'Tis the Season!: A Complete Guide to Festive Fun in Park Slope 🎄❄️
If you're looking for ways to get into the holiday spirit, look no further! Here are the best holiday happenings in & around Park Slope this season, from pop-up bars to portraits with Santa.
-We’ll be adding more events throughout the season, so be sure to bookmark this page & check back frequently for updates!- 🎁
Events with an asterisk* sell out quickly— buy tickets in advance!
Ongoing Seasonal Events:
Lightscape @ Brooklyn Botanic Garden
November 22nd- January 5th
Lightscape returns this holiday season with a reimagined after-dark illuminated trail featuring light-splashed landscapes and all-new installations specially curated for BBG. Make holiday memories exploring the Garden under moonlight while enjoying magical sights, seasonal treats, and festive music. Tickets start at $12 for kids/ $24 for adults.
Santa Brunch @ Chela*
Sunday December 8th, Sunday December 15th, Saturday December 21st, & Sunday December 22nd
Chela’s themed holiday pop-up is back, and the ever-popular Santa Brunch is a highlight of the season! Ticket includes a meal (adults choose from ten entrees), soft drink, and one-on-one time with Santa Clause. If you can’t make it for Santa Brunch, swing by Chela another day to check out the festive decor, music, & food and drink specials. $25 per child/ $40 per adult.
Ice skating @ Lakeside, Prospect Park
Public ice skating sessions are held daily at The LeFrak Center, located near the Lincoln Road and Parkside/Ocean Avenue entrances to the park. Ice skate rentals are available for $10.35. Ticketing is walk-up only. $10.60 on weekdays/ $15.25 on weekends.
The Holiday Makers Show @ City Point BKLYN
Weekends from November 30th- December 22nd
Shop local at The Holiday Makers Show, which returns to City Point this year and features unique crafts, gifts, and more! The Holiday Makers Show believes in keeping resources in local economies by using sustainable materials as well as amplifying businesses owned by BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, women, and other underrepresented groups. FREE.
Christmas Lights @ Dyker Heights
Thanksgiving weekend- New Year’s Eve
Every year, this Brooklyn neighborhood goes all out with Christmas lights & decor: picture life-sized Santas, inflatable snowmen, and twinkling lights synced with Christmas carols. Book a tour or take the D Train to 79th St and walk 15 minutes to see the lights, which are concentrated mostly between 83rd to 86th St and 11th to 13th Avenues. FREE.
Sleyenda @ Leyenda Brooklyn
Daily starting November 29th
This popular Latin American restaurant in Cobble Hill transforms into a winter wonderland for the season, complete with kitschy decor and themed cocktails. This event is such a hit that Leyenda brought it back for a short time mid-summer to celebrate Christmas in July! FREE entry.
Holiday in Paradise Series @ Alamo Drafthouse*
November 29th- December 24th
Whether you’re in the mood for an It’s a Wonderful Life brunch, a The Polar Express movie party, or a 10pm showing of the Santa Slasher film Silent Night, Deadly Night, this holiday series at Downtown Brooklyn’s Alamo Drafthouse has something for you. $17.49.
The Hard Nut @ Brooklyn Academy of Music*
December 12th- 22nd
Mark Morris Dance Group presents this modern lyrical reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s beloved classic The Nutcracker. This lavish, gender-bent love letter to a canonical ballet transplants the story from the strait-laced 1890s to the swinging 70s, with raucous parties, dancing G.I. Joes, and whimsical costumes. Tchaikovsky’s complete score is performed live by the MMDG Music Ensemble. Through November 27th, buy four tickets for the price of two for select performances! Ticket prices start at $45.
BK Chalet Saloon at Clover Club (December 1st- February 28th)
On December 1st, this critically-acclaimed cocktail bar in Cobble Hill transforms into a cozy ski chalet featuring winter decor, hot drinks, cocktails, & apres ski vibes for your holiday and winter partying needs! FREE entry.
FAD Holiday Market @ Three Locations
Saturdays & Sundays December 7-8, 14-15, 21-22
This year, FAD Market pop-ups will be held over the course of three weekends at three separate locations in Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, and Dumbo. Named one of The Best Holiday Markets in NYC by TimeOut, Fashion-Art-Design Markets embrace diversity with a rotating roster of creative makers from all backgrounds who represent the talent of the city and beyond. Shop unique handcrafted art, jewelry, apparel, bath and body care, tableware, and home furnishings, plus indulge in locally crafted food and drinks. FREE.
