Best Of The Holidays: NYC Family Guide 2012

The holidays are one of our favorite times of the year, when the city transforms into a real-life winter wonderland. From illuminated trees and gingerbread workshops to “Nutcracker” adaptations and holiday markets, here’s everything you need to know about the festive shindigs happening in the next few weeks.

Great Holiday Tree Lightings and Displays
The most awe-inspiring of 2012′s glittering trees, both indoors and out.

 

 

Under-The-Radar Holiday Lights Around NYC
Don’t forget these four lesser-known spots for holiday lights that are totally worth visiting!

 

 

7 Stunning Department Store Holiday Windows
A glimpse into the displays Macy’s, Barneys, Bloomindale’s, Lord & Taylor, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

 

 

Ho, Ho, Ho! Where To Meet Santa This Year
Snap a photo, enjoy a yummy breakfast, or even go on a cruise with the jolly St. Nick!

 

 

Children’s Holiday Theater Around NYC
Some classics, some new theater, and some outside-of-the-box ideas for live shows that you can enjoy with the kids.

 


Family-Friendly “Nutcracker” Performances All Ages Will Love
Our favorites for classic ballets and contemporary renditions that everyone can enjoy.

 

 

Navigating NYC’s Bustling Holiday Markets
What to expect at the season’s glorious pop-up shops—fun to browse with or without a shopping list!

 

 

Gingerbread Workshops Around NYC
Sweeten up the holidays with your kids by attending a gingerbread class or party!

 

 

19 Hanukkah Celebrations We Love
Get ready for eight days filled with a lat(ke) of fun. (Get it, get it?)

 

 

 

ALSO DON’T MISS:

8 Wintry Recipes Just In Time For The Holidays
Eggnog cheesecake, snowman bread, funfetti popcorn, and other irresistibly festive treats.

 

 

A DivaLysscious Local Mom Suggests The Best Holiday Buys For Parents
Don’t know what to buy the mom or dad who has it all? Here are some suggestions for finds that every city parent would want to unwrap.

 

 

Our 2012 Toy Guide With Picks For All Ages
With the chill in the air comes an ineffable sense of magic and anticipation. Is it the spirit of the season, or all these great new toys to delight little ones?

 

 

Homepage thumbnail by Noel Y. C.

Relevant Directory Listings

See More

HudsonWay Immersion School

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">A pioneer in language immersion since 2005. After school language classes provide a fun and effective way for preschool and elementary children to learn Mandarin or Spanish language skills through project based learning and fun, engaging themes.</span></p>

Treehouse Shakers

<div>Treehouse Shakers’ Branching OUT After-School program is for ages 12-14. This awarded program is for young people who identify as LGBTQIA+, or are seeking to become better allies. Branching OUT centers on discovering and exploring one’s story and identity through an intentionally artist-led format. During our community-based program, young people will explore and reflect on their own story to create a larger, more meaningful experience, while gaining self-empowerment and gathering with like-minded peers. Through the guidance of our awarded teaching artists, young people will create narratives that will be turned into podcasts, dances, songs or poetry. </div> <div> </div> <div>Young people have the opportunity to learn new art forms, work with professional artists, while building a meaningful community.</div>

Asphalt Green

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">Asphalt Green’s high-quality sports programs start at 4 months old. Two beautiful facilities in vibrant Manhattan neighborhoods provide the optimal space for children to learn the fundamentals, play for leisure, or compete at the highest level.<br />As the leading sports and fitness facility in Manhattan, Asphalt Green’s never-before- seen training methods focus on improving your mental and physical game. Whether participating in swim, soccer, flag football, martial arts, basketball, baseball, tennis, or volleyball, coaches instill values that set athletes up for success in life and bring out their full potential in sports.</span></p>