This holiday season, the Empire State Building is filled with festive magic guests don’t want to miss. From an exclusive ticket bundle with the Radio City Rockettes, fan-favorite movie classics, visits from Santa Claus, and many more, the architectural marvel is sure to bring joy to the “city that never sleeps!”
The Empire State Building Celebrates 100 Years of the Radio City Rockettes
This holiday season, the Radio City Rockettes and Empire State Building partnered together to create festive experiences which honor both icons.
The ESB & Radio City Rockettes Ticket Bundle
Through Jan. 5, guests can purchase the “Christmas Spectacular” and Empire State Building Ticket Bundle, which includes same-day access to the Empire State Building Observatory and tickets in the orchestra level to the “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes®.”
This limited-time experience offers access to the Empire State Building’s immersive second-floor museum and the 86th Floor Observation Deck, where guests can enjoy unforgettable views and photo opportunities of New York City, all within the same day of their “Christmas Spectacular” performance. Don’t miss the chance to experience two of NYC’s most iconic holiday traditions in one magical day! Click here to buy tickets.
Lighting Ceremony
To kick off the holiday season, the Radio City Rockettes lit the Empire State Building on Nov. 6 to celebrate their 100th anniversary and unveiled the building’s holiday decorations.
At the lighting ceremony the Rockettes flipped the world-famous light switch to light the building in festive red and white with a Christmas tree in the mast. The celebrations continued as they made their way through the second-floor museum experience and arrived at the 80th Floor to unveil the full floor Rockettes exhibit, that features historical costumes, photos, and Rocketts history. This exhibit celebrates the group’s historic 100-year milestone in a museum-like display for all guests to enjoy as they make their way up to one of the highest observation decks in NYC. The Rockettes then visited the 86th Floor Observation Deck, to pose in front of the festive holiday photo opportunity that all Observatory guests can enjoy this season. To conclude their visit, the Rockettes made their way back down to unveil the Fifth Avenue holiday window displays that contain scenes and memorabilia from the iconic troupe’s history.
Santa Claus Lands at the “World’s Most Famous Building”
Ho Ho Ho! Santa will make special stops at the Empire State Building throughout December! On select dates and times, guests can meet the man in red and capture timeless photos with their loved ones at the most iconic NYC destination.
Create a new holiday tradition at one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks. This beloved Santa experience at ESB brings families together for festive fun and unforgettable moments high above NYC. Guests begin their visit on the second floor, surrounded by holiday magic and immersive museum exhibits, before they make their way to the 80th Floor to meet Santa and capture photos that will last a lifetime.
This is one of New York City’s most popular holiday activities, and tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to reserve in advance!
View the full Santa schedule and purchase tickets here.
Escape the Winter Chills at ESB’s Movie Nights
Holiday spirit decks the halls of the Empire State Building once again with the return of the annual Holiday Movie Nights! This year, guests can cozy up with loved ones to watch “Elf” and "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" for the ultimate indoor winter experience.
Included in the movie screenings are complimentary drinks, snacks, and festive treats to sweeten the experience. After the movie, the magic continues as guests ascend to the 86th and 102nd Floor Observatories for breathtaking, 360-degree views of New York City.
“Elf” Movie Screening Schedule
- December 18th at 5:45pm
- December 20th at 7:15pm
Click here to buy tickets to ESB’s “Elf” Movie Nights
"Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" Movie Screening Schedule
- December 5th at 5:45pm
- December 13th at 5:45pm
Click here to buy tickets to ESB’s “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” Movie Nights
These tickets sell out quickly, so make sure to secure a reservation before it is too late!
Experience the Joy of the Season
The “World’s Most Famous Building” has turned into a winter wonderland! From the moment guests arrive, they’ll be surrounded by the sights, music, and spirit of the holiday, all set against the expansive backdrop of New York City.
Grab a Bite at the Top of New York City
This season, guests can enjoy local-favorite snacks from Ess-A-Bagel and Doughnuttery at the top of the ESB to complement the extraordinary view of the city.
Bagels Worth the Climb
Until Nov. 21, Ess-a-Bagel will bring holiday magic to new heights! Celebrate the season with themed, freshly hand-rolled bagels with their exclusive peppermint cream cheese flavor.
Doughnuttery
From Nov. 24 to Feb.1, Doughnuttery will bring their fan-favorite mini doughnuts to the 86th Floor Observatory! Enjoy limited-time flavors created just for the season alongside unparalleled views of the “Big Apple.” Guests can treat themselves to freshly made signature pastries in delicious winter flavors sprinkled with magic. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy ESB with warm holiday flavors.
Visit The Heart of NYC
It’s New York’s can’t-miss experience. Book your ticket to the top today.
