Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes: Recipes and Crafts to Bring Home the Magic

by Radio City Entertainment

Make the holidays memorable when you bring home the magic of the  Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes !

Combining the glamour, nostalgia, and joy of the legendary production with at-home inspiration, this giftable volume invites you to create your own holiday magic at home. From crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for seasonal gatherings to elegant DIY crafts that capture the magic of the show, this book offers a fresh take on holiday traditions for modern audiences. Rooted in the wonder of New York City at Christmas, this keepsake captures the sparkle, spectacle, and magic of the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, which has been a cherished tradition for generations.

Created with home entertainers, families, and fans in mind, Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Recipes and Crafts to Bring Home the Magic 

Festive Recipes: From “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers”–inspired cake pops to Big Apple galettes and even reindeer-themed chocolate-cranberry delights, you'll have all you need to treat your guests at any holiday gatheringShowstopping Sips: From a hot chocolate duo to the Rockettini™ and Mrs. Claus Mule, these cocktails and mocktails are guaranteed to create merriment at any gatheringSeasonal Crafts: Featuring gift wrapping ideas, DIY snow globe ornaments, and deck-the-door ideas, this book will help you create an atmosphere of whimsy and cheerBehind-the-Scenes Stories & History: Go backstage with the Rockettes through beautiful photography and learn about the history and secrets behind the legendary holiday production, which opened in 1933 and has been seen by more than 73 million people from around the world 

This guide brings you closer to the tradition and wonder of one of New York City's most iconic holiday experiences. The best Making memories with your loved ones—after all, that's truly what makes Christmas spectacular.

Turn up the holiday music, pull out your craft supplies, and get ready to bring home the magic of this unforgettable New York City celebration! (And if you're feeling spirited, don't hold back on practicing those Rockettes-style kicks!)

Genres: Cookbooks, Christmas, Nonfiction, Crafts

208 pages, Hardcover

Published September 22, 2026

Reviews

[Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somewhere between the Rockettini recipe, a DIY snow globe, and learning that an entire army of dancers somehow manages to kick in perfect unison without taking each other out at the knees, I realized this book had completely hijacked my Christmas spirit. It didn't gently ease me into the holidays. It grabbed me by my peppermint mocha, threw fake snow in my face, and yelled, "WE'RE DECORATING NOW." Honestly? Fair enough.

I went in expecting a cute holiday cookbook with a few festive crafts tossed in for good measure. Instead, I got recipes, history, backstage gossip, gorgeous photography, vintage costume sketches, and enough Christmas serotonin to power Rockefeller Center. Every few pages I was stopping to read another little behind-the-scenes fact and immediately texting someone, "Did you KNOW this?" like I'd just uncovered government secrets instead of Rockette trivia.

The recipes are exactly the kind that make you briefly believe you're the sort of person who hosts magical Christmas parties where everything is homemade and nobody forgets to buy batteries. I bookmarked the Wooden Soldier cake pops, the Rockettini, the hot cocoa flights, and approximately fourteen other things that Future Me is absolutely convinced she'll make. Current Me knows better, but December Me is wildly optimistic.

The crafts were another pleasant surprise. Usually craft books include at least one project that quietly requires the engineering skills of NASA and the patience of a saint. Not here. The ornaments, wrapping ideas, and holiday décor all felt fun instead of intimidating. They made me think, "Yeah...I could absolutely pull this off," which is exactly the kind of confidence Christmas should inspire right before you hot-glue your fingers together.

But honestly? The history ended up being my favorite part. I didn't expect to get so invested in everything that goes into the Christmas Spectacular. Learning about the rehearsals, the costumes, the backstage traditions, the insane precision behind every single performance...it made me appreciate the Rockettes in a whole new way. These women make synchronized dancing look effortless, when in reality it's probably held together by talent, muscle memory, and pure holiday sorcery.

And can we talk about the photography? This book is gorgeous. Not "oh, that's nice" gorgeous. "I accidentally spent twenty minutes staring at one page because I forgot I was supposed to be reading" gorgeous. It feels like walking through New York at Christmastime without having to fight twelve thousand tourists for a decent view of the tree. Every page practically smells like peppermint, roasted chestnuts, and expensive department store perfume.

