The weather is starting to get colder, but before you decide to start hibernating for the winter, remember you are in New York City and there are plenty of things to do! And by that I am not talking about No-Shave November.
The New York Botanical Gardens has a Holiday Train Show that would be perfect for getting into the holiday spirit! For about $15-25, you can see model trains, New York monument replicas, and enjoy some holiday treats starting November 17, 2012 until January 13, 2013. (For more details see: http://www.nybg.org/exhibitions/2012/holiday-train-show/index.php) There are even some special events like special guests on the opening day and Bar Car nights starting in December. It is less than an hour away from Barnard, so why not take the time to enjoy some holiday festivities instead of procrastinating on Facebook in Butler?
Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie… yes, one of the best eating holidays is in November–Thanksgiving! If you are still in the city, try to make your way over to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you are really ambitious, arriving at 6 am will secure you the best possible spot. The reserved viewing locations are at Central Park West from 70th to 65th streets, Columbus Circle on the west side, 7th Avenue between 54th and 42nd streets, 42nd street between 6th and 7th Avenues, 6th Avenue between 42nd and 34th streets, and the south side of 34th street between Broadway and 7th Avenue. (For more details see: http://www.nyctourist.com/macys_balnite1.htm) If you’re spending Thanksgiving with relatives or at home, you can always turn on your television to see the huge balloon characters and performances. Beats awkwardly making conversation with your Uncle Steve!
The month of November ends with the world renowned, Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 (my personal favorite). It’s worth seeing before all of the tourists come closer to the Christmas season. (For more details see: http://www.rockefellercenter.com/events/2012/11/28/2012-rockefeller-center-tree-lighting/) Then you can officially start counting down the days until winter break!
If this wasn’t enough, here are some more amazing New York City events in November:
http://www.nyctourist.com/new-york-comedy-festival
http://www.nyctourist.com/radio-city-christmas-spectacular-event