One-Time Events:
Linocut Card Making @ Brooklyn Kura
Thursday November 21st, 6:30pm
Head to Industry City for a fun evening of craft sake and DIY crafts in the Brooklyn Kura taproom! Join host Maeve Kelly from Creatio Craft Collective to learn how to use Linocut, a printmaking technique, to craft cards—get ahead of your holiday greetings or create something for all year round! $23.96.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony @ Albee Square
Tuesday November 26th, 5-6pm
Live music performances, stilt walkers, hula twirlers, hot chocolate, cookies, and an ugly sweater contest will all be a part of this holiday kickoff celebration in Downtown Brooklyn! FREE.
Cookie & Cocktail Thanksgiving Eve Karaoke @ Whisk & Whiskey
Wednesday November 27th, 7pm
Bring your best singing voice and enjoy a cookie and Old Fashioned special for just $10 (all day), with karaoke starting at 7 PM! FREE.
Post Turkey Day Walking Tour @ Green-Wood Cemetery*
Friday November 29th, 1-3pm
After you’ve devoured the turkey and stuffed yourself with pumpkin pie, escape from the house—especially if you need a break from your guests—and enjoy a walking tour of Green-Wood. Or if the whole family is still getting along, bring everyone! Dress warmly & enjoy a late autumn stroll in one of New York’s most beautiful and historic greenspaces. $30.
Shop Small Event @ 440 Gallery
Friday November 29th, 1-6pm
Small artworks make great gifts! Stop by this artist-run gallery for a special one-day event and get started with your holiday shopping! FREE.
A Christmas Story @ Nitehawk Cinema*
Saturday November 30th, 11:30am
Head to Nitehawk’s Prospect Park West location to see this 1983 family-friendly Christmas classic for a one-time brunch showing. Be sure to order the “Pink Nightmare” paired food special! $16.75.
Wreath Workshop @ Old Stone House
Saturday November 30th, 11am & 2pm
Craft a winter wreath to adorn your home! Guidance from Old Stone House’s Director of Gardens, Sam Lewis, will be provided throughout the workshop. All materials are included, but feel free to bring in ribbon or other special things to add to your creation. $60.54.
Park Slope Holiday Tree Lighting @ Old Stone House
Saturday November 30th, 5:15pm
Kick off the holiday season with the 15th annual tree lighting hosted by Fifth Avenue BID! Take photos with Santa, enjoy Christmas crafts with Park Slope Parents, play in soapy snowflakes with Bubble Dad, write a postcard to Santa with Private Picassos, munch on a churro from Simple Loaf Bakehouse, sip hot chocolate from Chela, and listen to classic holiday songs performed live by Music with Patrick! FREE.
She Did That. Holiday Bazaar @ Industry City*
Sunday December 1st, 12-6pm
From fashion and beauty to wellness and home goods, guests can explore a wide array of offerings and support Black-owned businesses and community This year the bazaar will debut the He Did That. Marketplace, spotlighting men-owned businesses in the brand’s Trailblazers Fellowship. $23.18.
Gingerbread House Making Class @ Whisk and Whiskey*
Sunday December 1st, 2-3pm
Join Whisk & Whiskey for an afternoon filled with creativity, fun, and festive vibes! Build and decorate your own gingerbread masterpiece while sipping on complimentary prosecco or hot cocoa. Perfect for all ages! $45.
Holiday Market Extravaganza @ Ginger’s Bar
Sunday December 1st, 2-6pm
Shop unique holiday gifts and support queer vendors & artists at the fourth annual Holiday Market Extravaganza at Ginger’s Bar. Art, jewelry, decor, gifts, tarot readings, and a sexy Santa & Mrs. Claus photoshoot. FREE entry.
Winter Wonderland Market @ Sunset Park Waterfront
Friday December 6th 3-7pm, Saturday & Sunday December 7th and 8th 10-5pm
South Brooklyn Mutual Aid’s first-ever Winter Wonderland Market will feature 30+ local vendors plus food, drink, family-friendly activities, and entertainment that showcases the incredible diversity of Brooklyn’s immigrant communities. A portion of proceeds will support the South Brooklyn Sanctuary and their vital immigration legal services. FREE entry.
