December shows in New York

Navigation guide

1. Top Broadway shows in December
2. Top musicals
3. Top plays
4. December premieres
5. Shows closing in December
6. Christmas and family-friendly picks
7. Events in New York
8. Timeless shows in New York
9. Visitor tips
10. FAQs

December transforms Broadway into a festive stage. Tourists flock for holiday magic and limited-run musicals, while chilly weather makes warm theatres inviting. Expect full houses, seasonal spirit, and some bargains on weekday matinees. This guide to Broadway shows in December 2026 ensures you get the best seats.

December premieres in New York

The city's winter lineup opens with smart, star-filled plays debuting this month. These Broadway December premieres are not to miss:

• Marjorie Prime (Helen Hayes Theatre): A Broadway premiere from Pulitzer-finalist Jordan Harrison on Dec 8. In this subtle sci-fi drama, an AI companion helps an elderly woman piece together fading memories.
• All In: Comedy About Love (Hudson Theatre): From The New Yorker’s Simon Rich, this vignette-style comedy explores quirks of modern relationships. Featuring rotating casts including John Mulaney, Fred Armisen, and Renée Elise Goldsberry. Previews start Dec 11.

New York shows closing in December

If you’re looking for final‑chance shows before they leave Broadway, these productions are taking their final bows this month.

• Art (Music Box Theatre): This Tony Award–winning revival stars James Corden, Bobby Cannavale, and Neil Patrick Harris. Closing on Dec  21.
• Katsura Sunshine's Rakugo (New World Stages): A rare Broadway showcase of traditional Japanese comic storytelling, intimate, hilarious, and culturally rich, wrapping its current run on December 14.

Christmas and family-friendly picks

These shows capture New York’s most cinematic holiday energy — magical, heartwarming, and perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone chasing pure seasonal joy.

• Rockettes Christmas Spectacular (Radio City Music Hall): A beloved New York tradition since 1933, this precision dance extravaganza at Radio City blends Nutcracker magic, a living Nativity, and high–kicks that sparkle with holiday cheer.
• The Lion King (Minskoff Theatre): Warm imagery, stirring music, and universal themes make this musical a perfect family treat. Its vibrant storytelling feels especially resonant during the season of togetherness.
• Aladdin (New Amsterdam Theatre): This colorful Disney spectacle bursts with magic carpets, Genie jokes, and memorable songs—an upbeat, multi-generational show that keeps festive spirits high.
• The Magic Flute (Metropolitan Opera House): A whimsical Mozart opera reimagined with modern theatrical staging — fantastical creatures, enchanted quests, and a fairytale spirit that feels timeless and visually transportive.

Pro tips for visiting New York in December

• Dress for winter chill: Temperatures hover between 31–49 °F; pack gloves, scarf, warm coat, waterproof boots.
• Subway caution: Underground platforms get slippery. Allow extra time for slick stairs and snowiness.
• Book matinees mid‑week: Wednesday and Thursday 2pm shows avoid crowds and let you explore Bryant Park afterward.
• Timed indoor attractions: Daylight fades around 4:30 pm—schedule museum visits pre‑3pm to enjoy daylight.
• Tickets for holiday hits early: Rockettes and popular musicals need booking by early December.
• Underground walkways: Use the Times Square–Rockefeller concourse to dodge wind chill.
• Hydrate and snack: Winter dryness indoors can distract—stay hydrated and eat small snacks between shows.
• Portable charger essential: Digital tickets, rideshares, weather updates—don’t get stranded phone dead.
• Arrive 30 minutes early: Holiday traffic and winter transit delays are common—don’t risk being late.
• Check weather 48hrs out: Light snow common; storms can disrupt taxis, trains and flights.