We’re approaching subfreezing temperatures, and you might have noticed flurries this morning, which means December is here in earnest.
On Friday, brave the cold for tree lightings in Sunset Park and Carroll Park, featuring music and family-appropriate fun. If you’re trying to stay indoors, you can immerse yourself in the art installation “Mercedes, Part 1,” an interactive exploration of Dominican heritage at BAM, or catch the over-the-top Xmas Spectacular Show at House of Yes, blending circus and holiday mayhem.
Saturday brings the Wallabout Wonderland Holiday Market and the Red Hook Holiday Market, where you can shop for local crafts and unique gifts. On Sunday, lace up for the It’s a Wonderful 5K in Prospect Park on Sunday morning. Then head to Warsaw for Regina Spektor’s live performance of her 2002 album Songs, newly remastered and officially released for the first time.
Brooklyn has something for everyone this weekend.
Friday, December 6
Brooklyn Tree Lightings
Celebrate the season with two tree lightings on Friday. Head to Sunset Park from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 60th Street and 5th Avenue for a family-friendly event featuring free goodie bags for the first 200 kids, a historic trolley, clown performances, music, and an appearance from Santa. Then make your way to Carroll Park from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for music, refreshments, and the tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Both events are free.
“Mercedes, Part 1”
Runs through Sunday
“Mercedes, Part I” is a powerful love letter to Bushwick’s Dominican heritage by artist Modesto “Flako” Jimenez (Taxilandia) installed at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. This immersive experience blends documentary, interactive installations, and a recreated home to explore immigration, mental health, and community resilience. Part of a larger project, “Mercedes, Part 1” is a visually stunning journey that amplifies the importance of multigenerational care and mental healthcare outreach. Recommended for ages 13+. 321 Ashland Place. Tickets are $25.
Xmas Spectacular Show
Dec. 6 to 22
The House of Yes presents its 12th Annual Xmas Spectacular Show from December 6 to 22. This wild, over-the-top holiday show blends circus, variety theater, and irreverent humor with everything you love (and love to hate) about the season—sparkling lights, Mariah Carey, candy canes, awkward family gatherings, and the usual chaos. It’s the most wonderfully weird show of the year with elves, Santa, and outrageous performances. 2 Wyckoff Avenue. Tickets begin at $60.
Winter Village at Westlight
Friday through March 31
Winter Village at Westlight transforms the 23rd-floor rooftop bar at the William Vale into a wonderland on Friday. Enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping seasonal cocktails and alpine-style fondue and cozying up in private, festive dining chalets. For extra holiday fun, head to the après-ski-themed Sky Lodge or bounce into the season at the whimsical Bounce Lounge—a rooftop bounce house for grown-ups. 111 N. 12th St.
Japan Village Holiday Craft Fair
11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday to Sunday
Discover a festive holiday market at Japan Village, featuring unique collaborations with over 10 Japanese artists. Shop a curated selection of jewelry, apparel, ceramics, handbags, and more perfect Christmas gifts. 934 3rd Avenue, the Loft (second floor of Japan Village). Free.
Grinchy’s Holiday Pop Up at Roberta’s Tiki Bar
5 p.m. and various dates through December
Grinchy’s Pop Up at Roberta’s Bushwick is back to transform the tiki bar into a festive Whoville wonderland with over-the-top Christmas décor. The holiday menu features playful drinks like Grinchy’s Old Fashioned, Double Dog Dare hot-buttered rum, and Cousin Eddy frozen eggnog. 263 Moore Street.
Usher at Barclays Center
8 p.m.
Don’t miss Usher’s Past Present Future Tour at Barclays Center on Friday night. The eight-time Grammy winner is following his 2024 Super Bowl halftime performance and sold-out My Way Las Vegas residency with this run. 620 Atlantic Avenue. Prices vary.
The Hold Steady’s Massive Nights 2024
9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
It’s time for the Hold Steady’s annual Massive Nights at Brooklyn Bowl. Since its debut in 2016, Massive Nights has become a tradition of the early holiday season. The band promises a night filled with “songs, drinks, friends, sing-alongs, and everything else that makes these nights Massive.” 61 Wythe Avenue. Tickets start at $68.10.
TV Girl + George Clanton Record Release Party
11 p.m.
International music stars TV Girl and George Clanton are throwing an exclusive DJ gig at Baby’s All Right on Friday to promote their collab album, Rave, and you might just score an invite. RSVP at the link above for a chance to attend in person. RSVP doesn’t guarantee entry, but if you’re selected, expect a night of exclusive tunes, merch, and vibes. 146 Broadway.
