The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is much more than just a Christmas show: it’s a true New York institution that has been embodying the magic of the festive season for almost a century. If there’s only one show you need to see in New York this Christmas, this is it. Here’s everything you need to know about this unforgettable experience.
Introducing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is the most famous Christmas show in the world, presented every year at the legendary Radio City Music Hall. At the heart of this exceptional show are the Rockettes, the most emblematic troupe of dancers in the history of American entertainment.
This 90-minute, non-intermission show features nine dazzling numbers combining precision dancing, spectacular special effects, lavish sets and festive music. Each performance brings together 90 Rockettes dancers (divided into two alternating troupes), 62 musicians, 40 stagehands and a host of other artists and technicians.
Emblematic numbers
The show includes several legendary moments that have spanned the decades:
- “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers”: the most iconic number, performed since 1933, where the Rockettes dressed as wooden soldiers march and fall like dominoes in a perfectly synchronised military choreography
- “The Living Nativity”: a living Nativity scene with real animals
- “New York at Christmas”: a modern number featuring an authentic double-decker bus on stage
- The final scene with Father Christmas: the magical climax of the show
The Rockettes perform more than 200 kicks during each performance with the millimeter precision for which they are renowned worldwide. Their perfect synchronisation is the result of hours of intensive training and exceptional technique.
The story of a legend
The origins of the Rockettes (1925-1932)
The story begins in 1925 in Saint Louis, Missouri, where Russell Markert created a troupe of 16 dancers called the Missouri Rockets. His revolutionary concept was to create a “precision dancing” show in which all the dancers performed the same movements in perfect synchronisation, forming a uniform, elegant line.
In 1928, the troupe moved to New York and performed at the Roxy Theatre under the name of the Roxyettes. Their success was immediate.
Installation at Radio City Music Hall (1932)
On December 27, 1932, the dancers made their debut at Radio City Music Hall, which had just opened its doors. This majestic art deco theatre, nicknamed “The Showplace of the Nation”, became their permanent home. In 1934, they officially adopted the name Radio City Rockettes.
The birth of the Christmas Spectacular (1933)
The first Christmas Spectacular was first staged in 1933, just one year after the opening of Radio City Music Hall. It was on this occasion that the number “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” was created, and it is still performed today, 92 years later!
For over 40 years (from the 1930s to the 1970s), the Rockettes also performed as the opening act before film screenings at Radio City, accompanying such classics as King Kong (1933), Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), Mary Poppins (1964) and White Christmas (1954).
A place in American history
The Rockettes are an integral part of American culture:
- During the Second World War, they were among the first performers to volunteer for the USO, entertaining American troops
- Since 1957, they have taken part in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
- In 1988, they performed at the Super Bowl Halftime Show
- They have performed for several US presidents
2025: the centenary of the Rockettes
The year 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the creation of the Rockettes, making this season of the Christmas Spectacular a particularly special one. Special events and exhibitions celebrating this centenary are being presented at Radio City Music Hall, and an exclusive collection of merchandise is available to spectators.
How much does a ticket to the show cost?
Ticket prices for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular vary considerably depending on a number of factors:
Variable pricing
Prices depend on the following:
- Date and time: weekend performances, school holidays and Christmas week are more expensive
- Location in the hall: from the Orchestra section to the Third Mezzanine
- The time of purchase: booking in advance often results in better prices
Price ranges
Base price :
- Tickets generally start at between $50 and $80 for the least desirable located seats
- Orchestra and first mezzanine seats cost between $100 and $200
- The best seats (first rows of the orchestra) can cost $250 to $350 or more
Discounts available:
- Group discounts: for groups of 9 people or more
- Special rates at the start of the season (November and early December)
- Occasional promotions with promo codes (up to $10 off on certain platforms)
Where and when can I buy tickets?
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is one of the most popular shows in the United States. With over a million spectators each season, tickets sell out very quickly, especially for performances on the weekends in December and Christmas week.
Important: This is a seasonal show that runs only during the holiday season, from November 6, 2025 to January 4, 2026. If you’re planning a trip to New York over the Christmas period, don’t wait to book your tickets for an absolutely magical and unforgettable evening!