What really snuck up on me, though, was how warm this whole thing feels. Under all the glitter, cocktails, recipes, and impossibly straight kick lines is a reminder that the holidays aren't about pulling off some Pinterest-perfect masterpiece. They're about making memories, laughing when something inevitably goes sideways, gathering the people you love, and creating traditions that somehow become the stories everyone tells twenty years later. That hit me right in the holiday feelings, and then the book immediately distracted me with another gorgeous dessert recipe before I could get too emotional about it.

This was an easy 4.5 stars. It's festive without becoming saccharine, nostalgic without feeling dusty, and packed with enough recipes, crafts, history, and behind-the-scenes magic that it genuinely feels like bringing a little piece of the Christmas Spectacular home. Fair warning, though. If you finish this book without immediately wanting to bake cookies, decorate your house, and irrationally convince yourself you could totally survive one Rockette rehearsal...you're stronger than I am.

Merry Mayhem Prize: For Convincing Me That Holiday Magic Is Apparently Just Equal Parts Glitter, Butter, Precision Choreography, and Delusional Confidence

Huge thanks to Harper Celebrate and NetGalley for the ARC. I came here expecting recipes and left fully prepared to host Christmas, learn the kick line, and accidentally spend way too much money trying to recreate Rockefeller Center in my living room. I regret absolutely nothing.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: A Dazzling Dose of Christmas Cheer

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I absolutely adored Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes: Recipes and Crafts to Bring Home the Magic by Radio City Entertainment. From its gorgeous, glittering cover onward, this is the kind of festive book that instantly puts me in the Christmas spirit. I have always had a soft spot for themed cookbooks, and adding the magic of the Rockettes, New York City, and the holiday season makes this one especially irresistible.

I expected a charming Christmas cookbook with a handful of seasonal craft projects sprinkled throughout. What I received was so much more: a beautifully designed celebration of the Christmas Spectacular, complete with recipes, creative activities, historical details, backstage insights, vintage costume sketches, and stunning photography. Every time I turned a few pages, I found myself pausing to read another fascinating fact about the production, its traditions, or the performers who have helped make it such an iconic part of Christmas in New York.

The recipes are festive and approachable, with plenty of ideas for holiday entertaining. Highlights include treats inspired by the show’s beloved Wooden Soldiers, charming Big Apple galettes, and chocolate-cranberry goodies with a reindeer-inspired twist. There are also delightful drinks for all ages, including variations on hot chocolate, the Rockettini™, and the Mrs. Claus Mule. While these recipes may not be revolutionary, they are fun, appealing, and perfectly suited to creating a cheerful spread for family and friends—which is exactly what I want from a holiday cookbook.

The crafts add even more seasonal charm. Readers will find inspiration for beautifully wrapped presents, handmade snow-globe ornaments, festive door decorations, and other ways to make the home feel a little more magical. The projects capture the playful whimsy of the Rockettes while remaining connected to familiar Christmas traditions.

What truly makes this book special, though, is its atmosphere. It brings the sparkle and nostalgia of Radio City Music Hall into the home, while offering a glimpse into the long history of the Christmas Spectacular, which first premiered in 1933 and has since delighted millions of visitors from around the world. The photographs, illustrations, costume designs, and behind-the-scenes material give the book the feeling of a keepsake rather than an ordinary recipe collection.

Visually, it is an absolute treat—bright, colorful, polished, and overflowing with holiday spirit. I could easily imagine leaving it on my coffee table throughout December, both as decoration and as a source of inspiration. It would make a wonderful gift for Rockettes fans, Christmas lovers, home entertainers, families, or anyone who enjoys a beautiful seasonal book.

Reading it made me want to turn up the Christmas music, gather my craft supplies, bake something sweet, and perhaps attempt a very un-Rockette-like high kick in the living room. This is a joyful, nostalgic, and wonderfully festive book that captures the true heart of the season: making memories together. Five sparkling stars! 🎄✨

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[OutlawPoet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, this is just full of nostalgia and Christmas magic!

Even if you didn't grow up in NYC (I didn't), the Rockettes are everything Christmas and this book is so festive!

It's full of history, glorious photos, fun crafts and lovely recipes guaranteed to make your holiday season spectacular.

The recipes are easy to follow and, along with the crafts, are a perfect way to spend time with your littles.

Loved this!

[Hannah Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for an ARC of this book!

