Blog

What is the holiday season without overindulging? It’s the only time of year everyone turns a blind eye to eating too much, drinking too much, and spending too much – the perfect recipe for two weeks (or longer!) of spoiling yourself and your family.

New York City has always been one of the best cities in the world to spend Christmas, and for the “self-indulgers” among you there is no better time to explore the Big Apple and all its festive treats.

Christmas Markets

Anyone who has previously visited a Christmas Market will know they’re the first stop for trying the best winter treats. Holiday Markets appear all over NYC in the run up to Christmas and whether it’s a hot chocolate, Panettone, or a gingerbread house you’re craving - there are endless markets to choose from. 

Bank of America Winter Village – Bryant Park

Located in Bryant Park, the pop-up winter village is inspired by the European Christmas Markets and includes all your favorite goodies. Sample hot and cold snacks, sweet treats or an adult drink whilst you explore the stalls. Like any good Christmas Market, you will also find an ice-skating rink, a giant Christmas Tree and private heated igloos to enjoy an evening of great food and drink, with a difference.

Urban Space Union Square Holiday Market – Union Square

If you’re in NYC over the Christmas period, the Urban Space Holiday Market is a must see. The market is home to over 160 vendors including several food and drink stalls, offering samples from some of the best food and drink outlets from the area. Last year’s event was unfortunately cancelled due to COVID19 - but the Market is back this year and promises to be better than ever and it's just minutes from the Hotel Beacon. 

Christmas Cocktails

Like food, alcohol is another treat that we can’t get enough of around Christmas time. From special winter cocktails to adult hot-chocolate, Christmas drinks can be enjoyed all over the Upper West Side throughout December and early January. 

The Lodge – Bryant Park

As previously mentioned, the Bank of America Winter Village is a great place to sample festive food and drink, and if you’re a cocktail lover – don’t miss visiting the Lodge. Located within the village, beside the ice rink, the lodge has plenty of food and drink vendors from some of NYC’s best eateries, and more importantly, there are plenty of themed cocktail bars!

Miracle - (various locations)

Miracle bars are pop-up Christmas cocktail bars that appear all over the USA (and internationally) in December. The bars are famous for their great Christmas themed cocktails and over-the-top Christmas décor – the perfect place to get into the spirit. There are three different Miracle bars local to The Beacon Hotel this year – you can find them here.

Rolf’s – 281 Third Avenue

Looking for traditional Christmas décor, mulled wine or eggnog and a traditional meal? Rolf’s – a German Restaurant – is famous for their spectacular Christmas decorations throughout the Christmas period. If you want to eat inside, it’s best to make a reservation – but if you’re just stopping by for a Christmas cocktail or traditional Christmas drink, just pop in.

Santa’s Secret Pop-Up – Level 5 Hudson Yards

From the 1st of December, on Thursdays through Sundays, the pop-up Christmas installation offers an immersive North Pole experience. With living Gingerbread and life-sized snow globes, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. As you reach the end of Santa’s Secret Pop-up, there is live music and, of course, those all-important Christmas cocktails to take the edge off the cold. 

If you’re spending Christmas in NYC, the Beacon Hotel is in the heart of all the action. Learn more about our apartment-style suites just a stone’s throw from Central Park and Broadway.