Christmas in New York City
New York City is a renowned destination for holiday cheer. The city is adorned with dazzling lights and elaborate decorations that create a magical atmosphere! The holiday season kicks off with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, featuring spectacular floats, giant balloons, and Broadway performances. The festive spirit continues across the city with numerous Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and elaborate department store window displays. Central Park is a picturesque landscape for winter activities, while landmarks like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the holiday windows of Fifth Avenue have become must-see attractions.
Some of the Christmas time traditions in New York are over 100 years old and have become long standing holiday traditions. With the 1874 display of R. H. Macy’s “grand illumination” of 14th Street and Sixth Avenue, spurring the beautiful tradition of Christmas storefronts in New York City. During the Great Depression, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, first assembled in 1931 to celebrate Christmas time.
Pair Your New York Christmas Storytime with
Christmas Movies Featuring Christmas in New York
The enchanting scenery of New York City all in lights for the holiday season has become part of many families’ holiday movie lineup! Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Elf are two holiday film classics that showcase the magic and charm of New York City during the holiday season! These holiday films would be the perfect compliment to a storytime with kids books featuring New York City!
As you follow along young Kevin McCallister in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,” and his adventure in the Big Apple and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Central Park, the Plaza Hotel, towering skyscrapers and rows of brownstones, the film beautifully showcases New York’s festive atmosphere, adding a touch of magic and excitement to his Christmas adventure.
In “Elf,” Buddy the Elf spreads Christmas cheer throughout New York City! The scenes are set against the dazzling lights of Times Square, beautifully decorated Gimbels department store, Central Park, and the festive buzz of NYC streets. The city’s festive backdrop creates a delightful and whimsical Christmas experience. These movies not only provide holiday entertainment but also offer a wonderful glimpse into how New York City transforms into a destination of Christmas buzz and excitement.
Kids Books: Tools for World Exploration
As a Mom of two I love changing out the books for my kids seasonally and throughout the year with holidays, family celebrations, and in the Mountains with the change of the seasons. Books are an easy way to introduce my children, who are still a little too young to travel, to the world.
As a passionate traveler, I find immense joy in introducing my two kids to the wonders of the world through books. Each story becomes a gateway to new places, cultures, and adventures, sparking their imaginations and broadening their horizons. From the bustling streets of far-off cities to the serene landscapes of distant lands, these books serve as a bridge, allowing them to explore the world from the comfort of our home. Sharing these literary journeys with them not only fuels their curiosity but also cultivates a sense of wonder and appreciation for the diverse world around us. It’s a beautiful way to inspire their sense of adventure and love for travel, one page at a time.
As a family, we love using our credit card bonus dollars to build our kids’ libraries with a special focus on fun and engaging travel books. Each book we choose is a new adventure, transporting them to far-off places and diverse cultures without ever leaving home. From illustrated tales of iconic destinations to captivating stories about different customs and landmarks, these books spark their curiosity and ignite their imaginations. By investing in their personal library, we’re not only creating a collection of wonderful stories but also nurturing their sense of wonder and excitement about the world. It’s a meaningful way to ignite a curiosity of other cultures and passion for travel, ensuring our kids have opportunities to explore and dream through the pages of their new favorite books.
New York City Christmas Kids Books: 13 Books to Add to Your Holiday Storytime Line-Up
Here are 13 New York City Christmas Kids book recommendations that you will want to add to your children’s holiday storytime line-up. These are books we love to use for storytime during the holidays and that are kid approved! And just for fun we have them in order of our family favorites, with our top favorite at number one:
1. Red & LuLu by Mat Tavares
Red and Lulu written and illustrated by Matt Tavares is our favorite New York City Christmas kids book and with good reason, this heartwarming children’s story beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas through a charming story and artistic illustrations of New York City. The story focuses on the tale of Red, a cardinal, and Lulu, his beloved wife, who live together in a cozy Norway Spruce out in the suburbs.
When the tree is selected to feature in New York City’s Rockefeller Center, Lulu is suddenly separated from Red. Red embarks on a desperate journey to New York City to find her. As he flies over the city, he witnesses the vibrant Christmas decorations, iconic landmarks, and festive lights that make New York so iconic and magical during the holiday season. The story culminates with a heartwarming reunion under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Red and Lulu is a wonderful book to read with children during the holidays and is a celebration of Christmas in New York City!
2. Christmas in New York (pop-up) by Chuck Fisher
Even though “Christmas in New York” was published in 1998 this beautiful pop-up book by Chuck Fisher is worth tracking down a copy. This captivating pop-up book incorporates intricate and dynamic pop-up scenes of the city’s most iconic Christmas attractions and celebrations in a way that’s both visually stunning and engaging.
The book features elaborate pop-up dioramas of iconic New York City landmarks like the dazzling Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, holiday markets, and festive window displays of famous department stores. Each pop-up is designed with meticulous attention to detail, creating a three-dimensional experience that captures the magic and grandeur of New York City at Christmas.
3. Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet
Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade” is an engaging and beautifully illustrated picture book that delves into the fascinating history of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and its iconic balloon floats. The book tells the true story of Tony Sarg, is an innovative puppeteer who played a pivotal role in creating the giant, balloon-filled spectacle that has become a beloved tradition in New York City. The book explores Sarg’s creative process, from his early puppetry work to his groundbreaking designs for the parade. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the balloons are crafted, the challenges faced, and the joy that the parade brings to millions of spectators each year. “Balloons Over Broadway” not only highlights the artistry and ingenuity behind the Macy’s Parade but also introduces young readers to the historical significance of this iconic event.