Photos with Santa @ Old Stone House*
Saturday December 7th, 10:30am
Park Slope Parents and Park Slope Fifth Avenue BID host this popular photo opp with Santa. Photographer Marc Goldberg will make his professional photos available on his website for purchase, and attendees are welcome to snap their own photos as well. $33.85.
Party Like It’s 1999: All I Want For Christmas is Mariah Edition @ The Bell House
Saturday December 7th, 10pm
Head to The Bell House to pay tribute to the singer of the best Christmas song of all time! This event will feature that classic holiday tune as well as blocks from the Mariah Carey catalog. Join DJ Steve Reynolds for Brooklyn’s best 90s and 00s party with a mix of your favorite pop, R&B, rock, hip-hop, and dance tunes. 21+. FREE.
Wallabout Wonderland @ Brooklyn Navy Yard
Saturday December 7th- Sunday, December 8th, 12-5pm
Shop handmade jewelry, one-of-a-kind home décor pieces, and rare fashion finds from local artisans and designers at the 7th edition of this holiday market at Brooklyn Navy Yard. Featuring 200+ vendors in art, design, beauty, personal care, unique gifts, and fashion—plus tasty eats! FREE.
Holiday Shop @ PS 321, 180 7th Avenue
Saturday December 7th, 10am-5pm
Find a gift for everyone on your list! The PS 321 Holiday Shop will feature over 90 local artisans selling jewelry, soap, ceramics, home decor, and more! Plus, enjoy a holiday bake sale, caroling, and a craft room for the kids. FREE.
The 12th Annual Greenwood Park Tree Lighting @ Greenwood Park
Saturday, December 7th, 4pm
This annual celebration kicks off at 4pm with wreath making, Christmas carols, seasonal treats, and photos with Santa, followed by the tree lighting at 6pm. FREE.
Holiday Portraits with Santa @ City Point Bklyn*
Saturdays & Sundays, December 7th, 8th, 14th, & 15th
Reserve a spot to capture the joy of the season with a free portrait at the Santa Studio, featuring the jolly man himself in a red suit and a holiday-inspired backdrop. On December 15, both Mama and Papa Claus will be in attendance! Additional photos available for purchase. FREE- reservations recommended.
Holiday Bazaar @ Wise Wonder Park Slope
Sunday December 8th, 11am-2pm
This family-friendly market is a perfect place for little ones to dive into the joy of holiday shopping for their loved ones! Explore a variety of local vendors, perfect for finding unique gifts! Enjoy delicious treats, warm drinks, and a create-your-own festive wrapping paper station! FREE.
The Brooklyn Nutcracker @ The Theatre at City Tech*
Thursday December 12th- Sunday December 15th
The Brooklyn Nutcracker, performed by the Brooklyn Ballet, transforms familiar Nutcracker characters and scenes to represent the heart of Brooklyn's cultural mosaic. From a mysterious pop and locking Herr Drosselmeyer and a daring hip hop battle scene, to a bohemian Mother Ginger, the characters embark on an enchanting journey from Victorian Flatbush to modern day—with exciting detours through notable Brooklyn landmarks, including a visit to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and a Flatbush Avenue subway platform. Tickets start at $35.
Annual Christmas Party @ Whisk & Whiskey
Friday December 13th, 7pm-12am
Head to Whisk & Whiskey’s 3rd annual Christmas party for holiday vibes, a Rum Tasting sponsored by Ten to One Rum, drink specials, and music by DJ Cha Cha and RedRum Sounds to keep the energy high all night long. FREE.
Winter Wonderland Pawty @ Prospect Bark Daycare
Saturday December 14th, 11am-5pm
Pups and their families are invited to join Prospect Bark for this winter wonderland event featuring a holiday photo booth, refreshments for hoomans, a holiday treat bar for dogs, a kids crafting table, mini tours of the facility and more! FREE.
Holiday Market Pop-Up @ Powerhouse Arts
Saturday December 14th, 11am-6pm
Get your holiday shopping done and support the arts at the same time! Non-profit arts organization Powerhouse Arts have partnered with Brooklyn Pop-Up for this first-ever holiday market. The market will feature a curated selection of more than 100 vendors selling clothes, jewelry, candles, ceramics, prints, and much more—including wrapping paper designed by PHA collaborating artists. Plus: craft-making activities, gift wrapping, DJs, and raffles! FREE entry.
