December is here, and it’s turning the holiday hype all the way up. Forget just holing up with chestnuts roasting on an open fire — this month is packed with next-level experiences that’ll have you embracing the festive frenzy. From dazzling holiday events to the world’s most buzzed-about art fair, there’s enough magic to help us end this long, strange year on a high note. Keep reading for all the experiential inspo you need, including how our XP Land XLISTERS are setting the scene everywhere from a pop-up in NYC to the closing night of The Eras tour in Vancouver.
HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES
The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes: Throughout December; NYC
A classic NYC tradition since 1933, the “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes,” is a 90-minute extravaganza at Radio City Music Hall featuring over 140 performers, including the iconic Rockettes, delivering dazzling dance numbers like the classic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.” Running annually from late November through early January, the show masterfully blends singing, dancing and humor with timeless scenes, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: December 4; NYC
New York’s biggest holiday celeb, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, is ready to dazzle the skyline when it lights up in a star-studded ceremony hosted by Kelly Clarkson. The 74-foot Norway spruce from Massachusetts will shine with over 50,000 LED lights and the iconic Swarovski star, setting the stage for performances by the Backstreet Boys, Dan + Shay, Jennifer Hudson and more. Catch the live magic on NBC’s “Christmas at Rockefeller Center,” or experience it in person through mid-January.
National Menorah Lighting Ceremony: December 25; Washington DC
Join the festive celebration of the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony at The Ellipse near the White House. Established in 1979, this annual event has become a global symbol of religious freedom, attracting thousands of attendees and millions of viewers worldwide. The ceremony features performances by the Military Bands of the Military District of Washington and often includes appearances by prominent guests such as the President, Vice President and other dignitaries.
Detroit’s Kinara Lighting Ceremony; December 26; Detroit
Detroit is set to illuminate the holiday season with the return of its towering 30-foot Kwanzaa kinara in Campus Martius Park, believed to be the largest in the world. This monumental kinara, first introduced in 2022, stands alongside the city’s massive Christmas tree and Hanukkah menorah, symbolizing Detroit’s rich cultural diversity. The lighting ceremony will feature city historian Jamon Jordan, marking the beginning of Kwanzaa’s seven-day celebration. A new candle will be lit each evening, honoring the principles of unity, self-determination and community that Kwanzaa represents.
SantaCon NYC: December 14; NYC
Prepare for SantaCon NYC 2024, the city’s wackiest, holly-jolliest (and most controversial) bar crawl. Thousands of Santas, elves and holiday enthusiasts will descend upon Manhattan to spread festive cheer while raising money for local charities. The exact starting point and route are a mystery until just days before, so stay tuned for updates on the “Hello Santa NYC” app. Attendees should rock their most outrageous holiday outfits, pace themselves and remember SantaCon’s number one rule: keep it fun and respectful for everyone.
Times Square Ball Drop: December 31; NYC
Brave souls with strong bladders can once again ring in the new year in the heart of New York City with the iconic Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration. Join millions worldwide as the dazzling Waterford Crystal ball descends atop One Times Square, marking the start of 2025. The festivities kick off at 6PM EST, featuring live performances, celebrity appearances and the traditional midnight countdown, though specific performers for this year’s event have yet to be announced.
ART INSTALLATIONS
Bargain Bodega: December 6-8; NYC
Contemporary artist and XLISTER CJ Hendry has a new pop-up art installation coming to New York. While the details such as location and hours are still under wraps, CJ has taken to her Instagram to provide followers with teaser videos of her intricate, sequined patches of popular bodega items like gum, Gatorade and bags of chips as well as the cryptic post, “New York, the more you spend, the more you save, up to 100% off.”
Luna Luna: Throughout December; NYC
Luna Luna, the world’s first art amusement park, originally opened in Hamburg in 1987, featuring attractions designed by renowned artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring and Salvador Dalí. After being forgotten in storage for over three decades, it has been resurrected and is now on display at The Shed in New York City until January 5, 2025. Visitors can experience a vibrant carousel by Haring, a Ferris wheel adorned with Basquiat’s art and a mirrored dome by Dalí, among other installations. This revival offers a unique fusion of art and carnival, inviting attendees into a fantastical world where creativity and amusement intertwine.
