The dog days of summer might be lingering, but those crisp autumn breezes are a sure sign that winter—and its snowy magic—are on their way. Before you know it, New York City will transform into a dazzling holiday wonderland, making now the perfect time to start planning your group’s festive getaway. Amidst the twinkling lights and iconic window displays, experiencing a Broadway show isn’t just an optional outing—it’s an essential part of your itinerary.
During the bustling holiday season, the demand for tickets skyrockets, making early planning not just savvy, but necessary. Secure your spot at one of the city’s world-renowned productions ahead of time to avoid the hassle of long lines and sold-out shows. Prioritizing this part of your trip provides peace of mind and more time to explore the city’s other seasonal delights, ensuring a seamless, stress-free holiday experience that captures all the festive spirit NYC has to offer. Let’s make this holiday season a memorable one by diving into the planning process today!
From Show Selection to Booking – We’ve Got You – Browse must-see shows on Leisure Group Travel and finalize your tickets at Broadway Inbound.
Magic That Never Ages
After a day of ice skating and sipping hot chocolate in Bryant Park or a visit to Macy’s Santaland with the kids, consider extending the holiday magic with a little Disney magic. The Lion King and Aladdin on Broadway are a perfect itinerary addition for student tours or family groups with children. These shows revolutionized family-friendly theatre by offering visually stunning and award-winning productions that appeal to all ages. “The Lion King” whisks audiences to the vibrant African savanna with Elton John’s unforgettable music and dazzling puppetry that vividly brings the animal kingdom to life. This captivating spectacle weaves humor, adventure, and deep themes of family and destiny, creating a magical experience that everyone will cherish.
Meanwhile, Aladdin delights with its radiant sets and costumes, whisking audiences away on a whimsical magic carpet ride. Signature songs like “Arabian Nights” and “A Whole New World” add musical flair to the adventurous story of wishes, dreams, and self-discovery. With showstopping numbers and enchanting storytelling, Aladdin ensures a magical highlight during any NYC holiday trip. Given their popularity, securing tickets early is a wise move during the bustling holiday season; these shows are crowd-pleasers that shouldn’t be missed!
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Start your day in classic New York style by savoring a buttery croissant outside Tiffany’s on Fifth Avenue, channeling your inner Audrey Hepburn. After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely stroll down the iconic avenue, taking in the festive window displays and holiday atmosphere, until you reach the majestic tree in Rockefeller Center—a quintessential NYC holiday experience. As the day winds down, make your way to Circle in the Square, where the theatre has been transformed into an intimate nightclub setting for an unforgettable evening with the music and charm of Bobby Darin in the new musical Just In Time.
Featuring ‘60s radio hits like “Beyond the Sea,” “Mack the Knife,” “Splish Splash,” and “Dream Lover,” the musical promises an evening that’s not just a show, but a celebration that leaves you humming along to its timeless tunes. Adding a little inter-generational appeal is Tony Award® winner Jonathan Groff, who steps into the role of the legendary crooner whose astonishing journey took him from teen idol to global sensation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Darin’s music for the first time, this “utterly electrifying” experience is one that captures both the spirit and charm of a bygone era.
Curtain Up on the Classics
A day spent at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a day well-spent, indeed. Enjoy gift shopping for unique holiday treasures crafted by local artisans while savoring seasonal delights like mulled wine and warm roasted chestnuts, bringing an extra layer of warmth and comfort to your winter shopping experience.
From there, it’s just a one subway stop north (or a brisk walk) to Lincoln Center, where classic arts fans can enjoy the city’s premiere performances in opera and ballet. Both the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Ballet call Lincoln Center home, each with holiday offerings that have become perennial favorites.
Mozart’s whimsical masterpiece The Magic Flute is brought to life in a holiday presentation directed by Tony Award® winner Julie Taymor (artistic visionary behind The Lion King). Edited down to just over 90 minutes and sung in English, this version is perfect for families, offering a delightful blend of earthy comedy and noble mysticism that appeals to audiences from all walks of life. Experience the beauty of separate musical numbers connected by engaging dialogue as this fairy tale unfolds, making it an ideal introduction for both opera aficionados and newcomers.
Meanwhile, at the New York City Ballet, The Nutcracker remains a holiday staple, enchanting audiences with a magical journey to the Land of Sweets. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score accompanying George Balanchine’s iconic choreography, this classic production transforms the stage into a winter wonderland. From the moment the tree magically grows and the toy soldiers come to life, to the breathtaking dances of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her court, The Nutcracker captures the imagination and festive spirit for audiences of all ages, making it an enduring holiday tradition.
New York City during the holidays is special—a true spectacle of twinkling lights, showstopping performances, and the big, bold holiday spirit that only New York can deliver. Don’t miss out on the magic that awaits—plan your visit early and secure your tickets today. Broadway Inbound is here to assist, offering special group pricing for as few as eight people. Whether you’re with a school tour, a family group, or a gathering of friends, Broadway Inbound can help make your holiday season in NYC an incredible one.
From Show Selection to Booking – We’ve Got You – Browse must-see shows on Leisure Group Travel and finalize your tickets at Broadway Inbound.