The holidays in NYC aren’t just about shopping and ice skating—they’re a time to sip, savor, and soak up the city’s incredible festive vibe, there’s something for every kind of holiday reveler. Grab your friends, don your holiday best, and dive into the most spirited events the Big Apple has to offer.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Pier 15 NYC

Dates: December 5 - 31, 2024
Location: Watermark

Pier 15’s iconic Santa’s Winter Wonderland is back and bigger than ever. Heated igloos, dazzling waterfront views, and whimsical holiday decorations set the stage for seasonal drinks, a mini carousel surrounded by Christmas trees, and plenty of Instagrammable photo moments. And yes, Santa Claus himself is in attendance daily, ready to spread cheer and pose for pictures!

Source: Secret NYC

The Drunk Texts: A Drunk Christmas Carol

Dates: December 20 - 21, 2024
Location: The Rat NYC

What happens when Charles Dickens meets drinking games and improv? The answer is Random Access Theatre’s boozy hit, The Drunk Texts: A Drunk Christmas Carol. Watch thespians take shots, follow audience cues, and hilariously muddle through a reimagined classic. With audience interaction and holiday hijinks, this is one tipsy twist you don’t want to miss.

Source: Random Access Theatre 

Great Jones Whiskey Wonderland

Dates: November 14, 2024 - January 11, 2025
Location: Great Jones Distillery

Escape to a whiskey lover’s paradise at Great Jones Distillery’s holiday-themed speakeasy. Decked out like a winter chalet, this NoHo gem offers cozy decor, a roaring fireplace, and a stellar cocktail menu featuring creations like the Sleighbell Sour and Krampusnacht Nip. Pair your drinks with bites like White Chocolate Fondue or Toastie Buttered Pretzels for the ultimate winter indulgence.

Source: The Knocturnal

Mixology 101: Holiday Cocktails

Dates: December 19, 2024 - January 9, 2025
Location: Even Hotel New York - Midtown East

Looking to impress your guests with top-notch cocktails? This hands-on mixology class is just the ticket. Learn to craft festive favorites like Peppermint Stick Martini and Cranberry Ginger Gin Fizz under the guidance of a master mixologist. Bonus: You’ll also pick up pro tips on stocking a stellar home bar.

Source: EventBrite 

Christmas Yacht Party Cruise NYC

Date: December 21, 2024
Location: Skyport Marina

What’s more magical than a yacht party under the NYC skyline? This heated two-floor yacht offers DJs spinning your favorite tunes, food and drinks available for purchase, and views of iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty. It’s the perfect way to toast the season on the water.

Source: City Experiences 

A Christmas Cocktail Carol

Dates: December 12 - 14, 2024
Location: BLK Hudson

Step into a darkly Victorian reimagining of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with this immersive cocktail experience. Enjoy four holiday-themed cocktails that pair perfectly with key scenes from the timeless tale. A twist on tradition, this event is a must for literary enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike.

Source: Viator

SANTACON CHRISTMAS PARTY

Date: December 13, 2024
Location: Times Square

Times Square transforms into a sea of red and white at the annual Santacon Christmas Party. Put on your best Santa suit and join the city’s most festive bar crawl. Expect drink specials, lively crowds, and enough holiday spirit to carry you through the season.

Source: NPR

Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Dates: November 22, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Location: Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Stroll through a dazzling illuminated trail featuring over a million lights, the iconic Winter Cathedral, and a Fire Garden. Seasonal concessions like mulled wine, hot cider, and cocoa complete the experience. Lightscape is the perfect spot to sip and savor the holiday magic.

Source: TimeOut

A Murray Little Christmas

Dates: December 12 - 21, 2024
Location: Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater

Join Murray Hill, NYC’s legendary entertainer, for a rollicking year-end show filled with burlesque, music, and comedy. With special guests and surprise performances, A Murray Little Christmas promises to deliver unforgettable holiday cheer with a vintage twist.

Source: NYC Tourism

Common Ground Bad Santa

Date: December 14, 2024
Location: 63 Gansevoort St

Who says the naughty list isn’t fun? Common Ground’s Bad Santa party invites you to a winter wonderland where mischief reigns supreme. Sip exclusive holiday cocktails and dance the night away with the city’s merriest troublemakers.

Source: JoonBug

The holidays are a time to celebrate—and there’s no better place to do it than New York City. With so many unique and spirited events, you can raise a glass to the season in style. So gather your crew, map out your holiday fun, and toast to a season filled with good cheer and even better drinks!