Top 20 Things to do in Bronx during Christmas Holiday

The Bronx is a magical place during the Christmas season, brimming with culture, lights, and a holiday spirit that warms the coldest of days. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there are countless unique ways to experience the festive charm.

From historic tours to stunning light displays, the Bronx offers unforgettable Christmas experiences. Discover the best activities to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit of this vibrant borough.

New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show

The New York Botanical Garden hosts its iconic Holiday Train Show every year, and it never disappoints. What makes this event special isn’t just the trains, but the fact that they travel through a meticulously crafted miniature version of New York City. All landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge, are made from natural materials like bark, leaves, and acorns.

The attention to detail will astonish you as each mini-scene feels alive with holiday cheer. It’s the perfect spot for families, train enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys intricate displays. Kids will marvel at the magic of the mini-world, while adults appreciate the craftsmanship.

• Model trains weaving through iconic NYC landmarks
• Exquisite natural materials used for buildings and landscapes
• Beautifully lit pathways throughout the display

Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights

The Bronx Zoo becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season, glowing with thousands of sparkling lights and animated sculptures. The Holiday Lights Show transforms the zoo into a whimsical and magical experience, featuring animal-themed lanterns that delight visitors of all ages.

As you walk through the zoo at night, you’ll see tigers, elephants, and more illuminated in brilliant colors. Beyond the lights, there are seasonal treats and hot chocolate stations, making it a cozy outing. Children will love the interactive light displays and the chance to take pictures with festive characters.

• Spectacular animal-shaped lanterns
• Interactive light displays for kids
• Festive food stalls and hot cocoa stations

Arthur Avenue Christmas Shopping Experience

Arthur Avenue, also known as the Bronx’s Little Italy, offers an authentic holiday shopping experience unlike anywhere else in New York City. Strolling down the avenue during Christmas feels like walking through an old European street market, full of traditional Italian delicacies, holiday decorations, and handmade gifts.

The warmth of local merchants and the smell of freshly baked bread fills the air, making it an ideal stop to pick up unique, high-quality gifts for loved ones. Whether you’re shopping for authentic Italian foods like panettone or looking for a cozy café to sip some espresso, this spot will make you feel like family.

• Local shops selling gourmet Italian foods
• Authentic European holiday market vibes
• Family-run bakeries and coffee shops offering seasonal treats

Orchard Beach Winter Stroll

While many think of Orchard Beach as a summer destination, it’s also a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The quiet, snow-dusted shorelines create an atmosphere of peace and beauty. With fewer crowds, you can enjoy a brisk winter walk along the beach with nothing but the sound of waves and the crunch of snow beneath your feet.

For those looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle, Orchard Beach offers the perfect place to take in nature’s holiday gifts. Sunrise or sunset walks here feel especially magical, offering a moment of reflection amidst the holiday excitement.

• Serene winter beach setting
• Quiet trails perfect for a peaceful stroll
• Stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water

Van Cortlandt Park Ice Skating

Van Cortlandt Park turns into a winter paradise during Christmas, and its ice skating rink is one of the most joyful spots in the Bronx. Whether you’re an expert skater or someone just getting started, the outdoor rink offers a fun way to embrace the holiday season. Surrounded by nature, the experience of gliding across the ice in the crisp winter air is exhilarating.

After a spin on the ice, grab some warm cider or hot chocolate from nearby vendors. The rink is family-friendly, and the atmosphere is lively, with holiday music playing in the background to get everyone into the festive mood.

• Outdoor ice skating surrounded by nature
• Hot chocolate and warm cider available from vendors
• Festive holiday music creating a joyful atmosphere

Bronx Terminal Market Holiday Pop-Up

For a more modern Christmas shopping experience, the Bronx Terminal Market hosts an annual holiday pop-up filled with local vendors and artists selling everything from handmade crafts to unique holiday gifts. You can find one-of-a-kind presents for everyone on your list, from handcrafted jewelry to artisanal foods.

Beyond the shopping, the Terminal Market also puts on live performances, bringing in local musicians and dancers to add an extra layer of holiday spirit. It’s a great way to support local businesses while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

• Unique gifts from local artisans and vendors
• Live music and performances throughout the day
• Artisanal foods and holiday treats

Pelham Bay Park Winter Hikes

If you want to get some fresh air during the holiday season, Pelham Bay Park offers guided winter hikes that allow you to explore the beauty of the Bronx’s largest park. During Christmas, the snow-covered trails provide a stunning backdrop for these educational and relaxing hikes.