4. The Night Before Christmas in New York by Betty Lou Phillips and Roblyn Herndon
This is a book the entire family will enjoy! Santa’s pre-Christmas jitters start just before Thanksgiving, and Mrs. Claus arranges a trip to boost his holiday spirit to New York City. Their vacation for a little rest and relaxation and a little shopping is interrupted when the Macy’s parade official spots Santa on the street and convinces him to “substitute” as the Santa in the parade.
During the parade, Santa wonders how surprised the crowd would be if they knew the real Santa was the one they would see! The Thanksgiving Day Parade cheering boosts Santa’s confidence for another year, and later that night, Mr. C borrows the parade sleigh to take a flight over all the boroughs of the city.
5. A Very New York Christmas by Michael Storrings and Cynthia Nixon
A Very New York Christmas is a beautifully illustrated holiday book that captures the festive spirit of New York City during Christmas. The book immerses readers in the enchanting atmosphere of the city’s Christmas season through vibrant and detailed illustrations. The story celebrates the iconic sights and traditions of New York City during the holidays, from the dazzling window displays along Fifth Avenue to the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. It vividly portrays the city’s festive decorations, bustling streets, and the unique charm of its various neighborhoods, all while conveying a sense of warmth and holiday cheer.
6. Twas the Night Before Christmas in New York City by Jo Parry
“‘Twas the Night Before Christmas in New York City” is a charming holiday picture book that brings a classic Christmas tale to life in the vibrant setting of New York City. The book is a delightful twist on the beloved poem “The Night Before Christmas,” reimagined with the iconic landmarks and lively spirit of New York City.
In this version, the traditional verses are set against the backdrop of NYC’s festive atmosphere. The story follows Santa Claus as he makes his rounds in the city, navigating famous locales like Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Jo Parry’s book portrays a whimsical, urban twist on the story, with Santa maneuvering through skyscrapers and delivering presents in a city that never sleeps.
7. Miracle on 34th Street by Valentine Davies
Originally published in 1947 this true holiday classic, “Miracle on 34th Street” written by Valentine Davies follows along the original screenplay for “Miracle on 34th Street.” This is the classic story of Kris Kringle who works as the Macy’s department store Santa and how he is put on trial to reveal his true identity – which plays out in the climax of a courtroom drama. This story has been beloved for generations and hopefully will increase your families childlike excitement around Christmas and Christmas in New York!
8. The Twelve Days of Christmas in New York by Lisa Adams
The Twelve Days of Christmas in New York by Lisa Adams is a delightful children’s book that offers a festive twist on the classic holiday song. Set in the vibrant and iconic city of New York, the book takes readers on a magical journey through the city’s most famous landmarks and neighborhoods, with each day revealing a new and enchanting Christmas scene in New York City.
The story follows a child, experiencing the joy of the holiday season across twelve days, each day discovering unique New York City traditions and attractions. The book’s illustrations are rich and colorful and capture the energy and diversity of New York during Christmas time.
9. Christmastime in New York City by Roxie Munro
“Christmastime in New York City” is a delightful picture book that invites readers on a festive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and celebrations. Roxie Munro’s illustrations bring to life the bustling streets and twinkling lights of New York City in December. The book showcases the city’s famous holiday attractions, such as the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the elaborate window displays at Macy’s, and the charming holiday markets. The lively scenes reflect the joy and excitement that envelops the city during this special time of year.
10. The Christmas Tugboat: How the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Came to New York City
This Christmas kids book is a look into the behind the scenes story of how the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City gets delivered via tugboat. The author, George Matteson was the tugboat captain that with the help of his wife and daughter, traveled and delivered the giant tree by tugboat. This story of their real-life journey up the Hudson River and helped deliver the grand Norway Spruce into New York Harbor, just in time for Christmas gives great insight to what it’s like to be on tugboat and part of an exciting Christmas time journey through the eyes of a child to deliver the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
11. The Christmas Owl by Ellen Kalish and Gideon Sterer
The Christmas Owl” is a sweet holiday story about a young owl who finds himself on a challenging journey during the Christmas season. With the help of friends along the way the little owl discovers the true meaning of Christmas. “The Christmas Owl” emphasizes themes of kindness, community, and the power of friendship, making it a heartwarming read for your Christmas storytime collection.
12. Art Hiding in New York An Illustrated Guide to the City's Secret Masterpieces by Lori Zimmer
Ideal for visitors and families planning to go to New York City at Christmas, “Art Hiding in New York City”invites kids and families to embark on a creative scavenger hunt through the city during the festive holiday season. This guide is full of beautiful illustrations that will help you explore the hidden gems of art in New York City.
13. New York City Landmarks by Jake Rajs
A picture book about New York City at Christmas is a vivid and engaging tool for children to learn about what it’s like to visit the city during the holidays. This picture book provides colorful illustrations that capture the essence of New York City during the holiday season. Children can see iconic landmarks like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Central Park covered in snow, and festive window displays, helping them visualize the city’s unique holiday atmosphere.
Merry Christmas!
Whether you are planning a trip or have recently been to New York City for Christmas, hope your Christmas is just a little bit brighter by enjoying these New York City Christmas kids books as part of your holiday storytime! We would love to hear which story is your family’s favorite in the comments below.
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