Top Thanksgiving Events in NYC You Won’t Want to Miss

NYC Thanksgiving Parade Float - Image by TD Dolci

During Thanksgiving, New York City very quickly turns itself into a beautifully majestic place that captures the pure essence of the season. The events in NYC during Thanksgiving weekend are endless; there are so many that you might not know which ones to attend or if you miss one in the mix of it all. That is why we have put together an amazing guide with the top Thanksgiving events in NYC you won’t want to miss.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Starting strong on our list is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is a must-see and one of the most iconic Thanksgiving events in NYC. Featuring massive balloons, stunning floats, Broadway performances, and marching bands, it’s a spectacular way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends.

The parade begins just four blocks from The Wallace.

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Kick off the holiday season with the legendary Rockettes at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, one of the most exciting events for Thanksgiving in NYC. This high-energy show, featuring dazzling costumes and choreography, is a quintessential NYC holiday tradition. Although a Christmas event, the Rockettes at Radio City is a great way to start your holiday celebrations.

Central Park Fall Foliage Tour

If there’s a perfect time to take a relaxing walk through Central Park and admire the beautifully colored fall foliage, it would be Thanksgiving weekend. For a more guided experience, sign up for a Central Park fall foliage tour, an experience like no other within the city during your NYC Thanksgiving weekend.

The entrance to Central Park is about a 10-minute walk from The Wallace or approximately a 5-minute taxi ride.

Thanksgiving Dinner Cruises

Looking for something different to do this Thanksgiving, perhaps a truly unique Thanksgiving event in NYC? Enjoy a dinner cruise around Manhattan, where you can feast on a traditional Thanksgiving meal while soaking in stunning views of the city skyline, including landmarks like the Statue of Liberty.

Brooklyn Thanksgiving Market Tour

Venture across the river to enjoy Brooklyn’s Thanksgiving markets this holiday season. The Smorgasburg market offers food vendors serving seasonal treats, while the Brooklyn Flea features vintage finds and handmade goods. It’s a fun and festive way to spend part of your Thanksgiving weekend in NYC.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

A classic New York City winter activity, ice skating at Rockefeller Center is the perfect way to celebrate Thanksgiving weekend. Gliding beneath the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree is a must for any visitor during the holiday season and a highlight of the events in NYC on Thanksgiving weekend.

Black Friday Shopping in NYC

Who doesn’t love a good sale and the brink of the holiday season? After the Thanksgiving celebrations, get into the excitement of shopping for Black Friday in some of the city’s top shopping destinations, including Fifth Avenue, SoHo, and Herald Square. It’s a perfect activity to round out your Thanksgiving weekend in NYC and snag some holiday deals.

Make Your Thanksgiving Weekend Unforgettable

Stay at The Wallace to enjoy all the best Thanksgiving events in NYC. Conveniently located on the Upper West Side, The Wallace offers the perfect home base for all your holiday adventures. Book your stay today!