If you love Broadway and the holidays, there’s no better place to celebrate than Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Times Square. This iconic retro-themed diner is home to the world-famous singing waitstaff, the Stardusters. This season, the diner is rolling out an incredible lineup of events from October through New Year’s. Each one brings Broadway magic to life right in the heart of New York City.
Whether you’re a local family looking for a festive night out or visiting NYC for the holidays, you’ll find something special here. Ellen’s has it all — from The Rocky Horror Show: Live! to the fan-favorite MAMMA MIA! Brunch, Wicked Wednesday, and a sparkling New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square.
(If you’re planning more fun in the city, check out my guide to Family-Friendly NYC Adventures for Rainy Days.)
🎃 The Rocky Horror Show: Live! at Ellen’s Stardust Diner
📅 October 31 & November 1 | Ages 18+ | $51 Admission
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Ellen’s Stardust Diner will transform into an immersive performance space. The event will run for two unforgettable nights. The Stardusters will go all-out with a full live production of this cult classic. Expect bold costumes, fun audience participation, and all the rock-and-roll energy that made Rocky Horror a legend.
Costumes are highly encouraged for guests. Prop packets will be available at the door, and the diner opens at 11 p.m. Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours soon!
💚 Wicked Wednesday Returns November 19
Ellen’s is going green 💚 and pink 💗 for the fan-favorite Wicked Wednesday! On November 19, celebrate the magic of Wicked: For Good with themed performances of your favorite songs like “Defying Gravity” and “The Wizard and I.”
The Stardusters—along with Glinda and Elphaba themselves—will bring Oz to Times Square. Plus, sip one of the limited-edition milkshakes available through November 23: the Elphaba Green Shake or Glinda Pink Shake ($18 each).
(If your kids love theatrical fun, they’ll adore our Bluey x CAMP Parent Guide + Discount Tips.)
🦃 Celebrate the Holidays at Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to midnight, the diner will serve special holiday menus for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Each menu features family-friendly diner classics with a festive twist.
There’s nothing quite like enjoying live music and comfort food surrounded by sparkling holiday lights. It’s an only-in-NYC experience that truly makes the season bright.
🗝️ Keywords: holiday dining Times Square, Christmas dinner NYC 2025, family-friendly holiday restaurants New York
(For more local fall fun, check out Adventureland’s Daylight Savings Program.)
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🥂 Ring in 2026 at Ellen’s New Year’s Eve Party
🎉 December 31 | $295 per person (plus fees & gratuity)
There’s nothing quite like celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square — and Ellen’s Stardust Diner brings the music and sparkle to life. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal, party favors, and a midnight champagne toast, with access to a full cash bar and live performances all night.
You can even watch the iconic ball drop from inside the diner’s big screens or right outside in Times Square — without missing a beat of Broadway fun.
💃 MAMMA MIA! Brunch Series 2025 – 2026
🗓 November 2025 – February 2026
If you missed the sold-out summer run, the MAMMA MIA! Brunch is back by popular demand 🎶! Dance, dine, and sing along to your favorite ABBA hits with themed performances, delicious brunch dishes, and endless good vibes.
Most shows are on Sundays, and tickets sell out fast, so grab your friends and get ready to unleash your inner Dancing Queen!
🎁 Don’t Miss Ellen’s Holiday Merch & Keepsakes
For those who love taking a piece of Stardust magic home, Ellen’s now has exclusive holiday merchandise, including their popular new tote bag and limited-edition holiday ornaments — perfect gifts for Broadway fans!
(After your NYC holiday adventure, plan a cozy getaway like our Cartoon Network Hotel Road Trip Destination!)
📍 Plan Your Visit
Location: 1650 Broadway (at 51st Street), New York City
Hours: 7 a.m. – Midnight, 7 days a week
Website: ellensstardustdiner.com
Social: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | X (formerly Twitter)
If you’re planning your next family outing or weekend trip to Times Square, put Ellen’s Stardust Diner at the top of your list. Between the singing waitstaff, themed events, and one-of-a-kind Broadway atmosphere, it’s the ultimate New York City experience — especially during the holidays.
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