There is no place in the world like Christmas in New York City. The Big Apple really knows how to delight one and all with a magical wonderland that Christmas brings through lights, decorations, shows and extravagant sites throughout the city that never sleeps. This beautiful time of year will delight the young and old. Whether you're into shopping, culture or just love the sights and sounds of Christmas, you will fall in love with Christmas in New York City.

One of the ways to bring you back to your childhood memories of Christmas is to relive skating outdoors. One of the most popular ice rinks gives you the sights of Times Square. As you float across the ice you can see all the different decorations and lights around including the largest Christmas Tree in the city! If you don't want to wait in the long line ups and prefer a smaller crowd there are other places to go, including Central Park and Prospect Park. At Central Park, you can also enjoy groups singing carols and warm up after your skate with a cup of hot chocolate and a snack.

New York City is full of culture, shows and Christmas time doesn't change that; even more shows and events are put on for this special time of year. One of the biggest shows is the 'Christmas Spectacular' by Radio City. Full of dancing, singing and magic; young and old alike will love this experience. Drop into one of the many New York City churches to hear the choirs' beautiful voices bringing many carols and hymns to life.

For an annual cultural treat, get tickets to the ballet and watch the timeless Christmas story of the 'Nutcracker'. For a less traditional annual site head down to New York's Botanical Gardens where every year the 'Holiday Train Show' stops by. Christmas in New York wouldn't be the same without the department stores pulling out all the stops to decorate their store windows; take a stroll down 5th Avenue to see how each store shows their holiday spirit.

As you go from place to place, you will notice that Christmas in New York City is filled with magical lights. Many parks have different Christmas tree lightings including Central Park and the Rockefeller Centre in Times Square, both of which have ice skating, as well. Or check out Grand Central Terminal's 'Kaleidoscope Light Show' to be dazzled in the mystic lights. Wherever you go in New York the lights will be there to remind you of the magic that is Christmas.

Christmas in New York City is perfect for young and old, couples or families. There is something for everyone to enjoy. The Big Apple will delight and amuse you whether it's your first visit or if you've visited every year, each visit will awaken your senses to the sights and sounds of Christmas. Don't forget to check out rockefellercenter.com to find out when the tree lighting and other important dates are coming up.