Thanksgiving is a holiday best known for stuffing our faces, while surrounded by friends and family. However, if you’re stuck in New York City this year, don’t worry! We’ve put together a list of the top events happening in New York this Turkey Day.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
PC: www.maconkidsmagazine.com
Perhaps the most famous Thanksgiving event, the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade features a collection of today’s most popular performers, marching bands, balloons, and more. Expected this year are performers such as Andy Grammer, The Goo Goo Dolls, and Smokey Robinson.
The parade starts at 9am on West 77th Street and Central Park West, moving south. If you’re planning on going, we suggest you arrive early! The streets are always packed with spectators, so plan accordingly.
For more information on performers and the balloons showing this year, check out the event’s official website.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation
PC: www.nydailynews.com
If you still want to take some part in viewing the parade but crowds stress you out, this event is just for you. The night before Thanksgiving head over to West 79th Street and Central Park West (at the Museum of Natural History) and watch the parade’s balloons come to life.
Stroll around the inflation stations to look at the balloons at your leisure, while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the main event. If you want to see the characters more put together, arrive later in the evening (the event runs from 3 to 10pm).
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular
PC: www.urbanmatter.com
Want to get into the Christmas spirit a bit early? If so, check out this classic winter time tradition.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular kicks off the holiday season in New York City, and has been a Christmas spectacle for New Yorkers since 1933. You’ll get to witness performers such as tap dancers, a flying Santa Claus, and the iconic Radio City Rockettes.
Check out the official website here.
Feeding NYC
PC: www.thedreambig.org
Looking to give back this holiday season? Two days before Thanksgiving, join Feeding NYC to prepare, compile, and deliver meals to families in need in New York City.
If you can’t make it that day, there’s multiple other ways you can show support, such as by donating or helping out at your local soup kitchen.
For more information on how to volunteer, check out the link to the Feeding NYC website here.
Annual Day After Thanksgiving Hike
PC: www.timeout.com
Instead of fighting your way through aggressive holiday shoppers on Black Friday, burn off all those extra calories from Turkey Day and take part in the Annual Day After Thanksgiving Hike!
This trek runs through the Blood Root Valley Park in Staten Island, and features Greenbelt Nature Center educators who will guide you around the hike. This 2.5 mile track also features a stop at the historic David LaTourette house.
For more information, check out the Greenbelt website here.