With the help of a guide, you can learn about the park’s wildlife, history, and unique landscape, all while enjoying a peaceful winter walk. It’s a wonderful way to stay active while still embracing the holiday season.

• Snow-covered trails for peaceful winter walks
• Guided hikes offering educational insights
• Perfect for nature lovers and families

Bronx Museum of the Arts Holiday Exhibits

The Bronx Museum of the Arts is a cultural hub during the holiday season, with special exhibits that reflect the spirit of the holidays. It’s a great stop for those looking to combine art, culture, and celebration in one visit. The museum often curates collections that highlight diverse traditions and the importance of family, community, and giving.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum frequently hosts special holiday events, including workshops, concerts, and performances that bring the community together in a festive, creative atmosphere.

• Special holiday-themed art exhibits
• Workshops and performances for the whole family
• Free admission, making it a budget-friendly holiday activity

St. Nicholas of Tolentine Christmas Concert

For those who love music, the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Christmas Concert is a must-attend event. The church’s soaring architecture provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for carols and classical holiday pieces performed by local choirs and musicians.

The concert captures the emotional essence of Christmas, filling your soul with peace and joy. It’s an event that both lifts your spirits and allows you to reflect on the meaning of the season. The beautiful music echoes through the halls, creating a moving and memorable holiday experience.

• Stunning church architecture enhancing the concert experience
• Classical Christmas carols performed by local musicians
• A peaceful, reflective event for holiday music lovers

Wave Hill Holiday Craft Workshop

If you’re the creative type, then Wave Hill’s Holiday Craft Workshop is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. These workshops provide everything you need to make your own holiday decorations, from wreaths to festive ornaments. The cozy atmosphere and friendly instructors make it a fun and relaxing way to tap into your holiday creativity.

Wave Hill is known for its natural beauty, and its holiday workshops are no exception. The setting adds a touch of magic, as you’re surrounded by beautifully decorated gardens and breathtaking views of the Hudson River.

• Create handmade holiday decorations in a stunning natural setting
• Friendly instructors guide you through crafting unique pieces
• Perfect for families, couples, or solo creative adventurers

Bronx Little Italy Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Bronx Little Italy Tree Lighting Ceremony is one of the most anticipated events of the season. The event brings together the community, local business owners, and visitors for a spectacular tree lighting that illuminates the entire neighborhood. Christmas carols, hot cocoa, and festive cheer fill the air, making it an unforgettable experience.

Arthur Avenue comes alive during this event, with the smell of Italian pastries and hearty meals wafting through the streets. The sense of community and warmth is palpable, making it one of the top things to do in the Bronx during Christmas.

• Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the heart of Little Italy
• Festive caroling and community celebrations
• Enjoy Italian treats and hot cocoa after the ceremony

Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum Candlelight Tours

Step back in time with the Candlelight Tours at Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, where the historic house is transformed into a holiday masterpiece. Adorned with Victorian-style Christmas decorations, the mansion captures the elegance of a 19th-century Christmas celebration.

Guides dressed in period clothing will take you through the rooms, telling stories of past Christmases while soft candlelight flickers. This tour is ideal for history buffs and anyone who loves experiencing the holidays with a touch of nostalgia.

• Victorian-style Christmas decorations throughout the mansion
• Guided candlelight tours with period-dressed storytellers
• Learn about 19th-century Christmas traditions

City Island Holiday Boat Parade

The City Island Holiday Boat Parade is a unique Christmas event that combines the beauty of the season with nautical charm. Boats are decked out in twinkling lights and holiday decorations, cruising along the waterfront for an unforgettable light show on the water.

Whether you’re watching from the docks or aboard one of the boats, the sight of festively lit vessels gliding through the night is truly mesmerizing. This event offers a different way to experience the holiday spirit while embracing the coastal beauty of the Bronx.

• Boats adorned with holiday lights and decorations
• Waterfront views of a mesmerizing holiday light parade
• Great for families and anyone looking for a unique holiday experience

The Grand Concourse Christmas Window Displays

Take a stroll down the Grand Concourse during the holiday season, and you’ll be treated to some of the most impressive window displays in the Bronx. Local businesses go all out, transforming their windows into mini holiday wonderlands that captivate both children and adults alike.