Saturday, December 7
Charlie Brown Holiday Scholarship Concert with Nate Shaw Trio
Various showtimes on Saturday and Sunday
Enjoy a magical evening at Magic Hour as the Nate Shaw Trio brings to life the timeless Vince Guaraldi classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas. The performances raise funds for the Brooklyn Music Factory Scholarship Fund. Tickets are $17.85.
FAD Holiday Market
11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 7 to 8, 14 to 15, and 21 to 22
The FAD Holiday Market returns this December with a pop-up celebration of local Brooklyn talent, featuring artists, designers, and makers. Taking place over three weekends, the market offers a vibrant space for community engagement and cultural discovery. With locations in Dumbo, Boerum Hill, and Cobble Hill, it’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and support Brooklyn creatives. See their website for complete information about each market.
Wallabout Wonderland Holiday Market
Saturday and Sunday at noon
The 7th Annual Wallabout Wonderland Holiday Market is at the Brooklyn Navy Yard on Saturday and Sunday. The market brings together over 200 local businesses, vendors, and community partners offering unique handmade gifts. From home goods and clothing to art, accessories, and wellness products, there’s something for everyone. Join the festivities at Building 293, Brooklyn Navy Yard (Assembly Road and Gee Avenue). Enter through the Cymer Street Gate. Free.
Trans Art Holiday Bazaar
1 to 7 p.m.
Visit the Trans Art Holiday Bazaar on Saturday at the Brooklyn Community Pride Center. This event celebrates and supports trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming artists, offering a unique selection of art and goods for the holiday season. With a $5 suggested donation and masks required indoors, it’s a great way to shop, support, and connect with the community. 1561 Bedford Avenue.
Paw-some Holiday Brunch
1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 7–8, 21–22, 28–29
This December, The Penny celebrates pets and art with its Paw-some Holiday Brunch series at elNico every weekend. Enjoy a festive brunch while your furry friends pose for free portraits by photographer Will Ferman or sketches by artist Jordan Sondler. Enjoy delicious dishes like pancakes with homemade cajeta and chilaquiles, all while capturing special memories with your pet. 288 N 8th Street.
Suki Waterhouse with Special Guest Bully
7 p.m.
Suki Waterhouse will light up the Brooklyn Paramount when she brings her Sparklemuffin Tour to town on Saturday night. Opening for Waterhouse is Bully, whose raw indie rock and grunge energy contrasts with Waterhouse’s dreamy, indie-pop sound. 385 Flatbush Ave. Extension. Tickets begin at $93.60.
Twink Army
10 p.m.
Unleash your inner Timothée Chalamet at the Twink Army party at 9 Bob Note on Saturday night. Whether you’re a playful twink, artsy twink, confident twunk, or just love to have a good time, this is the party for you. Celebrate in style with music by Stefan Daniel, Blue Rose Royalty, and Luis Fernando, and enjoy a night full of fun hosted by Blake McAllister, Adubsa, Honky Tonk Hooker, Ty Dalrymple, Mike Erwin, Reese Havoc, and Lana Ja’Rae. This event is open to everyone—21+ only, valid ID required—no matter your vibe. Just come ready to dance and have a blast! 270 Meserole Street. Tickets start at $19.48.
Sunday, December 8
It’s A Wonderful 5K Run/Walk
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join the holiday fun at the It’s a Wonderful 5K on Sunday morning. Run through the scenic paths of Prospect Park and enjoy a festive race experience. And take home some merry swag and delicious treats from All Round Foods and Waterloo Sparkling Water. Parkside Avenue and Parade Place. Registration is $38.98.
Fort Greene Park tree lighting
4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The beloved holiday tradition at Fort Greene Park returns this Sunday. Celebrate the season with free hot cocoa, live festive music, letter writing to Santa, and the highlight—the tree lighting. The festivities kick off at the northwest corner of the park, near Myrtle Avenue and St. Edward’s Street. Rain date: Sunday, Dec. 8.
Regina Spektor at Warsaw
7 p.m., Sunday through Tuesday
Regina Spektor will perform her 2002 album, Songs, in full at Brooklyn’s Warsaw from Sunday to Tuesday, celebrating its first official release after being remastered by the legendary Bob Ludwig. Originally self-released and sold at shows, now, 22 years later, this lost gem is getting its due, and fans can finally experience it live, in an intimate performance. 261 Driggs Avenue. Tickets begin at $63.75.
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