New York City may be the unofficial capital of holiday traditions, but there’s more to the season than the Rockefeller tree and department store windows. These five activities bring a fresh spin to festive fun and are ideal for families looking to make unique holiday memories. Plus, they’re way less crowded than fighting for a glimpse of the Rockettes.

1. Curling Café and Bar

Think of it as ice skating’s quirky cousin but without the actual ice (or risk of anyone taking an unexpected tumble). Iceless curling at the Curling Café , which is part of Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, is a low-pressure, all-ages activity that gets everyone involved, whether you’re strategizing, sliding, or just cheering from the sidelines. With a heated dome to relax in between games, it’s like having your own cozy winter hangout. Plus, you can check out the stalls filled with unique gifts for the holidays before or after your game.

While traditional holiday outings like ice skating at Bryant Park are magical, they’re also packed and competitive for rink space. Curling, on the other hand, offers a more intimate experience—complete with comfort food like mac & cheese and hot chocolate. It’s the perfect blend of festive fun and chill vibes.

2. Grand Kyiv Ballet’s Nutcracker in Brooklyn

Ballets are a classic holiday tradition, but this version of The Nutcracker adds a powerful story of resilience and culture. Seeing the Grand Kyiv Ballet brings more than just enchanting dances and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score—it offers kids and parents alike a chance to connect with the importance of art as a means of perseverance. With tickets starting at under $40, it’s also a budget-friendly way to expose your family to world-class performances.

Most families stick to seeing The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, but this Brooklyn performance comes with heart and a mission. Knowing that part of the proceeds help rebuild Ukraine’s Kyiv State Choreographic College adds a meaningful layer to the experience—and makes it more than just a show.

3. Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy at The Shed

Luna Luna is like stepping into a dreamland that merges art, carnival rides, and whimsy—perfect for curious kids and artsy adults. Where else can you see a Ferris wheel painted by Jean-Michel Basquiat or ride a carousel designed by Arik Brauer? It’s interactive, creative, and unlike anything else, keeping kids entertained while inspiring parents with its artistic roots.

Holiday light displays are a dime a dozen, but Luna Luna takes festive visuals to another level. Instead of walking through a generic setup of twinkling lights, your family can explore exhibits and rides created by some of the most famous artists of the 20th century. It’s a fairground, an art museum, and a memory-making experience all rolled into one.

4. The Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History

If your kids have a knack for crafts or a deep fascination with animals, this tree will leave them wide-eyed. Featuring over 1,000 origami models of leaping creatures, the tree is a celebration of creativity and biology. It’s a low-key activity for families who love to take their time marveling at the intricate details of something truly unique.

Traditional holiday trees, like the Rockefeller Center giant, are breathtaking but can feel impersonal. The Origami Holiday Tree, on the other hand, has character and charm in spades. Each folded animal tells a story, sparking curiosity in ways a regular evergreen just can’t match. Bonus: You’re indoors, so no freezing toes while you admire it.

5. The Great Borough Bake-Off

What’s better than a gingerbread house? A gingerbread Wonder Wheel. The Bake-Off is like a walk-through version of The Great British Bake-Off, where your kids can marvel at (and maybe drool over) edible works of art. It’s a great way to inspire little bakers and indulge in some holiday sweetness without baking a mess into your own kitchen.

Many families opt for DIY gingerbread kits at home, but seeing the level of artistry on display here elevates the tradition. These creations—like Susanna Caliendo’s gum-and-gingerbread Wonder Wheel—turn a simple holiday activity into a larger-than-life spectacle.

Each of these unique holiday experiences offers something different from the typical NYC traditions. Whether you’re curling under a heated dome, watching an inspiring ballet, stepping into a surreal art carnival, admiring origami animals, or indulging in gingerbread masterpieces, these activities create lasting memories without the usual holiday chaos. Skip the lines at Rockefeller Center and embrace the new—and possibly even better—ways to celebrate the season with your family.