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A familiar setting for some of the best Christmas movies, there’s no better city to visit than New York to get into the holiday spirit. If you find yourself in the Upper West Side this Christmas, consider these activities that help to make the season bright.

Winter’s Eve Tree Lighting Ceremony at Lincoln Square

The Upper West Side’s tree lighting ceremony draws crowds of over 20,000. The party in Dante Park at 63rd Street and Broadway features live music with impressive guests, fine restaurant vendors, shopping and more.  The festivities don’t end here. After the tree is lit, a month of live performances kick off in the Upper West Side on sidewalks along Lincoln Square.

The Nutcracker at the Lincoln Center

Visions of sugar plum fairies don’t have to just dance in your head. The Nutcracker ballet will show at the Lincoln Center through Dec. 31. A New York City holiday tradition for the better half of a century, this ballet will get you and the family in the holiday spirit. Shows typically sell out, so buy in advance.

Columbus Circle Holiday Market

Looking for a unique gift you can’t find just anywhere? Try the holiday market at Columbus Circle, which features local artisanal items made from recycled materials. Browse jewelry, chocolates, home goods and clothing leading up to the holidays. The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is open until Christmas Eve at 59th Street and Central Park West.

Central Park Winter Puppet Show

Each year, the Swedish Cottage in Central Park puts on a holiday puppet show that’s appropriate for all cultures and religions. Tucked away in Central Park, the venue dates back to 1875 and looks like something straight from a children’s storybook. This is a magical experience for little ones.

Christmas Dinner

For an upscale Christmas dinner on the Upper West Side, The Leopard at des Artistes at 1 W 67th St. is open Christmas Day, serving prix fixe southern Italian fair. For American home-cooked meals at a more moderate price, Good Enough to Eat at 520 Columbus Ave. at 85th Street stays open for Christmas and offers a taste of home.

Finally, if you’re thinking of preparing a little something of your own in your kitchenette at Hotel Beacon and you’re missing an ingredient, Zabar’s at 2245 Broadway is open for groceries as well as Mani Market Place at 697 Columbus Ave.

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