The holidays seem to arrive earlier and pass faster every year, so the best way to make the most of the season is to fill these weeks with festive fun. Beyond classic tree and light displays, New York City offers plenty of holiday pop-ups where you can fully immerse yourself in the spirit complete with seasonal spirits and gift worthy trinkets. Gather your loved ones and make a little Christmas pop-up checklist part of your celebrations this year.
Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays at Greg’s Trees
Discover a spectacular array of Christmas trees and holiday décor from Greg Walsh Jr. at Greg's Trees during a festive season filled with joy and cheer. Greg’s Trees can be found at McCarren Park (Manhattan Ave and Driggs), Domino Park (South 4th Street), Murray Playground (45th Road and 21st Street) in Long Island City, JJ Byrne Playground (5th Ave between 3rd and 4th Street), Greenwood Park Beer Garden (555 7th Ave.), and Hank’s Bar (613 Bushwick Ave) — each transformed into a vibrant winter wonderland filled with festive décor and hand-painted holiday character cutouts perfect for Instagrammable moments. Bring loved ones to enjoy wreath-making, holiday crafts, and the full Greg’s Trees experience that has delivered holiday spirit to New Yorkers for over 35 years. For more information, visit https://gregstrees.com/
Experience Holiday Magic at the Grand Holiday Bazaar on Sundays from 11/30 Through 12/21
Kick off the holiday season and step into Grand Bazaar NYC, the city’s most vibrant and longest-running indoor and outdoor market! Celebrating its 40th anniversary, you can discover a treasure trove of handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and delicious seasonal treats from more than 150 unique vendors at the Grand Holiday Bazaar (100 West 77th St.) every Sunday from November 30th through till December 21st from 10 AM to 5 PM. Whether you choose to snag some cozy knitwear, elevate your holiday celebrations, or bedazzle your home with incredible art and ornaments, Grand Bazaar NYC is the ultimate destination for thoughtful holiday shopping; As a social enterprise that donates its money to four public schools, you’re sure to feel the holiday spirit. For more information visit www.grandbazaarnyc.org
The Holiday Bazaar at Grand Central’s Biltmore Room 12/16 - 12/18
This holiday season, Grand Bazaar NYC is partnering with Made in NYC (MINYC), a nonprofit initiative that supports local manufacturers and makers, to present the Holiday Bazaar at Grand Central from December 16th through December 18th. Set inside the landmark Biltmore Room (at track 39-42), once known as the “Kissing Room,” the three-day shopping experience will feature a curated selection of independent artisans offering handmade crafts, art, jewelry, home goods, and gourmet treats—perfect for holiday gifting. Now in its second year at Grand Central, the Holiday Bazaar advances Grand Bazaar NYC’s mission to champion local makers while doing good for the city—proceeds help fund four local schools and support artisans across the five boroughs.
Photo Courtesy of MTA/Grand Central Terminal
Foxtail’s Holiday Hideaway Opens at Arlo SoHo
Foxtail's Holiday Hideaway (231 Hudson St) has returned to Arlo SoHo. This cozy cocktail den has been transformed into a winter wonderland. Revelers can indulge in a $45 special, which includes two holiday cocktails and an appetizer. Escape the cold with warm seasonal cocktails like Spiked Mexican Hot Cocoa or a Yuletide Toddy in addition to creative holiday concoctions like the Christmas Fruitcake or Tree Topper. Rich flavors of cinnamon, clove and nutmeg enhance the experience, creating a setting where craft cocktail making meets the magic of the holidays. Foxtail's Holiday Hideaway is ideal for intimate gatherings or spirited celebrations with friends, offering a taste of fanciful whimsy. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
Lindens Winter Village: Cabin Dining & Lounge Experience Beginning on 12/1
Experience the magic of the winter season at Lindens Winter Village (2 Renwick Street), housed at Arlo SoHo, where three cozy yurts offer distinct holiday cabin experiences beginning December 1st. Select your ideal winter retreat: an intimate culinary experience for two, a shared holiday dinner for parties up to eight, or a private lounge featuring exclusive cocktails and personalized service. Each yurt is individually heated for comfort and decked out for the holidays offering a warm, elevated escape from the cold. Reservations can be made via Lindens Winter Village.
Haven Ski Chalet
Haven Rooftop above The Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in the heart of Times Square is getting ready for diners to celebrate this Christmas season at Haven Ski Chalet beginning on November 27th. Visitors will be surrounded by holiday decor including cranberry bundles and holly arching its way above each table, with shimmering Christmas lights overhead, evergreen garlands, and flannel pillows and blankets. From 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, enjoy a delicious brunch menu paired with bottomless mimosas and bellinis (with the purchase of an entrée, 1-hour limit). Haven Ski Chalet offers the perfect setting for a cozy and unforgettable holiday brunch. To reserve your spot and make this holiday season one to remember, visit www.havenrooftop.com.
“A Season of Sparkle” at Canto West Village & Canto Upper West Side
This holiday season, Canto is celebrating A Season of Sparkle by transforming both its West Village and Upper West Side locations into radiant, festively adorned havens. From a shimmering “waterfall” of ornaments and hanging poinsettias downtown to soaring vaulted ceilings wrapped in spiraling garlands uptown, each location offers its own expression of cozy, sophisticated holiday magic—refined, inviting, and unmistakably Canto. Guests can enjoy rotating holiday specials alongside the restaurant’s famed Frozen Espresso Martini, a fan favorite even in below-zero temperatures. All décor is designed by New York Backdrops.
Sip, Celebrate & Deck the Halls at Elsie Rooftop's Holiday Market - 12/11, 12/14 & 12/21
Elsie Rooftop (1412 Broadway, 25th Floor) is transforming into a festive wonderland leading up to Christmas. A Holiday Market will be unveiled this holiday season on the three Sundays - December 7th, 14th, and 21st from 3pm - 6pm. Guests can enjoy interactive holiday stations including stocking and ornament decorating, gingerbread decorating, and a three-hour open bar featuring a Build-Your-Own Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar. Soak in seasonal music, sip on festive drinks, and mingle with friends and fellow holiday enthusiasts in the heart of the city for a spirited, 21+ celebration of the season. Secure your tickets by visiting: https://tickets.elsierooftop.com/e/holiday-market-elsie-rooftop
