The holidays are approaching and winter break is near. Amidst the joyous excitement felt by those traveling to second homes, tropical islands, or another country, there is a lack of enthusiasm surrounding those with no vacation plans… But fear not! Here we provide you with the perfect “staycation guide” to ensure your holidays are just as lively at home:

See a Show

• George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker – Performed by NYCB. Shows run from Dec. 13th to Dec. 30th.
• Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes – Radio City’s legendary dance company. Tickets available until Jan. 2nd
• Frozen: The Broadway Musical – Disney’s hit film and a family favorite! Tickets offered the entire winter break!

Stay Local

• • Westchester Winter Wonderland – Held at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, this carnival includes ice skating, a carnival, refreshments, and more. Runs on select dates through Dec. 31st.
  • North Kensico Christmas Lights Show – Located in White Plains, this is one of the most popular residential Christmas light shows in Westchester.
  • Blue Tulip Chocolate – Located in Rye, this chocolate shop is known for its decadent, rich hot chocolate.
  • Ice Skating – The following are all located in Westchester County:
    • Indoor – Westchester Skating Academy, Hommocks Park Ice Rink, Edward J. Murray Memorial Skating Center, Ebersole Ice Rink, Playland Ice, The Harvey School: Evarts Rink, Ice Hutch

• Outdoor – Wampus Pond Park, Blue Mountain Reservation, Tibbetts Brook Park, Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park

Activities in the City

• New York Christmas and Holiday Lights Tour – See Midtown Manhattan light up like no other. An array of mechanical window displays, synchronized light and sound shows, and toy soldiers await you. Tours run until Jan. 1st, reservations required.
• Rockefeller Center – Nothing says holidays in NYC quite like this iconic complex. Go ice skating with a friend, window shop, dine at one of the many restaurants, or simply walk around to admire the infamous Christmas tree!
• NYBG Holiday Train Show – Watch this mesmerizing display of model trains zip through more than 175 New York landmarks re-created with natural materials. Perfect for lovers of both nature and NYC! Tickets available through Jan. 21st.
• Dyker Heights, Brooklyn – This quiet suburban neighborhood is known for the extravagant holiday decorations covering each house. Where else will you find toy soldiers standing 25 feet tall, a two-story Santa, and homes displaying 30,000 lights? Viewings available until Jan. 4th.
• Prospect Park’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Brooklyn – This free event held at Prospect Park’s iconic Grand Army Plaza includes live entertainment and a spectacular firework display at midnight on Dec. 31st.

Relax at Home

• Bake and decorate cookies (preferably with holiday music blasting in the background!)
• Buy some popcorn and have a movie night
• Curl up on the couch with your favorite blanket and a good book
• Get imaginative and make your own ornaments with family members
• Treat yourself with a spa day
• Have your own little dance party in the bathroom as you belt out your favorite songs into your hairbrush (absolutely no judgment here)
• Fill up on hot chocolate!
• When in doubt, sleep! Allow yourself to recover from school stress 🙂