A Drinking Game NYC—Elf @ The Bell House
Saturday December 14th, 7pm
In this series, talented actors perform a live staged reading of cult classics from the 80s and 90s. Each movie comes with a list of buzzwords and phrases—when you hear one, a bell rings and everybody drinks! Plus, when someone says a name, the actor playing that character has to drink. As the evening progresses, the show's bound to get a little wacky. 21+. $25.05.
Visit From Santa @ 4th Street Plaza
Saturday, December 14th, 5-7pm
Meet by the tree on 4th Street and 5th Ave for a special visit from Santa! FREE.
Holiday Extravaganza @ Brooklyn Conservatory*
Sunday December 15th, 3-5pm
Join Brooklyn Conservatory for their first Holiday Extravaganza, a multicultural, inclusive winter celebration! The event will take place throughout the building and outside in the garden and will feature BKCM’s Klezmer Hanukkah Ensemble Christmas, caroling on the stoop, David Bertrand’s Calypso holiday band, a sing-along of Handel’s Messiah, a holiday music instrument exploration for kids, and holiday crafts from around the world. Currently SOLD OUT but more tickets will be released on Friday, December 13th. $20 suggested donation.
Love & Latkes @ Family Lab (Boerum Hill)
Sunday December 15th, 4-6pm
Families with young children will enjoy this delicious dinner of crispy latkes and sweet applesauce, sing along, stories, and interactive learning experience to celebrate holidays and delve into life-long Jewish values. Jump into the kitchen this Hanukkah to get a little bit messy and have a whole lot of fun. Whether it’ll be your first time frying in hot oil or if you’re bringing your own home grown family recipes, everyone is invited! $50-$85 per family.
Watercolor Painted Holiday Cards @ Grounded Cafe
Sunday December 15th, 12-1pm
Private Picassos will lead this beginner-friendly workshop for adults. Learn basic watercolor techniques and complete a series of watercolor painted cards! Techniques such as dry brush and wet into wet will be demonstrated by a teacher, followed by ample time for students to experiment with the techniques on their own. Each student will create a set of 5 cards with matching envelopes. Ticket includes all supplies plus one drink. $50.
2nd Annual Nutcracker Painting Party @ Brewer’s Row
Thursday December 19th, 8pm
Stop by this Park Slope Beer Bar for some prime holiday action and take a crack at painting a nutcracker! They’ll be playing Christmas movies and music, while dishing out warm cookies and mulled wine too! FREE admission.
Menorahs and Mistletoe Holi-Gay Show @ Ginger’s Bar
Thursday December 19th, 7-8:30pm
Cozy up at Ginger’s Bar for this holiday variety show featuring music, comedy, and more! FREE.
Santa Is Coming To Town @ Good Day Play Cafe
Friday December 20th, 3:30-5:30pm
Come meet Santa, take pictures and play! Take a picture with Santa and enjoy a snowman stocking foam ornament craft kit, hot cocoa, pizza for the kids, a goodie bag, and free play. $54.44 per child.
Decorate a Gingerbread House @ Private Picassos*
Saturday December 21st, 10am
Decorate a gingerbread house from Buttermilk Bakeshop, complete with frosting and assorted candy! An art teacher on site will offer guidance and decoration tips throughout the workshop. Ideal for kids ages 2-15, with adult participation required. $50.
Lighting of Brooklyn’s Largest Menorah—Kickoff Event @ Grand Army Plaza
Wednesday December 25th, 4pm
Every night of Chanukah is celebrated with the lighting of Brooklyn’s largest Menorah, live music, hot latkes and gifts for the kids! The first night will feature a Kickoff Concert Event beginning at 4:00 pm. FREE.
Celebrate Kwanzaa @ Brooklyn Children’s Museum:
Thursday December 26th- Monday December 30th
Presented in partnership with Brooklyn-based Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation, each day of Celebrate Kwanzaa features a mix of repeating and unique programs designed for all ages. This year’s theme is “Our Children Enlighten the Community",” and will highlight professional youth performers who embody the Nguzo Saba (principles of Kwanzaa). Explore the seven principles of Kwanzaa with daily candle celebrations led by Chinua Baraka Payne and the Asase Yaa Youth Ensemble, performances with the Kudo NYC, FIYAA (Forces of Nature Incredible Youth Arts Alliance), dance and drumming workshops, grafitti-inspired artwork in ColorLab and more! $15.