CONCERTS
The Eras Tour: Concludes Dec 08; Vancouver, BC
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour isn’t just a concert — it’s a cultural phenomenon. Spanning 149 shows across five continents from March 2023 to December 2024, the record-breaking tour has redefined what live entertainment can achieve, becoming the highest-grossing tour of all time. Ethan Tobman, the XLISTER and visionary behind the tour’s creative direction and production design, transformed each stage into an immersive journey through Swift’s 10 studio albums, featuring a 3.5-hour setlist of over 40 songs. Celebrated for its groundbreaking concept, flawless execution and electrifying performances, the Eras Tour is a masterclass in experiential storytelling that sets the bar sky-high.
FESTIVALS
Art Basel Miami Beach: December 6-8; Miami
Art Basel Miami Beach is back, bringing a tidal wave of creativity to the Miami Beach Convention Center with over 280 galleries from 38 countries. Under new leadership, this year’s fair introduces layout changes and shines a brighter spotlight on small and mid-sized galleries alongside the big-name heavyweights. Beyond the main event, Miami Art Week transforms the city into an art lover’s paradise, with satellite fairs, exhibitions and installations popping up everywhere. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just soaking in the vibrant scene, this week promises to dazzle your senses at every turn.
Rolling Loud Festival: December 13-15; Miami
Rolling Loud Miami is turning up the volume for its 10th anniversary at Hard Rock Stadium this December. Headliners Future, Travis Scott and Playboi Carti lead a lineup that’s as stacked as ever, with heavy hitters like Yeat, Lil Baby and Metro Boomin also bringing the heat. Hometown heroes Rick Ross and JT add a local touch, guaranteeing unforgettable moments across three electrifying days. Plus, in a move everyone can celebrate, the festival shifted from July to December to embrace Miami’s “cooler” vibes.
Wild Horses Festival: December 30: San Diego
The Wild Horses Festival returns to San Diego’s Petco Park, headlined by global superstar Post Malone. This one-of-a-kind event blends country music, rock and pop with a lineup featuring Paul Cauthen, Zach Top, Vincent Neil Emerson and Dan Spencer. Now in its fourth year, the festival has cemented itself as a year-end celebration of music and community. With stunning views of San Diego’s skyline and a vibrant energy to close out the year, Wild Horses promises an unforgettable night for music lovers of all ages.
SPORTS
Wrangler National Finals Rodeo: December 5-14; Las Vegas
The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is set to electrify the Thomas & Mack Center on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus. This premier event will showcase the top 15 contestants in each rodeo discipline, all vying for world championship titles. Beyond the thrilling competitions, attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, including the Cowboy Christmas gift show, contestant autograph sessions and the Junior World Finals. With nightly performances, entertainment and a quintessential Vegas atmosphere, the NFR offers an authentic Western experience for fans of all ages.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: December 6-8; Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit marks the thrilling conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season. The stakes are high, with Max Verstappen leading the Drivers’ Championship and McLaren vying for their first Constructors title since 1998. Beyond the races, Yas Island will buzz with events, including the Yasalam after-race concerts featuring artists like Eminem and Muse. The weekend promises a blend of high-speed action and vibrant entertainment, making it a must-attend for motorsport enthusiasts.
MLS Men’s Cup Final: December 7; Carson, CA
The MLS Men’s Cup Final is locked and loaded, with the LA Galaxy taking on the New York Red Bulls at the iconic Dignity Health Sports Park. This showdown pits the Galaxy, chasing their record sixth title against the Red Bulls, hungry for their first-ever championship win. Drama? You bet Galaxy star Riqui Puig played the conference final with a torn ACL and delivered the clutch assist, but now the team faces the ultimate test without him. It’s high stakes, big energy and all eyes on the pitch for one unforgettable night of soccer glory.
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