5 Iconic Christmas Movies Set in New York That Capture Holiday Magic
As the holiday season rolls around, our screens fill with an endless stream of Christmas movies, each offering its own take on festive magic. But if you look closely, a familiar backdrop appears again and again: New York City. And honestly, it’s no surprise. There’s just something about the city’s undeniable energy, glistening streets, and larger-than-life charm that makes it the perfect setting for a Christmas story.
From the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the sparkling window displays along Fifth Avenue, NYC practically becomes a character of its own during the holidays. The twinkling lights, the crisp winter air, the bustling crowds balancing shopping bags and hot cocoa—it’s all effortlessly cinematic. Whether it’s a cozy family classic or a swoon-worthy rom-com, New York has a way of wrapping the Christmas spirit in its iconic skyline and delivering a vibe that feels both timeless and magical.
It’s no wonder so many of our favorite holiday films are set in this bustling, snow-dusted wonderland. So if you’re craving a movie night filled with festive cheer and a side of big-city sparkle, look no further. Without further ado, here are the Top 5 Christmas Movies Set in New York City—guaranteed to bring the holiday magic straight to your screen.
5. Serendipity (2001)
Serendipity is one of those underrated romantic gems that often gets overlooked among the more traditional holiday classics. But make no mistake—this cozy, fate-driven love story deserves a spot on your festive watchlist. Set against the enchanting winter backdrop of New York City during Christmastime, the film follows Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale), two strangers who cross paths in the middle of holiday chaos and instantly feel an undeniable connection.
Despite both being in relationships, they spend a magical evening together wandering the snow-dusted streets of Manhattan, sharing laughs, secrets, and the kind of once-in-a-lifetime chemistry that feels straight out of, well, a movie. But rather than exchange numbers, they decide to leave their future up to fate. Sara writes her contact info in a book, and Jonathan scribbles his on a five-dollar bill. If destiny wants them to reunite, the universe will make it happen.
Years pass. Both are engaged to other people, living their separate lives—yet neither can shake the memory of that one perfect night. As Christmas rolls around again, they each find themselves pulled back into a whirlwind search for one another, chasing down clues in the very city where it all began.
While Christmas serves as the glittering backdrop, Serendipity is really about the magic of timing, the belief in destiny, and the hope that true love can defy all odds. It’s a refreshing twist on the typical holiday rom-com, steering clear of overplayed clichés and leaning into something a bit more whimsical and bittersweet. With its dreamy New York setting, sparkling chemistry, and just the right dash of holiday spirit, Serendipity is the perfect movie for anyone who still believes the universe has a plan—and that sometimes, love really is written in the stars.
4. Scrooged (1988)
Scrooged (1988) offers a brilliantly twisted, darkly comedic spin on the timeless Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Set in the fast-paced, cynical world of modern-day New York City, the film follows Frank Cross (played to perfection by Bill Murray), a cold-hearted, wildly egotistical television executive whose sole focus is ratings, money, and his own ambition. But with Christmas looming, Frank is about to get a wake-up call—three wildly unconventional, and hilariously terrifying, ghosts arrive to drag him through his past, present, and future, forcing him to confront the wreckage of his life and the emptiness of his success.
What makes Scrooged stand out from the countless retellings of this classic redemption story is its fearless blend of sharp humor and genuine creepiness. It’s equal parts holiday satire, supernatural thriller, and heartfelt morality tale, wrapped up in a slick, fast-paced 80s package. The ghosts are as unnerving as they are hilarious, and the film isn’t afraid to lean into the darker edges of Frank’s journey while still delivering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.
And of course, none of it would work without Bill Murray at the helm. At the height of his comedic powers, Murray delivers a pitch-perfect performance—sarcastic, manic, vulnerable, and, ultimately, sincerely moving. His transformation from ruthless exec to redeemed man is not only believable but surprisingly touching, proving that even the most hardened cynics aren’t beyond saving during the holidays.
With its razor-sharp wit, haunting visuals, and Bill Murray’s magnetic charm, Scrooged is the ultimate offbeat Christmas movie—a perfect choice for anyone looking for a little more bite with their holiday cheer.
3. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
Miracle on 34th Street is the very definition of a holiday classic, and the 1994 remake beautifully carries on the legacy of its beloved predecessor. Set against the sparkling, snow-dusted backdrop of New York City at Christmastime, this film is pure, heartfelt magic from start to finish. The story follows young Susan Walker (played by the ever-charming Mara Wilson), a practical, no-nonsense little girl raised to believe that miracles—and Santa Claus—are nothing more than fairy tales. But everything changes when she meets a kind, bearded man named Kris Kringle (portrayed with warmth and wonder by Richard Attenborough), who claims to be the real Santa himself.
What unfolds is more than just a sweet Christmas story—it’s a touching, thoughtful exploration of belief, hope, and the magic that happens when we allow ourselves to embrace the impossible. As Susan struggles to keep her skepticism intact, Kris’s quiet, gentle insistence that miracles do exist slowly works its way into her heart, reminding us all that Christmas is about so much more than decorations and gifts.
Beyond its moving story, Miracle on 34th Street perfectly captures the timeless allure of New York City during the holidays. From the dazzling department store window displays to the buzz of center city streets, and of course, the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the film is a love letter to the season and to the city itself. Every scene feels like a warm, cinematic snow globe—a picture-perfect slice of Christmas in the Big Apple.
With its top-notch performances, heart-melting message, and a setting that practically glows with holiday spirit, Miracle on 34th Street has rightfully earned its spot as a must-watch Christmas tradition for viewers of all ages. It’s the kind of film that reminds us why we believe in the first place—and why sometimes, a little faith is all you really need.
2. Elf (2003)
Written by David Berenbaum, Elf hit theaters in 2003 and wasted no time becoming an instant holiday classic. Anchored by a career-defining, endlessly quotable performance from Will Ferrell, the film follows the story of Buddy—a human who, after accidentally crawling into Santa’s sack as a baby, is raised at the North Pole by Santa’s elves. When Buddy discovers the truth about his origins, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father and, of course, sprinkle a little Christmas cheer along the way.
Ferrell’s portrayal of Buddy is pure comedic magic. With his wide-eyed innocence, boundless enthusiasm, and over-the-top holiday spirit, Buddy is the heart and soul of the film. Whether he’s marveling at revolving doors, declaring his love for syrup on spaghetti, or loudly shouting “Santa! I know him!”, Buddy’s childlike wonder makes Elf as hilarious as it is heartfelt. It’s the role that not only cemented Ferrell as a comedy powerhouse but also gifted us with one of the most lovable holiday characters of all time.
But beyond the laughs, Elf delivers a story that hits all the right notes about family, belonging, and the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a film packed with iconic lines, unforgettable moments, and a whimsical New York City holiday backdrop that makes it feel timeless. Over two decades later, Elf hasn’t just maintained its place in the holiday movie hall of fame—it’s grown even bigger, introducing new generations to Buddy’s infectious joy and proving that the best way to spread Christmas cheer really is singing loud for all to hear.
1. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
When Home Alone hit theaters in 1990, it became an instant sensation. With its perfect mix of slapstick comedy, heartfelt family moments, and clever action, it quickly won over audiences of all ages and secured its spot as a holiday classic. So naturally, after that overwhelming success, a sequel was inevitable. Enter Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), which took everything people loved about the original and cranked it up—this time setting Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) loose in one of the most iconic Christmas cities in the world.
While many fans still consider the first film unbeatable, there’s no denying that Home Alone 2 raises the stakes. With a bigger budget and an even wilder series of booby traps, the sequel delivers high-energy antics as Kevin once again finds himself face-to-face with the bumbling burglars Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern). But this time, the playground isn’t just his suburban house—it’s New York City at Christmastime, and that’s exactly what makes this sequel shine.
From the shimmering lights of Rockefeller Center’s iconic Christmas tree to the toy stores decked out in holiday splendor, Home Alone 2 fully embraces the magic of a New York winter. The city itself becomes part of the adventure, transforming into a sparkling, snow-covered wonderland that feels tailor-made for Kevin’s hijinks. And while the traps get bigger and the stunts more outrageous, the film still manages to serve up those cozy holiday themes of kindness, family, and unexpected friendship (shoutout to the unforgettable Pigeon Lady).
With its blend of action, comedy, and that unbeatable New York holiday atmosphere, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York stands tall as a sequel that not only holds its own but has become a festive favorite in its own right—proving that getting lost in the Big Apple at Christmas might just be the best adventure of all.
