Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Hanukkah
Top Things to Do in New York City for Hanukkah
1. Grand Army Plaza Menorah (Brooklyn)
Watch the towering 32-foot menorah blaze to life at Brooklyn’s Grand Army Plaza with live music, hot latkes, and a jubilant community vibe at the foot of Prospect Park.
✓ Why Go:
It’s one of NYC’s signature Hanukkah ceremonies—festive, family-friendly, and photogenic—anchored by a colossal menorah and a palpable sense of celebration.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Arrive 20–30 minutes before sunset on any of the eight nights; the first and eighth nights are especially spirited.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand along the library side of the plaza for the clearest sightlines and quick post-lighting access to nearby eateries on Flatbush Avenue.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the inclusive atmosphere and big-night energy; many call it a quintessential New York Hanukkah moment.
2. Grand Army Plaza Menorah (Manhattan)
Across from The Plaza Hotel, the Fifth Avenue menorah sets Midtown aglow, framed by Central Park and holiday windows for a classic New York backdrop.
✓ Why Go:
Pair a timeless candle lighting with the city’s most iconic winter scenery—Fifth Avenue lights, Central Park, and the Plaza’s gilded facade.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset each night of Hanukkah; arrive a bit early to claim a curbside spot and beat Midtown crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Face south down Fifth Avenue for glittering photos that capture both the menorah and the avenue’s holiday lights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the postcard-perfect setting and easy access to nearby landmarks and cafes.
3. The Jewish Museum
Explore centuries of Jewish art and ritual objects, including exquisite Hanukkah lamps, in a landmark mansion on Museum Mile.
✓ Why Go:
The galleries add depth and context to the holiday, turning the menorah from symbol into story through craftsmanship and history.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings during Hanukkah for quieter galleries; check holiday hours before you go.
✓ Insider Tip:
Don’t miss the shop’s curated dreidels, menorahs, and gifts—ideal for last-minute presents.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate the thoughtful exhibits and say the lamp displays make the season feel especially meaningful.
4. Museum at Eldridge Street
Step inside a restored 1887 synagogue with soaring arches and a dazzling rose window, a Lower East Side touchstone for Jewish heritage.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a vivid look at immigrant-era Jewish life, often complemented by seasonal programming that dovetails with Hanukkah.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to early afternoon for best interior light and fewer crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair your visit with a short walk to classic neighborhood spots for rugelach or knishes to round out the holiday mood.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Reviewers call it moving and atmospheric; many highlight the architecture as a surprise standout.
5. Bryant Park Winter Village Menorah
Join a lively menorah lighting beside the rink and market stalls, with music, cocoa, and skyline views in Midtown’s favorite winter hangout.
✓ Why Go:
It blends Hanukkah traditions with NYC’s open-air holiday scene—perfect if you want lights, skating, and latkes in one stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
The first night for big energy; arrive 30 minutes early to get close to the fountain area.
✓ Insider Tip:
Post-lighting, warm up with snacks at nearby kiosks or stroll to the New York Public Library’s holiday displays.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the festive, all-ages setting and easy Midtown access by subway.
6. Breads Bakery
Celebrate the season with pillowy sufganiyot—filled doughnuts—and buttery pastries from one of the city’s most beloved bakeries.
✓ Why Go:
Hanukkah is the cue to indulge in fried treats, and Breads’ sufganiyot and babka are local obsessions for good reason.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings during Hanukkah week for the best selection before they sell out.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pre-order holiday boxes if you’re visiting later in the day; flavors rotate, so ask what’s fresh.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers gush over the freshness and seasonal fillings; many make it an annual tradition.
7. Zabar's
Pick up crisp, golden latkes and classic Jewish provisions at this Upper West Side institution that’s fed New Yorkers for generations.
✓ Why Go:
Latkes are a Hanukkah staple, and Zabar’s nails the crunchy-outside, tender-inside balance—ideal for a holiday picnic or hotel feast.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weeknights for shorter lines; aim earlier on Fridays.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the express line for prepared foods and grab applesauce or sour cream to-go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans love the nostalgia and say the latkes taste like home.
8. Jewish Children's Museum
Hands-on exhibits, game zones, and holiday activities make Hanukkah come alive for kids in this interactive Crown Heights museum.
✓ Why Go:
It’s fun, educational, and tailor-made for families looking to deepen kids’ connection to the holiday.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midweek afternoons during Hanukkah for lighter crowds; check for special holiday workshops.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the rooftop for a great menorah photo op if weather permits.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the friendly staff and engaging exhibits that keep kids exploring for hours.
9. National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene
Experience Yiddish music and seasonal performances at the storied company housed in the Museum of Jewish Heritage.
✓ Why Go:
Live culture amplifies the holiday spirit—think klezmer-inflected concerts and programs that celebrate Jewish resilience and joy.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings during Hanukkah; arrive early to explore the harborfront views nearby.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the museum’s calendar the same day—exhibitions and the on-site cafe make an easy pre-show add-on.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Audiences call shows heartfelt and high-caliber, with a strong sense of community.
10. Economy Candy
Stock up on chocolate gelt, dreidels, and nostalgic sweets at this Lower East Side legend that delights kids and grown-ups alike.
✓ Why Go:
Hanukkah gifting is sweeter with gold-foil gelt and candy-filled surprises from a century-old neighborhood favorite.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons to avoid weekend lines; inventory is fullest early in the holiday week.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for pareve or nut-free options if you’re bringing treats to a gathering with dietary needs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers love the throwback vibe and wide selection; many say it’s impossible to leave empty-handed.
