The Nutcracker and Times Square
Evening // The Nutcracker
It’s toy soldier time! This year the New York City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center through January 3. Get ready for mischievous mice, the Land of Sweets and a glowing one-ton Christmas tree. Add delicious dancing and you have a true city Christmas classic.
New Year’s Eve // Times Square
If you’re not up for high-energy dancing at a posh West Side club such as Pacha New York, consider the most democratic after-hours party you’ll ever attend—head to Times Square for the 11,875-pound Waterford crystal-encrusted sphere’s 60-second drop.
GILT
Dinner // GILT
Treat yourself to a holiday repast amid the gilded walls and cathedral ceilings of this redone Gilded Age gem inside The New York Palace Hotel. Think suckling pig with olives, fennel and cipollini onions.
Ice Skate in Central Park and Fifth Avenue
Morning // Ice Skate in Central Park
Take a brisk walk though Central Park and warm up with a few turns around Wollman Rink. For frosty fun with a better buffer from the wind, try the ice rink at Rockefeller Center.
Afternoon // Fifth Avenue
The fabulous Fifth Avenue holiday window displays at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor and Macy’s are a hit with grownups and kids alike. For a fabulous range of vintage toys, grab a cab and take the kids to Alphaville in the West Village.
The Pierre
Where to Stay // The Pierre
This emblematic Fifth Avenue grand-dame has emerged sparkling after a $100 million renovation. Heads of state and celebrities of all stripes have either dined or stayed here.