Each window tells a different story, from Santa’s workshop to winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights and animated figures. It’s a free and fun way to soak in the holiday spirit while exploring the heart of the Bronx.

• Stunning holiday window displays along the Grand Concourse
• Local businesses showcasing creativity and festive cheer
• Perfect for a free and festive holiday outing

Yankee Stadium Holiday Market

Yankee Stadium is more than just home to the Bronx Bombers—it also hosts a Holiday Market that brings together local vendors and artisans for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. This market features everything from handmade gifts and holiday décor to delicious local treats.

Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, grab a bite to eat from food stalls, and even take photos with Santa Claus himself. It’s a festive and lively event that offers something for everyone, making it a great stop for families and holiday shoppers alike.

• Unique holiday gifts from local vendors
• Festive food stalls and live entertainment
• Photos with Santa Claus for kids and families

The Bronx River Holiday Paddle

For those seeking a bit of adventure during the holiday season, the Bronx River Holiday Paddle offers a unique way to explore the borough. Guided kayak tours take participants down the Bronx River, where you can experience the beauty of the river and surrounding nature during the quiet winter months.

While it may seem chilly, the paddle provides a peaceful escape from the busyness of holiday festivities. Paddling through serene waters surrounded by snow-covered trees is a refreshing and invigorating way to celebrate the season.

• Guided kayak tours down the Bronx River
• Winter wonderland views from the water
• A peaceful and adventurous holiday activity

Throgs Neck Bridge Christmas Light Cruise

Another water-based holiday experience is the Throgs Neck Bridge Christmas Light Cruise. This evening boat tour takes you under the iconic Throgs Neck Bridge, which is illuminated with dazzling Christmas lights. As you cruise along, enjoy festive drinks and treats while taking in the views of the city skyline and twinkling lights.

The boat’s festive atmosphere, complete with holiday music, makes it a fun and romantic way to spend a winter night. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or a significant other, the cruise offers a magical perspective of the Bronx during Christmas.

• Evening boat cruise under the Throgs Neck Bridge
• Beautiful views of illuminated cityscapes and holiday lights
• Festive drinks and treats served onboard

Woodlawn Cemetery Holiday Memorials

For a more reflective holiday experience, Woodlawn Cemetery hosts special holiday memorials where visitors can honor and remember their loved ones. The cemetery is beautifully decorated with wreaths and lights, creating a peaceful setting for reflection.

During the holidays, the cemetery also offers guided tours that highlight the final resting places of famous individuals, as well as stories about holiday traditions and customs of the past. It’s a thoughtful and meaningful way to spend time during the season, surrounded by history and serenity.

• Peaceful, reflective holiday memorials
• Wreaths and lights decorating the cemetery
• Guided tours exploring holiday traditions and customs

Poe Park Visitor Center Holiday Festivities

Poe Park, named after the famous poet Edgar Allan Poe, becomes a hub of holiday festivities during Christmas. The Poe Park Visitor Center offers seasonal arts and crafts workshops, storytelling sessions, and festive performances, all set against the backdrop of one of the Bronx’s most historic parks.

The park itself is beautifully lit, and visitors can explore Poe’s cottage, where the famous poet once lived. The combination of history, art, and holiday spirit makes this a unique destination for families and literature lovers.

• Holiday arts and crafts workshops for kids and adults
• Festive storytelling and performances
• Explore Edgar Allan Poe’s historic cottage

The Hub Shopping District Holiday Experience

The Hub, located in the heart of the Bronx, is a bustling shopping district that comes alive during the holiday season. Shops are adorned with Christmas lights, and the streets are filled with holiday music and festive decorations. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or simply enjoying the holiday atmosphere, The Hub offers a lively and exciting experience.

Street vendors offer holiday snacks, while pop-up markets feature unique gifts. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the holiday buzz and pick up last-minute presents for loved ones.

• Festive holiday shopping in a bustling district
• Street vendors offering holiday treats
• Pop-up markets with unique gifts

Final Word

There’s no shortage of festive activities when it comes to things to do in the Bronx during the Christmas season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, romantic holiday experiences, or opportunities to explore history and culture, the Bronx offers a rich variety of events and attractions that bring the holiday spirit to life.

From twinkling light displays to cozy workshops and memorable concerts, these 20 activities ensure that everyone finds something to enjoy. So, bundle up, grab your loved ones, and experience the magic of Christmas in the Bronx.