My sister and I are planning a trip out there this December and we would like to be around for the lighting of the Rockefeller tree and do things like ice skate or see free Christmas related things. Can anyone let me know when the best time would be to see those things or tell me about the different events. It would much appreciated because I have never been there 
the tree is it the 1st week of December. The parade is on Thanksgiving Day. Look up newyorkel
Well, I believe NYC gets their decorating done in time for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. So if you go in December you will definitely be able to see all that stuff. You’ll also be able to go skating then too. So I guess like the first person that answered said, the first week would be your best bet since that is when the tree lighting usually is. Last year it was lit on the 3rd of December.
Having lived in the New York aria for sometime now,it kicks off with Macey’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.And after that it is on ! The store windows are all dressed for Christmas and you can take horse carriage rides in Central Park.Also there are Santa’s ringing bell on all the street corners !
it is truely a sight not to be missed