New York City transforms into a festive wonderland in December, offering a diverse array of experiences from traditional markets to innovative wellness retreats. Whether you are looking for unique gifts or a relaxing escape from the cold, the five boroughs provide numerous ways to celebrate the season.
Seasonal Markets and Artisanal Shopping
In Brooklyn, the Usagi Holiday Market in Dumbo offers a serene destination for cultural discovery and design-driven gifting through December 24. Located at Usagi NY, this market features a curated lineup of Japanese brands, including premium dashi producer Kayanoya. Visitors can sample authentic Japanese flavors such as miso soups and sea salts while learning about the fundamental role of umami in home cooking.
In Tribeca, the Walker Hotel is launching a multi-weekend Winter Market starting December 5. This curated event features high-end local businesses, including millinery studio Mains de Vapeur and luxury shoemaker Marie Laffont. Visitors can browse one-of-a-kind products while enjoying seasonal beverages. For those looking for a traditional Parisian experience, the Printemps holiday stations offer French-inspired sweets and mulled wine alongside a massive gingerbread replica of the Arc de Triomphe.
Nordic Traditions and Culinary Celebrations
Scandinavian influences are prominent in the city this year. KABIN brings Norwegian customs to the forefront with its weekly Julebord feasts featuring traditional meatballs and smoked salmon waffles. Guests can also enjoy small-batch barrel-aged glogg or celebrate Santa Lucia Day on December 13 with live choral performances and saffron buns.
For those seeking a cozy indoor dining experience, Society Cafe in Greenwich Village provides a fireside fondue dinner. This intimate meal includes savory cheese and sweet chocolate courses served beside a crackling fireplace with live jazz accompaniment.
For those navigating the holiday crowds near Madison Square Garden, Mustang Harry’s provides a post industrial winter respite. This Irish gastropub is fully dressed in festive holiday decor from Thanksgiving through December. Their seasonal drink menu highlights comforting choices like the Winter Warmer with spiced frothed milk and a signature Irish Coffee topped with whiskey infused creme fraiche.
Winter Wellness and Outdoor Escapes
Wellness enthusiasts can find relaxation at several rooftop and waterfront destinations. QC New York on Governors Island offers a spa of wonders experience featuring 98-degree heated outdoor pools. On Saturday afternoons, guests can enjoy poolside candlelight concerts performed by string quartets. The experience includes access to over 30 wellness amenities and a nightly Italian aperitivo service.
In Brooklyn, the William Vale has reopened its Nordic-inspired winter spa on the fourth-floor terrace. This retreat features cedar barrel saunas and hot tubs with views of the Manhattan skyline. Similarly, the Rockaway Hotel and Spa has transformed its pool deck into an alpine oasis. Open through April 2026, this wellness retreat features saunas, heated pools, and red light therapy.
Families can also visit Greg’s Trees at locations such as McCarren Park and Domino Park. These sites offer much more than tree shopping, providing hand-paintedhand-painted character cutouts for photography and interactive craft workshops such as wreath-making. These installations ensure that the holiday spirit is accessible in neighborhoods across the entire city.
