What free things can you do during Christmas? It’s that very very lovely time of year when everyone fortunately believes the holidays are worth spending some good money on.
Most people tend to feel that, with all the sparkling lights fun festive performances, and even just a general cheer in the air, they probably cannot afford to access everything that the season has to offer.
Year, I have learned how to do Christmas magic completely for free. New York City’s fantastic glowing showcases to culturefestive Los Angeles will show how to catch the spirit of the holidays without spending a dime in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, DC, Houston, and even London!
Free Things to Do in NYC During Christmas
New York City during Christmas makes one feel like the world stepped into a holiday movie for the city has glitz and festive music. My favorite cheap thing to do is head down to Rockefeller Center for the Christmas Tree.
Miraculously magical it is to see that iconic tree all lit the dream come alive. When I stroll down Fifth Avenue, it feels like all the store window displays become unreal, incredible works of art.
Another spot I adore is the Bryant Park Winter Village. This place has a fee unless you bring your skates, but just walking around the village is a great experience. They smell roasted chestnuts, have stalls with holiday goodies, and create the magic of the season in unforgettable ways.
I made sure to visit Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. The “Christmas lights neighborhood” offers something better; extravagant spreads decorate incredible homes. It looks like a Christmas wonderland for a walk.
Free Things to Do in Atlanta During Christmas
There’s a certain charm to the city of Atlanta during Christmas. One of my favorite suggestions is visiting Centennial Olympic Park. It is where the park is festooned with holiday lights, creating a peaceful and magical ambiance. Another highlight is walking on the Atlanta Belt Line, particularly where it meets Krog Street.
The trail is lit, and one can revel in the holiday spirit for no cost. Once I went to a local church to see a free holiday choir performance. Many Atlanta churches do free caroling events like the music just brings back the true spirit of the season.
Free Things to Do in Chicago During Christmas
It turns into a winter wonderland during Christmas, and I have had some of the best free experiences here. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is the highlight. Strolling along Michigan Avenue and taking in the fabulous light displays is one of those simple things that will put a big smile on your face.
I’ve also been hanging around Millennium Park, looking at the official Christmas tree for the city. The tree, with the skyline of Chicago in the background, is just beautiful. Bring your skates, as you can also skate for free at Maggie Daley Park’s ice rink.
Lincoln Park ZooLights has to be one of my favorite memories. While some nights do charge admission, there are certain nights where it’s free, so you want to check ahead.
Free Things to Do in DC During Christmas
Washington, DC is a great little mix of the historic and of the heritage spirit with the bright. There is nothing quite like the sight of the National Christmas Tree just off the White House. It’s surrounded by little trees that represent each state, and within it are holiday sounds.
It’s such a beauty to attend free holiday concerts at the Smithsonian Museums. I went to a great jazz holiday concert at the National Museum of American History one year – it has stuck with me! Another free activity that I love is strolling around during the holidays at the Tidal Basin. It is so tranquil, and one can very often hear carolers singing nearby.
Free Things to Do in Houston During Christmas
In Houston is the best time for outdoor holiday activities because of the pleasant weather. A Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall is one of the city’s smallest affairs, and it is always open to the community.
I have attended this event multiple times, and the wonderful festive energy is contagious. It was one year when I wandered through River Oaks, where all the neighbors put out all stops for holiday displays. It is like a DIY light fair! It is free to walk through and just chords with festivities. Another place I like to tell people about is Discovery Green.
Celebration events and displays are set up there each holiday season. I think it is a great place to soak in holiday cheer without spending anything at all.
Free Things to Do in LA During Christmas
London is one of the most magical places to celebrate Christmas in; I love wandering around it. The displays of lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street are just breathtaking. I’ve walked for hours on these streets, soaking up the very atmosphere.
Southbank Centre Winter Market is another favorite. It’s an entry-free place, full of festive vibes, and is really tempting when it comes to food and drink.
Some years ago, I attended the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. It is where Norway donates a tree to England every Christmas. The lighting ceremony includes carol singing, and this makes such a wonderful memory.
