The day of thanks is almost upon us. It’s the day when it’s okay to eat – in one sitting – ten plates of sweet potato casserole topped with melted marshmallow and toasted pecans, creamy mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy, and roasted turkey overflowing with rich stuffing. This year’s Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 22.
As the temperature continues to drop closer to zero, it becomes more alluring to hibernate and stay in. But don’t be discouraged! Make sure to get out and experience all the fun that the city has to offer! Here are some events to get you into the Thanksgiving spirit:
1. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
From 9AM to 6PM on Thanksgiving day, Macy’s will be hosting its annual star-studded Thanksgiving parade. Musical performers making an appearance include Ashley Tisdale, John Legend, Mackenzie Ziegler, Johnny Orlando, Pentatonix, Rita Ora, and Sugarland. The parade will start from West 77th Street and Central Park West and make its way downtown to Macy’s Herald Square. Expect to see characters like the Pillsbury Doughboy, Pikachu, the Grinch, Olaf from Frozen, and Spongebob Squarepants.
2. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – Balloon Inflation
The real show of the Thanksgiving Parade isn’t the actual parade, but rather the day before when the balloons are inflated at the Museum of Natural History. The balloon inflation will take place from 1-8PM. The earlier you arrive, the smaller the crowd, although the balloons might not be inflated enough for an impressive viewing. Access to the public entrance is on West 79th Street and Columbus Avenue. You can view the balloon inflation along the streets around the museum: West 77th Street, West 81st Street, Columbus Avenue and Central Park West.
3. Grand Central’s Thanksgiving Market
From 8AM-7PM on Wednesday, November 21, Grand Central will be hosting a Thanksgiving market, featuring dessert shops and bakeries like Financier Patisserie, Jacques Torres, and Magnolia Bakery. The market will take place at Grand Central Taxi Stand on 25 Vanderbilt Avenue at E. 43rd Street. Go get your desserts just in time for Thanksgiving!
4. NYC Turkey Trot
There’s no better way to burn off Thanksgiving dinner than a little running. On November 24th, join 60,000 other runners across the country as they participate in the American Turkey Tradition, a nation-wide running festival. The NYC Turkey Trot is a 5k Run/Walk, where participants can dress up as turkeys as they compete for awards given to the top 3 participants for both genders in each age group and the overall race. Visit their website for more information.
Don’t stay in this Thanksgiving break. Go out and experience all that the city has to offer!