Think you know all about NYC’s Christmas trees? Think again! As a long-time New York holiday enthusiast, I’ve uncovered twinkling gems far beyond the famed Rockefeller Center tree. Join me on a magical tour through the city’s forest of festivities, uncovering secret holiday spots that will transform your New York Christmas experience. Get ready to deck the halls, New York style!
The 18 Most Beautiful Christmas Trees in NYC
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01
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the largest Christmas trees in NYC, placed annually in Rockefeller Center Plaza. In New York, the Tree Lighting Ceremony right after Thanksgiving is the official start of the Holiday season. Over the past years, we weren’t super lucky with the weather but the Tree Lighting Ceremony attracts tons of people every year. Of course, the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is the highlight of visitors coming to New York from all over the world during Christmas time. Most visitors only know the tree from movies or pictures, so it’s very impressive looking at it in person. This year, the lighting of the tree ceremony at Rockefeller Center will take place on Wednesday, December 1st, 2021.
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02
Wall Street Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Financial District
The Christmas tree on Wall Street looks back on a long tradition: this year it can be seen for the 100th time. Not only is the tree itself festively decorated – the building of the New York Stock Exchange also looks beautiful, as it is illuminated from the outside in Christmas colors.
The 100th Annual Tree Lighting will take place on November 29, 2023 from 2 pm – 6 pm.
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03
FOX News Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
Positioned in front of FOX News Channel’s Manhattan headquarters on Avenue of the Americas, the FOX News Christmas tree is a beacon of holiday cheer in the heart of the city. The annual tree lighting ceremony is an event to behold, drawing in onlookers from near and far. The tree itself stands tall, decorated with brilliant ornaments that mirror the vibrancy of Midtown. This spectacle adds a special touch to the holiday season, making it a must-visit destination on your holiday itinerary. It is located on 6th Avenue between 47th and 48th Street.
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04
Brookfield Place Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Battery Park City
Overlooking the Hudson River, the tree at Brookfield Place is an underrated beauty. With its dazzling lights reflecting on the water, it creates a magical ambiance. Winter Garden often hosts special Christmas events and is home to a variety of luxury stores and restaurants, and you can marvel at the famous Luminaries there, too!
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05
American Museum of Natural History’s Origami Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Upper West Side
The Origami Christmas Tree at the American Museum of Natural History is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Picture a towering Christmas tree decorated with thousands of meticulously hand-folded origami pieces. It’s an artistic feat that captures the essence of both the season and the museum’s diverse collections. From dinosaurs and galaxies to butterflies and sea creatures, it’s like exploring the whole museum on a single tree.
Additionally, this one-of-a-kind tree stands as a testament to patience and craftsmanship, as each origami figure is created by local, national, and international origami artists. This imaginative and beautiful approach to Christmas tree decoration is sure to fill you with holiday spirit, making a visit to the museum during Christmas an unforgettable experience.
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06
Bryant Park Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
The Bryant Park Christmas tree is part of the larger Winter Village, which is filled with tiny, charming shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal foods. Skaters twirl on the ice rink below, making the atmosphere joyfully festive. The park is centrally located and easy to reach, making it a must-see destination.
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07
Lincoln Square Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Upper West Side
The Lincoln Square Christmas tree, which towers over Dante Park, marks the start of the annual Winter’s Eve Festival. This festival, the city’s largest holiday event, is a lively affair full of music, food, and street performances. The tree, a glittering symbol of holiday spirit, enhances the park’s charm, making it a magical place to visit during the holiday season. As you walk around, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere, the aroma of holiday treats, and the melody of carols filling the air.
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08
DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Christmas Tree in Dumbo
What the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony is to Manhattan, the DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is to Brooklyn. For the 16th time, Brooklyn’s most famous Christmas tree will be ceremoniously lit end of November 2023.
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09
Madison Square Park’s Tree
Christmas Tree in Flatiron District
The Christmas tree in Madison Square Park is a historic tradition that dates back to 1912, making it one of NYC’s oldest tree lighting ceremonies. Amidst the park’s verdant spaces and art installations, the glowing tree offers a warming sight to locals and tourists alike. It’s like a living piece of history, echoing the stories and memories of Christmases past.
Beyond its historical significance, the Madison Square Park Tree also offers the opportunity to engage with the vibrant local community. Nearby, you’ll find popular dining spots such as the original Shake Shack, where you can grab a hot chocolate or a hearty burger. So, visiting the Madison Square Park’s Tree not only lets you experience a time-honored tradition but also the buzzing life of the city.
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10
Dante Park’s Winter’s Eve Tree
Christmas Tree in Upper West Side
Dante Park’s Winter’s Eve Tree is more than just a Christmas tree—it’s the highlight of a spectacular city-wide celebration. This towering beauty serves as the kickoff point for the Winter’s Eve festivities, New York’s largest holiday festival. As the tree lights up, it signals the beginning of an evening filled with music, dance, food, and a vibrant celebration of the city’s diverse culture.
