Don't do Christmas in New York until you've read this

Unleashing your inner Buddy (IYKYK) is as easy as saying yes please to the following activities.New York City - wonderful any time of year - transforms into a conga line of Hallmark Christmas movie moments come December.How best to immerse yourself in the city's over-the-top festive atmosphere? You can't go wrong with any of the following things.READ MORE: The truth about a holiday in the Northern TerritoryHit the ice at Rockefeller CenterNew Yorkers will tell you it's overcrowded (particularly on weekends) but you can't go to NYC at Christmas without gliding across the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink beneath the famous tree.Although tickets start from $US21 ($32), you can expect to pay around $US80 ($123) or more during peak holiday season. Skate, plus the obligatory photo is extra and you'll need to arrive at least 15 minutes before the session you booked in advance (well in advance).The tree? Of course you'll want to see this mesmerising beauty. READ MORE: How to get a free walking tour from a local in New York CityCheck out the window displays on 5th AvenueGot money to burn? Saving your pennies? It makes no difference if you're preparing to flash the cash or not once you start walking down 5th Avenue where store windows are decked out with all kinds of extravagant displays.However department store Saks Fifth Avenue has cancelled it's light show this year. But there are plenty of other festive sights to see on the famous street.READ MORE: Catriona Rowntree loves this cruise activity - even though she has 'no idea' what she's doingSee the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights in BrooklynTo paraphrase the great Mic Dundee, 'That's not a Christmas light display, THIS is a Christmas light display' - words you'll be parroting as you walk around Dyker Heights, a Brooklyn neighbourhood known for having the most elaborate light displays you'll ever see.You can walk around yourself, or you can book an organised tour of the suburb.READ MORE: Everything you need to know about visiting New York CityVisit the Christmas markets Christmas markets aren't strictly the domain of east Europeans, squares brimming with decorations, handicrafts and cinnamon-scented treats are just as popular in New York.As with everything else in the city, there's an option to book a Christmas Markets Walking Tour, or you can visit the likes of Union Square Holiday Market, Christmas Market in Bryant Park and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market at your own pace. READ MORE: Australia's most popular road trip has been revealed in new surveyTake a holiday lights and movies sites tourWhether your favourite Christmas movie is Miracle on 34th Street, Elf or Serendipity, a Holiday Lights and Movie Sites tour by On Location Tours.The three-hour tours (undertaken mostly by bus) takes in all the top scenes from much-loved holiday flicks, from the holiday windows and Rockefeller Center Tree to Central Parking. Some walking is involved. READ MORE: The best free things to do in New York CityEnjoy a feast at Oscar WildeThere's no shortage of eateries putting on amazing holiday spreads, but Oscar Wilde is easily one of the most celebrated. The food is what you'd expect at this Victorian-themed bar and while it hits the right notes for those expecting traditional fare, you're here for the over-the-top Christmas decorations. Take a seat: there's no doubting where you are and what the occasion is. Catch The Nutcracker balletOkay, tickets to a performance of ballet The Nutcracker is never going to be a budget-friendly affair, but you can't argue that this production isn't a timeless classic that's going to make your New York experience that much more authentic.Matinee and evening performances are available, but you'll need to act quickly to nab a ticket. A sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for January 5, 2025. READ MORE: What to eat, see and do in Las Vegas for first time visitorsSee the legendary RockettesNot quite as old as Jesus, but not far off; the Rockettes have been performing at Radio City Music Hall since 1930 and their Radio City Christmas Spectacular is easily one of the most iconic shows to hit the city.Tickets are priced around $US90 - $100 ($140 to $155) for an early November show, but increase the closer you get to Christmas Day. Ride the holiday trainGot an anorak in the family? Even if you don't, it's hard to go past the joy the Holiday Train Show, a magical landscape of miniature trains weaving their way around a display of New York landmarks gives the young and old.On display at the New York Botanical Garden, the displays are just as magnificent at night as they are during the day. READ MORE: Seven must-do things to add to your New York City itineraryLock in a Christmas cruise How can you say no to the experience of tucking in a traditional Christmas meal with all the trimmings as you cruise past New York's iconic landmarks?That's right, you don't. Although there are several Christmas Day cruises around, the Bateaux with a full three-course meal is a perfect option for Christmas Eve. For more information on festive New York activities, visit NYC Tourism