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Winter Rhythms 2026 festival dates announced for December in New York City
Winter Rhythms 2026 has been scheduled for 2 – 19 December 2026 at Urban Stages Theater in Midtown Manhattan. The twelve‑day music festival will showcase jazz, cabaret, Broadway and holiday performances, targeting visitors and locals seeking a cultural holiday experience in New York City.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Winter Rhythms 2026 dates and programme are now confirmed
- Timing
- The festival runs from 2 to 19 December 2026
- Who is affected
- Visitors and residents planning cultural activities in New York City during December
The details
- Takes effect
- 2 to 19 December 2026
Event Overview
Winter Rhythms returns to New York City for its twelfth edition, offering a warm indoor alternative to the typical outdoor holiday crowds. The festival will be held at Urban Stages Theater on West 30th Street, between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, with doors opening 30 minutes before each show.
Programme Highlights
The twelve‑day schedule mixes tributes to legendary singers, songwriters and Broadway classics. Highlights include a jazz street‑music showcase on opening night, tributes to Julie London, Lena Horne, Jerome Kern and Michael Colby, and a multicultural Holiday Survival Kit series featuring songs linked to Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Lunar New Year.
- Opening night (2 Dec) – champagne cocktail, portrait unveiling for Charles Busch, jazz set by Jon Weber
- Broadway tribute (5 Dec) – Circle in the Square Theatre School graduating class
- Holiday Survival Kit (16‑19 Dec) – performances in French, Ladino, German, Sanskrit and Old English
Ticketing and Benefits
A single ticket costs $40 and grants entry to one show. Visitors can purchase a two‑show ticket for $70, allowing two performances on the same evening. All ticket sales support Urban Stages’ Outreach Program, which provides free arts events and workshops to libraries and community groups across the five boroughs.
- Single‑show ticket: $40
- Two‑show ticket (same night): $70
- Proceeds fund free arts programmes for children, families and seniors
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing December itineraries can add a night at Urban Stages without changing hotel bookings
- The festival’s indoor venues mean no weather‑related cancellations to consider
- Visitors should allow extra time for a 6 pm opening on 2 December when the cocktail party begins
Cost and documents
- Ticket prices are $40 for a single show and $70 for a double‑show evening
- No additional visas or permits are required beyond standard US entry requirements
What you need to do
- Purchase tickets before the event dates to guarantee seats, especially for popular tribute nights
- Check the Urban Stages website for any last‑minute schedule changes
- If staying in a hotel, confirm that the venue is within walking distance or arrange a short taxi ride
Who this affects
-
International tourists visiting NYC in December
The festival provides a cultural alternative to typical holiday sightseeing
What to do Book tickets in advance and plan evening travel to Midtown Manhattan
-
Local residents seeking live music
Winter Rhythms offers a series of indoor performances across diverse genres
What to do Purchase tickets at the venue or online and attend shows that fit personal schedules
-
Families looking for holiday activities
The Holiday Survival Kit series includes multicultural music suitable for all ages
What to do Choose family‑friendly shows and verify age‑appropriate content before attending
Frequently asked questions
When does Winter Rhythms 2026 take place?
Winter Rhythms 2026 runs from 2 December to 19 December 2026, with performances each night at Urban Stages Theater in Midtown Manhattan.
Where is the festival held?
All shows are staged at Urban Stages Theater on West 30th Street, between Seventh and Eighth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan.
How much do tickets cost?
A single‑show ticket costs $40, while a two‑show ticket for the same evening is priced at $70.
What types of music will be featured?
The programme includes jazz, cabaret, Broadway tributes, holiday music and multicultural performances covering songs from Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Lunar New Year.
Do ticket sales support any cause?
Yes, all ticket revenue helps fund Urban Stages’ Outreach Program, which delivers free arts events and workshops to libraries and community groups throughout New York City.