Which seats to choose?
Radio City Music Hall has over 6,000 seats spread over four levels. All offer good visibility, but some locations are more advantageous than others.
Architecture of the hall
Levels :
- Orchestra: main level on the ground floor
- First Mezzanine: first balcony
- Second Mezzanine: second balcony
- Third Mezzanine: third balcony
The auditorium is designed in an arc with excellent acoustics and visibility from almost every seat.
The best seats
Orchestra in the centre (rows J to T):
Price: $$$$ (the most expensive)
First Mezzanine in the centre (rows A to E):
Price: $$$ (medium-high price)
Orchestra on the sides (2, 3, 5, 6) :
Price: $$ (average price)
Places to avoid or less recommended
1st rows of the Orchestra
(AA to HH)
Recommended only if you like to be close to the action
3rd Mezzanine
Acceptable if you have a limited budget
Back rows & side seats 1&7
Very wide angle of vision
My opinion of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an absolute must if you’re in New York over the festive season. It’s the very essence of New York Christmas magic packed into 90 minutes of pure enchantment.
Yes, it’s very popular. But it’s also extraordinary. The artistic quality, the beautiful sets, the emotional highlights and the centuries-old history of this show make it a unique experience you’ll never forget.
My recommendation: book your tickets as soon as possible, aim for seats in the First Mezzanine centre for the best value for money, and get ready to experience a magical moment. You’ll leave Radio City Music Hall with stars in your eyes and Christmas spirit in your heart.
Practical information
Dates and times
2025 season: from November 6, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Performance times :
- Several performances per day (generally 2 to 5 depending on the dates)
- Typical times: 11am, 2pm, 5pm, 8pm
- Consult the calendar for exact times
Important: the show starts at the exact time announced. Latecomers may only enter at the discretion of the management and at an appropriate time during the show.
Location and access
Radio City Music Hall 1260 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), between 50th and 51st Streets Rockefeller Center New York, NY 10020
Underground (most convenient) :
5th Avenue/53rd Street station: lines E, M (6 minutes away)
Bus: lines M5, M7, M50
By car: several car parks nearby, but very expensive ($45-60 on average). The metro is highly recommended.
Duration and format
Total running time: 90 minutes
Intermission: none (continuous show)
Language: mainly visual and musical, with minimal dialogue in English
Accessibility and catering
The hall is fully accessible:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating
- Lifts to all levels
- Accessible toilets
- Assistive listening systems available
- Audio description devices available
Concessions at Radio City Music Hall :
- Snacks, drinks, sweets available
- High prices (typical of theatres)
- No outside food or drink allowed
Arrival and recommended age
Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before the start time for :
- Avoid stress
- Collect your tickets if necessary
- Enjoy the festive atmosphere in the hall
- Take photos
- Buy souvenirs
- Use the toilets before the show
The show is suitable for all ages. However:
- All spectators (including babies) must have a ticket
- Recommended for children aged 4 and over, who can remain seated for 90 minutes
- Younger children may become impatient (no intermission)
Frequently asked questions
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a seasonal show presented each year during the festive season. For the 2025 season, the show runs from November 6, 2025 to January 4, 2026 at Radio City Music Hall.
The show lasts 90 minutes, with no intermission. It’s a continuous show, with nine spectacular acts performed without interruption.
No, there is no strict dress code. Smart casual is appropriate. Evening shows often inspire dressier attire, while matinees are more casual, especially for families. Bring a warm coat for outside in winter.
No, photos and videos are strictly forbidden during the performance. However, you can take as many photos as you like in the theatre lobby and in front of Radio City Music Hall before and after the show.
Radio City Music Hall is located in Rockefeller Center, one of New York’s most festive areas at Christmas. In the immediate vicinity:
- Rockefeller Center’s famous Christmas tree
- The ice rink at Rockefeller Center
- The illuminated shop windows of 5th Avenue
- Central Park (10-minute walk)
- Times Square (5 minutes’ walk)
It’s the perfect place for a full day of Christmas magic!