I absolutely loved this book! Every single page had beautifully intricate artwork, stage photos of the Rockettes from the Christmas spectacular, and really fun recipes and crafts for the whole family! If you’re a fan of the Rockettes you will devour this book! From the dancers starting their rehearsals in early fall until the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade through dozens of performances at Christmastime, this book lays out how special of a tradition experiencing the Rockettes at Christmastime can be! Radio City Music Hall is iconic in its layout, seating and stage abilities. The staff, dressers, stage hands, lighting experts, costuming as well as the memorization of the dancers is so impressive. I loved how this book went into the background of each number, what made it special, what the audience doesn’t get to see, and how this has become such a special performance every Christmas. You can really see the devotion these dancers put into the six weeks of performances with their intense rehearsal schedule and a rotating performance cast as well as swing roles where they learn multiple parts. Their precision and commitment is very clear to the audience, and I can’t wait to see the Rockettes perform again this holiday season! I think my favorite part of this book was not only how much we learned about what goes into being a Rockette, but the fun themed projects, snacks, and dishes you can make as we enter into the most wonderful time of the year! I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing on my bucket list is going to New York City at Christmastime. After reading Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, I’m more eager than ever to go! This delightful book offers an in-depth look behind-the-curtain of the annual (since 1933) holiday production starring the iconic Rockettes who, as my mother (who had seen the show when she was young) once noted, “when they do their famous kicklines, they dance as if they are one person.” I think about that every year when I see them on TV at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The detail that goes into creating each year’s show is as dazzling as the end result. I loved reading about the history of the Rockettes and their preparation for the show, which features both amazing artistry and athleticism, hours of rehearsal, strength training, and coordinating with a production team of hundreds to ensure each performance goes off with military precision and without a hitch.
Throughout the book, readers are treated to more inside stories and insights of each production number, including the iconic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” and of course, those famous kicklines (eight per performance totaling 200 kicks per show). We’re also treated to archival information, including a visual history of the costumes, many of which were designed by Tony Award winners and nominees, and famous names including Bob Mackie and Vincente Minnelli.

The book is well-organized, with all the chapters inspired by each of the production numbers. There are recipes, followed by cocktails (with suggestions for making them mocktails), and finishing with craft/decorating/gift ideas with detailed instructions. The photography, both of the Rockettes and their costumes, and the food, drinks, and crafts, are beautiful. I can’t wait to get (and give) this beautiful book. Some recipes are so good that I’m going to make them long before the holidays! Thanks, too, to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for the eARC. My review is my unbiased opinion.

[Faithe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Spectacular staring the Radio City Rockettes by Radio City Entertainment is the perfect gift for an Christmas lover on your list, especially if they are fans of the Rockettes.

The book begins with Christmas at Radio City Music Hall, and then takes a look at the iconic Rockettes costumes through the years. Next it has you kick off your christmas season with some recipes and crafts based on:
-general christmas
- sleigh rides
- the 12 days of christmas
- parade of wooden soldiers
- New York at Christmas
- Here comes Santa Claus
- Rag dolls
- dance of the Frost Fairies
- Christmas lights
- and a Happy New Year

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

I loved all the pictures in the book, they really help capture the magic that is the Radio City Rockettes. I enjoyed seeing how the Rockettes costumes have changed throughout the year and just how much work goes into each show.

After you dive into the magic that is the Rockettes, the book gives you recipies and crafts that you can do to help bring some of that magic into your own home. I really liked how the pictures didnt stop with the Rockettes and continued with the recipes and crafts. It really helps you decide what to make next. I also enjoyed how if a recipie or craft was based on something from the show, it then showed a photo of the Rockette inspiration.

This book hits shelves on Sept 22 2026

[C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance reader copy.

The Official Christmas Cookbook of the Radio City Rockettes is a warm, festive collection that blends approachable holiday recipes with stories and traditions from the Rockettes.

While it isn’t trying to reinvent the holiday cookbook, it succeeds as a charming seasonal companion that would be fun to revisit each Christmas. The photography is inviting, the recipes are accessible, and the additional historical and behind-the-scenes touches make it more than just a collection of recipes.

