A Memorable Thanksgiving in NYC: Parade, Feasts, and More

The city of New York is known for its towering skyscrapers and yellow taxis. Every dreamer's haven the city of New York delivers opportunities flowing in all directions; it has become a popular destination among the youth around the world. The city is a cultural melting pot which blends in the flavor of dynamism and diversity as it houses people from all over the world. Celebrating any festival in New York is an adventure in itself, but Thanksgiving tops the list. Let’s dive deeper into experiencing Thanksgiving in NYC. 

Thanksgiving in New York City

From the Thanksgiving Parade at Macy’s, which fills the skies with huge and vibrant balloons, to the delicious pumpkin pies and turkeys at the famous classic diners around the city, Thanksgiving in NYC is celebrated with flair & flavor. Through this blog, we will help you explore the city during this festive season and explore things to do in NYC on Thanksgiving. So, put on a flexible outfit, roll up your sleeves, and join us on this journey to witness a captivating Thanksgiving Eve in NYC. 

Things to do in NYC on Thanksgiving

Have you landed in NYC during the festive time? Well, here is all that you need to explore while spending Thanksgiving in NYC. Read this blog to the end to know what happens in NYC during Thanksgiving.

1. Thanksgiving Parade at Macy’s

On each Thanksgiving, New York City witnesses the glory of enormous balloons, ecstatic performances, and celebrity appearances. This year’s parade would be the 97th Thanksgiving Parade in NYC in a row. This parade stretches from around the West Side to the MidTown, covering a distance of around 2.5 miles altogether. This is a long-going Thanksgiving tradition, which makes it one of the best things to do in NYC on Thanksgiving. 

2. Try Ice Skating 

If your definition of fun is an adventure, then Ice Skating in New York is something you must try. The city offers numerous ice skating opportunities with indoor and outdoor rinks. This experience will leave you rolling on the floor as you glide and fall in the process of learning. Take your loved ones with you and have a great time. As the winter approaches, Thanksgiving becomes a way to welcome the warmth and what a great way to look forward to it than a day skating on the ice, making it one of the best ways to spend your Thanksgiving eve in NYC. Some of the best options in NYC for ice skating are - Central Perk Rink - Wollman Rink, and the Rink at Rockefeller Center. 

3. Go Shopping at Holiday Markets

As the holiday season approaches, indulging in some festive shopping is a must. The city is filled with multiple holiday markets for you to skim through. Go on a shopping spree and fill your bags with items you would love to own at a cheaper price - *holiday discount applicable*. There are several markets for you to explore to level up your Thanksgiving in New York City, such as - Winter Village at Bryant Park, Grand Central Holiday Fair, Union Square Holiday Market, and many more.

4. Run the Turkey Trot

Before filling your tummy with the delicious Thanksgiving dinner in NYC, people in the city usually participate in various runs and marathons around the city to burn some extra calories. These marathons are also run as a form of charity to raise funds for socially backward people or any other community that is in desperate need of money. 

5. Take a Stroll at the Central Park

When you're in New York, a visit to Central Park is almost synonymous with being in the city. This also continues amid the celebrations and festivities. It is one of the best things to do on Thanksgiving in NYC for nature lovers. You can enjoy the iconic outside spaces filled with greenery and beautiful landscapes amid the city chaos. Check out the beautiful colors of fall leaves and witness nature's changing colors. 

6. Give Back to the Society

As the holiday season inspires a sense of generosity, numerous individuals are compelled to contribute to their communities in various ways. So, one of the ways to spend Thanksgiving in NYC would be to take up volunteer work and help the people in need by preparing meals, cooking the extra turkeys and being the delivery person for food around NYC. 

7. Witness the Spectacular Christmas Display

As Thanksgiving approaches, it brings with it the anticipation that Christmas is just on the horizon. This prompts a lot of shop owners to display their Christmas Decor and influence customers into preparing for their Christmas holiday beforehand. What makes it interesting is the whole entire vibe on the streets of New York. This can be one thing you can do on Thanksgiving Eve in NYC. Many stores that you can specifically watch out for include Bloomingdale’s Tiffany & Co., Macy’s, and so on.

8. Visit the Best Restaurants in NYC

Taste the delicacies around the city of New York as you go around to find the best Thanksgiving dinner in NYC. The city has the best restaurants which serve delectable food. You can skip the big meal preparation at home, step out a bit and enjoy the festive vibe in NYC. Here are multiple places you can try if you are looking for a place to have dinner in NYC - The Smith, Sereneco, Jack & Charlie no.118, Mandarin Oriental, etc. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, worry not; we have got you covered as well. You can explore the various vegan restaurants in NYC and enjoy your Thanksgiving to the fullest.

9. Explore the Empire State Building

If you're a newcomer to the city and find yourself a bit unsure about what to do on Thanksgiving in NYC, don't fret – we've got a plan for you. You can explore the magnificent and renowned Empire State Building in New York. You can witness a beautiful view of the city from the 86th floor. You can also climb up to the 102nd floor and get a wide and full view of Central Park from above. What a fun way to explore the city!

10. Watch a Broadway Show

Last but not least, before catching up on your big Thanksgiving dinner in NYC, you can get a quick glimpse of a range of interesting Broadway shows. Various productions put up matinee shows on the day of Thanksgiving in NYC. So, these were all the things that you can do on Thanksgiving in NYC. We hope you create unforgettable memories while watching the Macy’s Parade or having dinner at the best restaurant in NYC. As you take in the sights and sounds, you'll find that Thanksgiving in NYC is a celebration of traditions and a warm welcome to all who visit this incredible metropolis.