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When November comes along, a crisp chill fills the air, and a new energy takes over New York City — bringing along the first signs of the holiday season. At Rockefeller Center, timeless festive traditions take over: The Rink at Rockefeller Center Presented by Chase Freedom is open for ice skating, and the Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill return to offer a cozy escape from the chaos of the city.
But if the sights and sounds of the Big Apple are what you’re looking for, November has plenty of activities to fill your calendar — from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the New York Comedy Festival. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or more sophisticated entertainment before the holiday season gets hectic, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our picks of the seven best things to do in NYC in November.
Wondering what else is going on at Rockefeller Center in November? Scroll through our upcoming events, and sign up for The Center Newsletter to get the latest news delivered to your inbox.
1. Meet The Tree Day 2025
November 8
There isn’t a Christmas tree more famous than the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Every year, thousands gather in person (and even more tune in from home) to watch the Tree light up for the first time, but its arrival is just as exciting. Meet The Tree Day 2025 is an all-day affair at Rockefeller Center, and this year, we’re teaming up with FAO Schwarz and Peanuts® for free, family-friendly fun — from letters to Santa and a Snoopy meet-and-greet to Build-A-Bear's Make-Your-Own Snoopy station and more.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrival is a time-honored New York tradition, and a chance to get a first glimpse of the Tree before the lighting ceremony on December 4. If you’re lucky, you might go home with a rare souvenir: a fallen cone or twig from the Tree itself.
To be the first to hear about the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and upcoming holiday events, subscribe to The Center Newsletter.
2. NYC Marathon
November 2
It’s that special time of year again in New York: The NYC Marathon returns on Sunday, November 2. Neighborhoods throughout the city have been preparing for weeks for the rush of more than 50,000 runners racing through all five boroughs. While registration is closed, you can still be part of the excitement. Grab a spot along the course, cheer on the runners, and soak up the energy as they make their way from Staten Island to the Central Park finish line. For a truly unique perspective, head to Top of the Rock for a sweeping, unobstructed view of Central Park.
Once they’ve conquered the streets, runners can head to the skies for the perfect post-race photo. This year, Top of the Rock is offering free admission for 2025 marathon runners, plus 25% off tickets for up to three guests from October 30-November 3. If you’re not running, you can still cheer on the athletes in this must-do NYC event. Many parts of the city are completely shut down for the race, so embrace the energy and get in on the action. Take a stroll through Brooklyn Heights or Prospect Park, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or do a little sightseeing around Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center, or the nearby New York Public Library once the streets reopen.
3. New York Comedy Festival
November 7-16
Just as the clocks fall back and nights grow longer, the New York Comedy Festival returns to lift our spirits. For 10 nights, top comedians will take the stage, from Alex Bornstein’s sharp wit to Abby Govindan’s playful storytelling and Adam Conover’s clever humor. A highlight this year is a cheeky 25th anniversary celebration of the cancellation of Strangers with Candy, featuring the show’s original stars: Stephen Colbert, Amy Sedaris, and Paul Dinello. The festival takes place at venues all over town, from the West Side to Soho, the Lower East Side to Williamsburg. Whether you love standup or improv, the festival is the perfect way to embrace NYC nightlife, and you can easily grab a bite in nearby Chinatown or Little Italy before or after the show.
4. Broadway’s Star-Studded Lineup
Multiple dates
From revivals of campy classics to retellings of epic myths, Broadway is welcoming a star-studded lineup of new shows this November that has something for everyone. After a busy day of work, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the city, settle in for a night of world-class theater. For those who appreciate classic stories, catch Mark Strong and Lesley Manville in Oedipus, a modern take on the Greek tragedy. If you can’t resist the drama a love triangle brings, see Lea Michele and Aaron Tveit in Chess, a Cold War tale with an ABBA-composed score. And for family fun, The Muppets are making their Broadway debut as magician Rob Lake’s special guests.
No matter your style, November guarantees star power and spectacle. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to dine before or after your show, Rockefeller Center’s celebrated restaurants are just a short walk away.
5. NYBG Holiday Train Show
November 15-January 11
The New York Botanical Garden is a magical part of the Bronx year-round, but it truly comes alive during the holidays — decorated to the nines to evoke nostalgia, coziness, and cheer. For over 30 years, the gardens have honored the tradition of the Holiday Train Show, with artists coming together to create NYC-themed holiday displays around G-scale model trains and trolleys. It’s like stepping into a New York City that’s been reimagined with trains soaring above and throughout the high-rise landmarks and buildings you’ve grown to love, from Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty to Brooklyn Bridge Park and Coney Island.
Make it a festive family outing by day and see the sights with a guided walking tour, or grab friends and attend a 21+ night, when you can view the exhibit while enjoying specially curated bites and cocktails. This must-visit holiday tradition is a perfect way to combine sightseeing in the boroughs with a touch of festive magic. You can even combine it with a day trip to DUMBO along the East River for more stunning city views.
6. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 27
Everyone remembers watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as a kid. Maybe you snuck away from kitchen duties to catch a glimpse of the show, or the whole family gathered around the TV. Now, imagine seeing the iconic parade in person. This year will mark New York City’s 98th Thanksgiving Day Parade, and while performers have yet to be announced, an incredible lineup of floats, balloons, Broadway ensembles, invigorating marching bands, and more are scheduled to make an appearance. (Pro tip: Look out for a new Bronx Zoo float and a new and improved Spider-Man balloon.)
City-based spectators can find the 2.5-mile route — which goes through the skyscrapers of Midtown Manhattan and right by Rockefeller Center — here. Try to get a spot between 48th Street and 51st Street; that way, after the parade concludes, you can embark on your holiday shopping or grab something to eat at one of Rockefeller Center’s many restaurants, right in the heart of Manhattan.
7. Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
November 6-January 4
Step into a century of holiday magic at Radio City Music Hall, where this year’s Christmas Spectacular celebrates the Rockettes’ 100th anniversary. This year, audiences can experience special onsite activations honoring the history and legacy of this legendary line of women, plus access exclusive Rockettes merchandise. The show itself blends timeless traditions, like the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” with innovative choreography, dazzling costumes, and immersive digital projections. From festive family moments to jaw-dropping precision dance, every performance promises the joy and spectacle that have made the Rockettes an iconic part of New York City’s holiday season.
8. The Nutcracker at New York City Ballet
November 23-January 3
The Land of the Sweets comes in many flavors throughout the five boroughs, but none is more iconic than George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at New York City Ballet. The beloved ballet runs throughout the holiday season, kicking off the day after Thanksgiving at Lincoln Center on the west side. One of the most complex performances in the Company’s repertoire, the show includes a cast of 150 characters — including students from the School of American Ballet — and requires over 60 musicians and 40 stagehands to bring it to life. Costumes designed by famed costumier Barbara Karinska, as well as lavish sets that include a one-ton Christmas tree, among other extraordinary feats and visual effects, draw the audience into a magical world that is not to be missed.
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