The Winter’s Eve Tree is a symbol of unity and community spirit. Its twinkling lights bring people together, encouraging them to embrace the festive cheer and the city’s rich cultural offerings. If you’re looking for a lively, fun-filled way to celebrate Christmas in NYC, Dante Park and its spectacular tree should definitely be on your list.
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11
Christmas Tree at Lotte New York Palace
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
The Lotte New York Palace is known for its annual Christmas spectacle that lights up Madison Avenue. Its grand tree, twinkling with thousands of lights, is nestled in the hotel’s beautiful courtyard, right against the backdrop of the historic Villard Mansion. The tree’s magnificent display is reflected on the mansion’s windows, doubling the magical effect. The lavish adornments of the tree, together with the surrounding holiday decor, create a wondrous Yuletide atmosphere. As you stand there admiring the tree, the city’s noise fades into the background, replaced by a feeling of holiday tranquillity.
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12
Carl Schurz Park Tree
Christmas Tree in Upper East Side
This neighborhood gem on the Upper East Side offers a local and tranquil tree lighting experience. Take the 4, 5, or 6 train to 86th Street. The park, overlooking the East River, provides a serene escape from the city buzz
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13
Cathedral of St. John the Divine’s Peace Tree
Christmas Tree in Harlem & Washington Heights
Nestled within the world’s largest cathedral, the Peace Tree at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is a beacon of tranquility and serenity. This awe-inspiring tree is adorned with hundreds of paper cranes, symbolizing peace and goodwill. Amidst the cathedral’s stunning architecture and sacred artworks, the tree stands out as a powerful testament to the hope and joy of the season.
Not only is the Peace Tree a sight to behold, but its setting within the cathedral amplifies its significance. As you explore the cathedral’s cavernous interiors, stained glass windows, and intricate carvings, the tree serves as a warm, glowing reminder of the enduring message of peace that Christmas brings.
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14
The Dyker Heights Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Dyker Heights
The Dyker Heights Christmas Tree is part of a larger, community-led spectacle that has transformed this Brooklyn neighborhood into a holiday wonderland. Each year, residents of Dyker Heights compete to outdo each other with their festive home decorations, and the centerpiece of it all is the neighborhood’s grand Christmas tree. Dressed in dazzling lights and ornamental glory, it becomes a beacon that draws admirers from far and wide.
What’s unique about the Dyker Heights Christmas Tree is the collective spirit it embodies. The tree is not merely a neighborhood decoration; it’s a symbol of unity, joy, and community pride. As you stroll through the festive lanes and witness the incredible decorations, the Dyker Heights Christmas Tree stands tall, representing the heart of this local Christmas tradition. Visiting this tree is more than just a sightseeing experience—it’s a chance to participate in an authentic, warm, and joyous New York Christmas celebration.
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15
Central Park’s Charles A. Dana Discovery Center Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Harlem & Washington Heights
The Christmas tree at Central Park’s Charles A. Dana Discovery Center offers more than just festive cheer—it offers breathtaking waterfront views. Standing tall over the Harlem Meer, the tree adds an extra layer of charm to the picturesque landscape. Its twinkling lights reflecting off the water is a sight to behold, perfect for those Instagram-worthy holiday pictures.
After you’ve admired the tree, why not make the most of your Central Park visit? The park, with its winding paths, serene ponds, and historic landmarks, invites you for a leisurely stroll or a fun snowball fight. A trip to the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center Tree lets you enjoy the best of nature and festivity in NYC’s most iconic park.
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16
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Upper East Side
The Christmas tree at The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an absolute work of art. Beneath its dazzling branches sits a stunning 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene, making it more than just a tree—it’s a museum exhibit that beautifully captures the spirit of the season. Every detail, from the figurines to the crèche, has been meticulously crafted, showcasing the artistic excellence the museum is known for.
This extraordinary tree serves as a beautiful complement to the museum’s vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. A trip to see this tree offers the perfect blend of Christmas magic and cultural exploration. And let’s not forget, as you traverse the museum’s many galleries and exhibits, the sight of this grand tree provides a delightful festive surprise.
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17
Washington Square Park Tree
Christmas Tree in Greenwich Village
Located under the iconic Washington Square Arch, this tree is a charming sight. The tree lighting ceremony, accompanied by caroling, marks the beginning of the holiday season in Greenwich Village. As the tree illuminates the park, the area takes on a joyous atmosphere, with locals and tourists joining in the festivities. This tree is a delightful part of New York’s holiday scene, creating a classic setting for holiday pictures and memories.
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18
World Trade Center Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree in Financial District
Situated in the heart of the reimagined World Trade Center, this Christmas tree stands as a symbol of resilience and hope. Its lights shimmer against the modern architectural marvels, creating a beautiful contrast. Each year, the tree lighting event brings together New Yorkers and visitors in a celebration of unity and holiday spirit. This is an extraordinary tree with an extraordinary story, making it a must-visit during the holiday season.
