6. Washington Square Park Tree

Washington Square Park arch Christmas tree

Nestled within the opening of the Washington Square Arch you’ll find another historic New York City Christmas tree. A tree-lighting ceremony has taken place at Washington Square Park since 1924. The tree under the Arch is lit for the season between the hours of 4 pm and 1 am. Along with the traditional lighting of the tree, this festive site is also a gathering place for caroling on Christmas Eve. Every year the public is invited to belt out “Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men” and other songs of the season. You can download the Washington Square Arch caroling songbook on the Washington Square Arch Association’s website.