By admin 
There’s nothing quite like Christmas in New York City. The city’s glittering lights, whimsical decorations, and enchanting snow-covered streets have inspired countless holiday films. Watching these movies can transport you to the Big Apple, where the season’s charm feels larger than life. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 15 iconic Christmas movies filmed in New York City, perfect for your holiday binge-watching.
1. Elf (2003)
Who can forget Buddy the Elf wandering around New York City in his green-and-yellow elf outfit? This modern Christmas classic follows Buddy (Will Ferrell) as he leaves the North Pole searching for his biological father. Along the way, he discovers the magic of NYC during the holidays. From ice skating at Rockefeller Center to decorating Gimbels (a stand-in for Macy’s), Elf perfectly captures the city’s festive spirit.
2. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Kevin McCallister gets separated from his family again, but this time, he finds himself in NYC! From staying at The Plaza Hotel to sledding in Central Park and foiling the Wet Bandits, this sequel doubles down on holiday fun with iconic New York landmarks as its backdrop.
3. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
This timeless Christmas classic revolves around a department store, Santa, who might be the real deal. Featuring Macy’s Herald Square and the beloved Thanksgiving Day Parade, it’s a love letter to New York’s holiday traditions. The movie’s courtroom scene questioning the existence of Santa Claus is as heartwarming as it is memorable.
4. New Year’s Eve (2011)
While technically more of a New Year’s movie, this ensemble romantic comedy takes full advantage of NYC’s festive scenery. From Times Square’s countdown to personal stories of love and hope, this film reminds us why the city is the ultimate place to celebrate the holidays.
5. The Night Before (2015)
This hilarious comedy stars Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie as three lifelong friends on one last epic Christmas Eve adventure in NYC. Their quest to attend the Nutcracker Ball takes them across the city, showcasing its festive lights and nightlife.
6. Scrooged (1988)
A modern take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, this dark comedy stars Bill Murray as a cynical TV executive who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The film is set in 1980s New York and combines holiday cheer with a biting satirical edge.
7. The Family Man (2000)
Nicolas Cage stars as a wealthy businessman who wakes up one morning to find himself living the suburban life he could have had. Though much of the film takes place outside the city, its beginning and end beautifully capture NYC’s grandeur during the holidays.
8. Santa Claus: The Movie (1985)
This magical tale of Santa Claus’s origins also weaves in a subplot about an ambitious elf, played by Dudley Moore, trying to make it big in NYC. The film’s portrayal of 1980s Manhattan is nostalgic and brimming with holiday spirit.
9. Dash & Lily (Netflix Series) 2020
Though technically a series, Dash & Lily deserves a spot on this list. It follows two strangers who bond over a notebook exchanged at the Strand Bookstore. The series paints NYC as a romantic Christmas wonderland, with scenes at holiday hotspots like Dyker Heights and Grand Central Terminal.
10. Something from Tiffany’s (2022)
This newer holiday romance is a delightful addition to the genre. Set against NYC’s sparkling Christmas lights, it tells a heartfelt story of love and second chances, with plenty of cozy winter vibes.
11. Serendipity (2001)
This beloved romantic comedy begins during the holiday season, when a chance encounter at Bloomingdale’s changes two strangers’ lives. The film highlights the magic of New York during Christmas, especially with scenes at Central Park and the iconic Serendipity 3 café.
12. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
While not strictly a Christmas movie, this romantic classic features several memorable holiday moments. New York’s snowy streets and festive decorations provide the perfect backdrop for Harry and Sally’s journey from friends to lovers.
13. An American Christmas Carol (1979)
This adaptation, a unique twist on the Dickens classic, reimagines the story in 1930s America. Its use of NYC’s Depression-era settings adds historical charm to the holiday tale.
14. Carol (2015)
This romantic drama unfolds during the holiday season and features stunning depictions of 1950s New York City. The film’s attention to period detail and heartfelt story make it a holiday gem worth revisiting.
15. Noel (2004)
This underrated Christmas movie weaves together several touching stories set in NYC during the holidays. With an ensemble cast that includes Susan Sarandon and Paul Walker, the film captures the emotional highs and lows of the season.
From timeless classics like Miracle on 34th Street to modern favorites like Elf, these films prove that New York City is the ultimate holiday backdrop. Watching these movies is the perfect way to soak in the city’s festive spirit, even if you’re miles away. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle into your coziest blanket, and let NYC’s magic fill your screen this holiday season!