What To Do At Brookfield Place For The Holidays

FINANCIAL DISTRICT, NY — It's beginning to look a lot like the holidays in Lower Manhattan.

From the massive tree lighting in Rockefeller Center to Fifth Avenue's elaborate window displays, New York looks like a giant movie set during the holidays. And Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan is no different with a slew of free festivities and spectacles including ice dancing with Olympians, family arts and crafts with Santa, seasonal performances by the New York Theatre Ballet, and more.

There is no shortage of winter happenings in Brookfield Place this year. So skip Herald Square and try something new — you never know what might become your next tradition.

The Rink

What: Take in sprawling views while gliding on a more than 7,000 square-foot outdoor rink. This year's programming is led by former U.S. Olympic skaters and features something for all skill levels, including public skating, private lessons, intro to hockey for kids, and more. Hours vary and are weather permitting.

When: Nov. 21 through March

Saturday Morning Show

What: Tykes can enjoy magic shows, story time, singalongs and more at the Hudson Eats food court on Saturday mornings.

When: Nov. 10, 17 and Dec. 1, 8, 15. Times vary look up the full schedule here.

Santa at Brookfield Place

What: Santa's month-long visit includes a children's craft area and a photo op with St. Nicolas — for those willing to pay. Photo packages also include a personalized phone call from Santa. Visitors can make reservations for the photo op. Walk-ins are also welcome.

When: Nov. 23-Dec. 24, closed on Mondays except for Dec. 24

Santa Visit with Autism Speaks

What: This sensory-friendly event allows families with special needs children to visit Santa in a comforting environment prior to public hours.

When: Dec. 9, 8:30-10 a.m.

Santa Paws

What: Locals can bring their four-legged family members to Brookfield Place for special dog-friendly Santa sessions. Small dogs under 25 pounds only. Pooches must be carried or remain in a carrier at all times, with the exception of service animals.

When: Nov. 25, Dec. 2 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Light Up Luminaries

What: This holiday party signals the start of the season with an evening of winter festivities and a dazzling light installation. Visitors can enjoy ice skating on the waterfront, sweet seasonal treats and performances by the Original Dickens Carolers and Joe McGinty and The Loser's Lounge.

When: Nov. 27, 5:30-8 p.m.

New York Theatre Ballet: Keith Michael’s The Nutcracker

What: Performed by the New York Theatre Ballet, Keith Michael’s choreography is set to Tchaikovsky’s classic score in this holiday classic. The dance company will perform four shows of The Nutcracker in the Winter Garden. Seating is first come first served and early arrival is strongly suggested.

When: Nov. 30, 7-8 p.m.; Dec. 1 1-2 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.; Dec. 2, 1-2 p.m.

Luminaries

What: This holiday light installation immerses visitors in a suspended canopy of glowing lanterns that change color. The display, which was created by the LAB at Rockwell Group, was inspired by the "the season’s traditions of sharing, giving, and community," according to Brookfield Place. Visitors can watch light shows every half hour and "send wishes" to the canopy above from the glowing "wishing stations." Brookfield will donate $1, up to $25,000, for every wish sent during the holiday season to Little Essentials, a New York City-based non-profit that provides assistance to children living in poverty.

When: Light shows run from 8 a.m.-10 p.m., wishing stations are open from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. For the full schedule visit here.

Stars United at The Rink at Brookfield Place

What: Stars United returns for its fourth year at The Rink. This show fuses Olympic ice dancing with stars in electronic dance music and vogue dancers.

When: Dec. 2, 6-7 p.m.

Photos courtesy of Brookfield Place