The behind-the-scenes look especially appealed to the dancer in me who, as a child, was always too short to dream of becoming a Rockette. I also found the crafts approachable enough to enjoy with my child without losing my mind or my patience, while giving him the one-on-one time he loves. As I read through the recipes, I found myself bookmarking several that would be perfect for holiday mornings, whether before family celebrations or a full day of Christmas shopping.

I’d happily recommend this book to fans of the Rockettes who want behind-the-scenes glimpses, anyone looking for approachable holiday entertaining ideas, families searching for Christmas traditions to enjoy together, or readers simply looking for festive inspiration.

[Melanie Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes is part cookbook, part craft book, and part tribute to one of New York City’s best-known holiday traditions. The recipes, decorating projects, and entertaining ideas are all inspired by the stage production, with plenty of photographs and references to familiar elements from the show.

I liked that the book offers activities for different ages and skill levels rather than assuming every reader wants to take on an elaborate holiday project. Some ideas are simple enough to do with children, while others would work well for a Christmas party or a quiet afternoon of baking and decorating. The visual presentation is a large part of the appeal, especially for longtime Rockettes fans.

A few of the recipes and crafts feel more decorative than practical, but that fits the spirit of the book. This would make a fun holiday gift or coffee-table book for someone who loves the Christmas Spectacular, New York at Christmastime, or adding a little theatrical flair to family traditions.

My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of the Radio City Rockettes, this is a book for you. It is so beautiful so well thought out, they have a short history of the Radio City Rockettes, and also a brief overview of what it means to put on a show. The main star of the show is that each chapter aligns to one of the songs that they perform during the spectacular during the holiday season, included are fun stories about each performance. And the behind the scenes info and then fun recipes and crafts that you can do. The photography in the book is so good, the photos of the Rockettes, the food/craft photos are also appealing- i can't wait to see a copy in person rather than just on my Kindle, this book definitely calls to be enjoyed in color and I can't wait to buy one for the holiday season- if you are a fan of New York City at Christmas time, a fan of the Rockettes, or both, this book is definitely something you need to pick up. If you have a loved one in your in need of a gift that's a fan of the Rockettes or New York City at christmas. This definitely needs to be on your gift giving list

Thank you Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

[KC · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just such a delightful read. As a November 1st Christmas tree girl, the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade and watching the Rockettes perform is a highlight of my year. I loved how intricately all history and dances were written about in this book. It was so interesting to get to read more about the Rockettes organization and history. I thought the photography was beautiful and definitely helped visualize their show as someone who has not had the pleasure of seeing it live. The crafts look adorable and I can’t wait to try some as we get closer to the holidays season. The recipes also look great, I lived they were festival but not overly complex so great for everyone. This was so fun to read and really got me into the holiday spirit.

Thank you to NetGalley and Radio City Entertainment for the ARC of this book!

[Edie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rare is the adult in the U.S. that hasn’t heard of The New York City Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall! Perhaps you have been fortunate enough to attend a performance or you watched them in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, saw them in an USO Show or an appearance elsewhere; you know the magical presence they create.

While there are tempting holiday recipes & clever crafts in each chapter, the history of the dance troupe plus the theatre itself & the little-known facts about this beloved American tradition captures your attention.

I’ll predict this book is a sought-after gift this holiday season & for years to come. If you have a person who has everything, this could be a treasured gift. So heel, toe, kick & step to this festive seasonal treat!

I thank NetGalley, the author & the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair & honest review.

[Kim Schade · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this ARC from NetGalley and I was so thrilled to read this alongside watching the DVD of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular I found at the thrift store! I have always enjoyed the Rockettes and it was so fun to read some of the history behind the show and their costumes. I could honestly watch New York at Christmas over and over again. I can't wait to add some of the food and crafts to my winter bucket list, especially from NY at Christmas and Dance of the Frost Fairies sections. I loved that they included a mocktail version of each of their holiday drinks so everyone could partake in the festiveness! This is just a really fun book to keep the magic of Christmas and the Rockettes alive at home. Wouldn't it be amazing if someone put together a neighborhood get together with each house taking on one of the themes? Magical!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Set of Recipes and Well-Written History
What a celebration of the Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall! The recipes and crafts were festive with beautiful accompanying photography. My favorite part of this book was the rich history of the Rockettes, the discipline and hard work it takes to prepare for each performance, the intricate detail that goes into each set of costumes over the years. I was just as enthralled as I was years ago when I saw them perform. Beautifully written. Another favorite: there is a special holiday cocktail for each section, but as a non-drinker, I really appreciated that every recipe included an equivalent mocktail.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[LittleRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was a girl my grandmother would take me to New York every Christmas season to see the Rockets at Radio City. It was an annual tradition and it’s been ages since I’ve been.

