Whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving with family and friends or going out to a restaurant, there are plenty of fun events happening throughout New York City to get you in the holiday spirit. If you love shopping, then get started on the holiday bargains during Black Friday. For family-friendly outings, ice skating, holidays shows and tree lightings will create an enjoyable Thanksgiving weekend for all ages. Here is a list of some Thanksgiving events happening in New York City.
85th Anniversary Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Every year, people from all over the world come to see the Macy’s Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year’s parade line-up includes performances by Mary J. Blige, Avril Lavigne and the cast of Sister Act. Children will enjoy giant balloons and floats featuring a variety of cartoon favorites including Snoopy the Flying Ace, Spider-Man, Kermit the Frog and Dora the Explorer. The parade route will begin at 77th Street and Central Park West and end at 34th Street and 7th Avenue. The parade will start at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. If you are attending the parade, arrive by 7 a.m. for best views and make sure you dress accordingly for the weather.
South Street Seaport’s 28th Annual Tree Lighting Spectacular
On Friday, November 25, enjoy live music and the tree lighting ceremony at the South Street Seaport. TODAY Show personality and fashion expert Jill Martin will host this year’s annual event which includes performances by the Darren Wallis Jazz Trio, the Soul Tigers Marching Band and The Big Apple Chorus. Of course, Santa Claus will be there to assist with the countdown for the tree lighting ceremony. There will also be a special performance by Rock and Roll Legend Ronnie Spector. On the weekends during the holiday season, local New York choral groups will perform holiday classics from 1 – 3 p.m.
Books of Wonder Annual Holiday Kickoff Event
If you have kids who love to read or a fan of children’s books, then you don’t want to miss Books of Wonder’s annual Holiday Kickoff event featuring ten of today’s most talented authors and artists. The event which will be held from 12-2 p.m. on Saturday, November 28 includes authors and artists introducing their new books filled with heart-warming tales for the entire family. Audience members will have the chance to ask questions and purchase sign copies of these books. Books of Wonder is located on 18 West 18th Street in Manhattan.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
For 79 years, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular has been delighting audiences with holiday musical selections, the Radio City Rockettes, and wooden soldiers. This year’s show includes the traditional Living Nativity and Santa scenes mixed with all new 3D scenes and special effects. There will be performances on Thanksgiving Day and during that entire weekend. Tickets start at $45.00 and Radio City Music Hall is located at 1260 6th Avenue at 50th Street. The show runs through January 2nd.