Free Things to Do in London During Christmas
London is one of the most magical places to celebrate Christmas in; I love wandering around it. The displays of lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street are just breathtaking. I’ve walked for hours on these streets, soaking up the very atmosphere of Christmas.
Southbank Centre Winter Market is another favorite. It’s an entry-free place, full of festive vibes, and is really tempting when it comes to food and drink.
Some years ago, I attended the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. It is where Norway donates a tree to England every Christmas. The lighting ceremony includes carol singing, and this makes such a wonderful memory.
General Free Things to Do During Christmas
You would still find the same activities in every city: free things to do at Christmas. One of my other favorites would be attending midnight Mass and carol services in the churches. Both are free but heartfelt experiences.
I love trudging through neighborhoods looking at all the homes that are brightly lit. Every city has its version of festive streets, and it’s an easy and free pleasure for everyone.
Finally, holiday markets are usually available across cities with no charges for entry. It would be an experience on its own just being there, even if you wouldn’t buy anything.
Free Things to Do During Christmas in Different Cities
| City | Free Activities |
| New York City | – Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.- Stroll along Fifth Avenue for festive window displays.- Explore Bryant Park Winter Village (free entry if you bring skates).- Admire the extravagant lights in Dyker Heights. |
| Atlanta | – Enjoy the holiday lights at Centennial Olympic Park.- Walk the Atlanta BeltLine during the holiday season.- Attend free holiday choir performances in local churches. |
| Chicago | – Marvel at the lights during the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.- Visit the Millennium Park Christmas Tree.- Skate for free at Maggie Daley Park’s ice rink (bring your skates).- Experience Lincoln Park ZooLights on free admission nights. |
| Washington, DC | – View the National Christmas Tree and the surrounding state trees.- Attend free holiday concerts at Smithsonian Museums.- Stroll around the Tidal Basin and enjoy carolers. |
| Houston | – Witness the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall.- Walk through River Oaks to see extravagant holiday displays.- Visit Discovery Green for festive events and displays. |
| Los Angeles | – Explore Rodeo Drive lit up with holiday lights.- Walk along the Venice Canals adorned with festive decorations.- Attend Las Posadas celebrations at Olvera Street. |
| London | – Stroll under the dazzling lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street.- Visit the Southbank Centre Winter Market.- Attend the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with carol singing. |
| General | – Join midnight Mass and carol services at local churches.- Explore neighborhoods with festive light displays.- Visit holiday markets for festive cheer and window shopping. |
The Departure
Christmas is a time for rejoicing without spending too much money enjoying it. Every city has its own “free” special thing that brings enjoyment to the holiday season. These will make my holiday seasons memorable. I hope they will encourage you to also scout and enjoy the festive season without any financial concerns. There’s Christmas magic everywhere; you just need to step out and embrace it!
There are thousands of free activities on offer in the bright lighting exhibits in Dyker Heights among others. The showcase of what makes this city the festive spirit is arguably the towering Rockefeller Center Tree.
FAQs
What are the best free activities in NYC during Christmas?
From the Rockefeller Center Tree to Dyker Heights lights, NYC offers countless free attractions that showcase the city’s festive spirit.
Which cities have the most festive free Christmas events?
In my experience, NYC, London, and Chicago top the list, but every city has its unique charm.
Are there free outdoor skating options in major cities during Christmas?
Yes! Many cities, like NYC and Chicago, offer free skating if you bring your skates.
I chronicle personal experiences and tips in such a way as to encourage even the most frugal travelers to conquer the different niches around the world.
Healthy tourism, as I might call it, restores the body, and I weave each of these destinations into a story loaded with usefulness, imagination, and a passion for exploration.
Let’s go together as I travel away from crowded places and strive to comprehend cultures and areas that are not on the map!
- Best Cheap Beach Vacations 2025- You’ve Never Heard Of - January 12, 2025
- 7 Cheap Places to Travel in January 2025 - January 8, 2025
- How to Go on a Cheap Road Trip? Ultimate Guide - January 7, 2025