I live thousands of miles away thee , but this book brought it all back and revived those memories. I really enjoyed the history and pictures that gave me an even greater view into the production. A great book all around!

I’m going to be using some of these recipes through the holidays to bring some of the memories back and make them part of our own traditions. I’m also going to buy a copy for each of my cousins for. Christmas. It will be like we’re all back there together again. A perfect read and a perfect gift!

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never had the privilege of attending a Radio City Rockettes concert, but I've streamed several of them. These productions are amazing; it's obvious the dancers love what they do. This book mixes the stories of the dancers with recipes and crafts sure to keep your hands busy while you try a few kicks and twirls. It's an excellent book to be shared and shared again. I have never met anyone who the Rockettes don't move, and this book brings them closer to our living rooms. We've already read this book several times, and each time we've found something else to love about the Rockettes Christmas.

[Rachel (storybookcorner) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for any recipe book and add in Christmas crafts I'm all in. This was a cute and quick read. It was fun to learn all about the grueling process of becoming a Rockette. I have a new found respect for these dancers and I will for sure be tuning in better to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade from now on. I can't wait to visit New York at Christmas time some day and hope to see them in person. Also, I can't wait to make many of these recipes and crafts this holiday season with my kids. The crafts will be super fun to celebrate the season.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Celebrate for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, by Radio City Entertainment, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This a great book for fans of the Radio City Rockettes, and Christmas, it has recipes, and crafts, and wonderful photographs. I really enjoyed this book, so many great pictures, recipes, and crafts, to do with the whole family!

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Celebrate for my gifted copy. All opinions are my own!

This is a perfect book to add to your Christmas collection. Christmas has long since been equated with the Rockettes and this book perfectly brings that spirit to life! I loved reading the themed recipes that go with each of the Rockettes' numbers. Reading this in the middle of summer made me long for the Christmas season even more! I highly recommend it!!

[Alex Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhh this is the perfect recipe book for not just Christmas time, but literally ANY TIME! 🥰🥹🎄

There’s so many that I saved & can’t wait to try, but especially the crafts that I can do with my girls.
It’s going to be so much fun.

thank you NetGalley, the publisher, the author & of course the famous Radio City Rockettes for inspiring this wonderful recipe/craft book. All opinions are my own! 👯‍♀️🩰🎄🎅🏼🤶🏻

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This magical, fun book about the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes will put you in the holiday spirit! Several stories about how the dance group originated and how it came to what it is today. Accounts on the different dances and makings of the various costumes. Also several holiday/ Rockettes themed recipes and craft projects.

[Kristen Barenthaler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! My mom and I go to New York every Christmas to see the Rockettes, so this book will definitely become a part of our Christmas traditions too. I can’t wait to make all these recipes and crafts with her this year.

[KB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful photography! This book has fun recipes and crafts to help round out any Christmas season. It was so fun to see something that brings back so many nostalgic Christmas memories. Fun for any age!

Thank you NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio | Tiny Torch Books.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely book and I enjoyed reading about the history of the radio city rockettes. The recipes sounded delicious and would more than likely pick up this book when it is available. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me to read and share my thoughts.

[Ymbear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this cookbook! There is history, lots of photos and some really great seasonal recipes! I look forward to baking some of these in the holiday season this year!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Netgalley ARC- Cute. I'm not big on Christmas but this was kind of infectious with its holiday cheer. Not a lot on the Rockettes, but the pictures are pretty. Felt more like a magazine insert than a book but overall decent.

[Paula Lyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very pretty book starring the Rockettes. The history is interesting. The recipes look great. The crafts are a little simplistic, which will make them easy to do with kids. I can't wait for this book to hit bookstores so I can buy my own copy.

I received an eARC through NetGalley.

[Cheryl Hollon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a warm and delightful portrayal of the Spirit of Christmas through the lens of the Radio City Rockettes. I've pre-ordered copies to be give as Christmas presents.