The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is presenting a comprehensive holiday experience filled with festive displays, dining, shopping, and performances. Visitors can enjoy iconic seasonal features such as the annual Christmas tree and menorah, alongside special exhibitions and family programs.
The centerpiece is the 20-foot blue spruce Christmas Tree with an 18th-century Neapolitan Baroque crèche in the Medieval Sculpture Hall. The display features over 70 figures including shepherds, the Magi, and townspeople, complemented by nearly 50 animals and detailed background elements creating a rich Nativity scene. In honor of Hanukkah, a large silver menorah from 1866-72, on loan from The Moldovan Family Collection, is exhibited in the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts galleries, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and commemorating an important Jewish historical event.
Holiday Decorations and Programs
At The Met Cloisters, the medieval “Christmastide” celebration begins from mid-December through early January. Visitors enter under archways adorned with holly, symbolizing warmth and welcome. The gardens and cloisters are decorated with fresh ivy, apples, hazelnuts, and pinecones, with fragrant plants like citrus and rosemary enhancing the festive atmosphere.
For families, The Met offers engaging activities such as the Art Trek program for children ages 7-11 and Start with Art for ages 3-6. Family Afternoons provide hands-on art-making, and special workshops at The Cloisters teach participants to make holiday wreaths using symbolic plants. Holiday-themed storytimes and caroling performances are also scheduled throughout the season.
Seasonal Dining and Shopping
Visitors can sample festive food and drinks at dining venues including the American Wing Cafe and The Great Hall Balcony Cafe. Members enjoy exclusive table service at the Balcony Lounge with seasonal menus and specialty beverages. The Met Store offers an extensive art-inspired holiday collection featuring jewelry, ornaments, home décor, and educational toys, available both in-store and online.
Exhibitions and Performances
Holiday visitors can explore special exhibitions such as Divine Egypt, Man Ray: When Objects Dream, and The Paintings of Helene Schjerfbeck. The Met’s performance series includes concerts like ETHEL’s seasonal string quartets and Renaissance music marathons by The Clarion Choir at The Cloisters.
The Met Fifth Avenue is open Thursday through Tuesday with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, while The Met Cloisters shares similar schedule availability. Both venues are closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Admission for local residents and students is pay-what-you-wish, encouraging broad access. For full details on events and operating hours, visitors are encouraged to consult The Met’s official website.
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