For a century, The Rockettes have been synonymous with Christmas in New York City. As the iconic dance troupe celebrates its 100th anniversary, Rockette Brooklyn Bronson offers a behind-the-scenes look at how she experiences the city’s holiday season.
Although it’s only mid-December, Bronson says Christmas has already been part of her life for months.
“We start rehearsals in September, so Christmas comes very early for us,” she says. Now in her fourth season with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Bronson spends six hours a day rehearsing, six days a week. “And I love it. Christmas is my favourite holiday, so I’m happy to live in it for a while.”
The Rockettes have long embodied the spirit of Christmas in New York. Their precision kicks evoke classic images of snow-dusted Central Park, glittering Fifth Avenue windows, and scenes immortalised in films and holiday traditions. Each year, millions of visitors travel to the city hoping to experience that festive magic firsthand.
From Childhood Dream to Rockette Stage
Sitting in her dressing room, sparkling in her signature costume, Bronson recalls a childhood photo of herself meeting a Rockette at age eight.
“I saw the show for the first time and immediately fell in love,” says Bronson, who grew up in the Pacific Northwest. “Meeting a Rockette inspired me. Becoming one was my dream, and even now, every time I put on the costume, I still think, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m a Rockette.’”
From November through New Year’s, the troupe can perform up to four shows a day. Despite the demanding schedule, Bronson says the joy never fades.
“It’s special whether it’s someone’s first time seeing the show or their 60th. Families come every year as a tradition, and being part of that is incredibly meaningful.”
Brooklyn Bronson’s Favorite Ways to Enjoy NYC at Christmas
When she’s not performing, Bronson fully embraces the city’s holiday offerings. For her, the official start of Christmas in New York arrives with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, followed closely by the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, where the Rockettes also perform.
One of her favourite winter treats is hot chocolate. She recommends Serendipity, Glace at Rockefeller Center, and Bryant Park Winter Village for their festive drinks. Watching ice skaters glide by while holding a warm cup, she says, is a classic New York Christmas experience.
For quieter moments, Bronson enjoys afternoon tea at The Plaza Hotel, especially with family, and recommends La Grande Boucherie for a holiday meal thanks to its elegant garlands and seasonal décor.
Holiday shopping isn’t complete without a stroll along Fifth Avenue to admire iconic window displays, while Chelsea Market and McNally Jackson Bookstore are her go-to spots for thoughtful New York–inspired gifts.
Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park remains her favourite holiday activity, followed by walks through the Upper East Side, where elaborately decorated stoops bring extra charm to the season.
As for Christmas trees, Bronson’s top pick is at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where art, history, and holiday tradition come together.
“It’s beautiful every single year,” she says—just like Christmas in New York City.