Wondering where to watch Christmas movies in NYC — besides the comfort of your cozy apartment?
Fortunately, NYC is turning into a winter wonderland, and that includes movie theaters, famous attractions, and beyond. Special Christmas screenings are taking place throughout the city, and we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites this December, if you’re searching for inspo.
While you’re busy crafting your holiday to-do list (and your wishlist for Kris Kringle) make sure to check out these cool screenings. And, if you’re up for a mini escape, the nation’s first-ever Christmas movie trail is taking place right outside NYC.
1. IFC Center
While it’s easy to get caught up in new releases and the ever-growing list of Hallmark holiday movies, IFC Center is taking a step back in time with a classic Christmas film: It’s A Wonderful Life. The ’40s favorite might have heavy undertones, but it’s essential for ringing in the season.
The theater will screen the movie multiple times throughout the season beginning December 6th, and it will even host special events, including an introduction with Donna Reed’s daughter, Mary Owen.
View the schedule and secure tickets on the IFC website.
📍 323 6th Ave
2. The Empire State Building
If you’re looking for movies with a view, The Empire State Building has you covered.
You’re encouraged to sport your ugly Christmas sweaters to screenings of:
- Elf, select dates from December 1st to December 17th
- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York: December 5th and December 11th
- The Nightmare Before Christmas: December 13th
If you need us, we’ll be venturing to a winter wonderland alongside Jack Skellington.
View the schedule and secure tickets on the Empire State Building website.
📍 20 W 34th Street
3. Regal Cinemas
To ring in the most wonderful time of year, Regal Cinemas screens Christmas classics for a generous $5 on select dates. On the docket this year is the following:
- Elf
- A Christmas Story
- The Polar Express
- National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
We’re all over this deal the way Cousin Eddie intrudes on Clark Griswold’s good, old-fashioned family Christmas. Find a theater and screening near you on the Regal website.
📍 Various locations
4. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Buddy the Elf is making the rounds this holiday season, and one of his stops includes the Alamo Drafthouse, one of NYC’s favorite dine-in theaters.
Alamo takes the screening up a notch and offers an Elf Movie party, which features festive props, a gift-wrap challenge, and elf hats all before the film begins. Considering “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear” — according to Buddy himself — you can consider this event a no-brainer in our book.
View the schedule and secure tickets on the Alamo Drafthouse website.
📍 Various locations
5. White Christmas 70th Anniversary: Various Theaters
The iconic Christmas film is celebrating a milestone this year, and theaters are ringing in the occasion with screenings across the city on December 15th, 16th, and 17th.
View the schedule and secure tickets.
📍 Various locations
So, which film is on your list? Since we’re partial to the Christmas season and spooky season, you can find us at ESB with Jack, Sally, Zero, and co.