in Dumbo, with their spicy chipotle-infused “wicked” hot chocolate ($4-$5.50), and MarieBelle in SoHo, offering a spiced blend of chilies, cinnamon, and nutmeg ($8).

Off-the-Beaten-Path Holiday Fun

For a less-crowded experience, try Roni-Sue’s Chocolates in the Lower East Side, where you can enjoy frothy hot chocolate made with 65% Dominican cacao and steamed milk ($5).

Unique Holiday Shopping Finds

Instead of the usual department store rush, explore quirky shops like Fishs Eddy, which offers mix-and-match dishware, or Exit 9 Gift Emporium, which features NYC-themed gifts like felted pizza rat ornaments. If you're searching for something out of the ordinary, the Grand Central Holiday Fair or Bryant Park’s outdoor markets are great places to find unique, handmade gifts.

New York’s holiday season may seem overwhelming, but with these tips, you can enjoy the festivities like a true local—stress-free and full of cheer.