Christmas Eve in NYC 2026: What to Do on December 24

Christmas Eve 2026 falls on a Thursday. Much of New York stays open during the day, then the city slows as evening falls, which makes it one of the most atmospheric nights to be here. Here’s how to spend it.

During the Day

• Last-minute shopping: the Union Square and Grand Central markets are open on Dec 24 with shorter hours (Grand Central until 6 p.m.).
• Shows: many holiday shows have Christmas Eve matinees, including the Rockettes, the Nutcracker and New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker (1 p.m.).
• Skating at Wollman, Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center.

In the Evening

• Washington Square caroling at 5 p.m. under the arch (details).
• The Rockefeller tree and Fifth Avenue windows are less crowded late on Christmas Eve.
• Midnight Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral — tickets are distributed in advance; other services throughout the evening are open. Many Manhattan churches hold candlelight services and carols.

Where to Eat

Many restaurants serve special Christmas Eve menus, including the Italian-American Feast of the Seven Fishes. Book well ahead; see our Christmas restaurants guide.

What Closes Early

Most stores, museums and markets close early on Dec 24. Subway service runs on a normal schedule, though some routes may run less frequently late at night.

A Christmas Eve Plan

• Morning: a last stroll through the Union Square market or Grand Central Holiday Fair before they close early.
• Afternoon: a matinee: the Rockettes, the Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol.
• 5 p.m.: carols under the Washington Square Arch.
• Evening: Feast of the Seven Fishes at an Italian restaurant.
• Late: a candlelit church service, or a quiet walk past the Rockefeller tree.

Christmas Eve Church Services

Many of New York’s historic churches hold beautiful Christmas Eve services, often with outstanding choirs. St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s Midnight Mass is the most famous and requires tickets distributed in advance through the cathedral; earlier services are typically open but fill up. Trinity Church Wall Street, St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine also hold Christmas Eve services. Check each church’s website for times and any ticketing, and arrive early.

The Feast of the Seven Fishes

This Italian-American Christmas Eve tradition features a meal of several seafood dishes. Restaurants in Little Italy, on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx and across the city offer special menus. Reserve well ahead; see our Christmas restaurants guide.

Last-Minute Gifts

Department stores and many shops stay open during the day on Christmas Eve but close earlier than usual. The holiday markets are your best bet for unique gifts. See our New York gift ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What day is Christmas Eve 2026?

Thursday, December 24, 2026.

What is open on Christmas Eve in NYC?

Most stores, restaurants, markets and attractions are open with shorter hours. The Rockefeller tree, lights and windows are viewable all evening.

Do I need tickets for Midnight Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral?

Yes, Midnight Mass requires tickets distributed in advance by the cathedral. Earlier Christmas Eve services are typically open but fill up early.

Are Broadway shows open on Christmas Eve?

Many shows hold Christmas Eve matinees and some evening performances; check each show’s schedule.