New York City lights up during Thanksgiving. High spirits, delicious meals, and holiday celebrations abound. Thanksgiving, a traditional kick-off to the holiday season, is a time for family, friends, great food, and – especially in this bustling city – great fun. One of the best-known holiday activities in the city is the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade, a tradition that has been around since 1924.
This year, Thanksgiving takes place on Thursday, November 24. Whether you’re in town for the holiday or you’re spending a little extra time in the city before or after a work trip, here are some of the best things to do this year.
Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
From 9:00 am to noon on Thanksgiving Day, the streets of upper and midtown Manhattan fill with joy in the form of floats and performances. Usually, the parade travels from West 77th & Canal Park West all the way to Macy’s Herald Square, so you can find a spot along that route or watch the parade live on NBC.
The parade features classic floats like a huge Snoopy balloon and Santa, as well as iconic performances from the Radio City Rockettes. Who the big performers will be this year is kept under wraps, but groups in the celebration’s lineup include the Big Apple Circus and Spirit of America Cheer. Past stars who have graced the parade include John Legend, Dolly Parton, and Rihanna.
This iconic parade is a can’t-miss event, especially if you find yourself in New York City for the holiday.
Enjoy a Holiday Meal at the Tuti Lounge & Bar and Nearby Restaurants
The Tuti Lounge & Bar at The Marmara Park Avenue offers classic American fare that is perfect for a Thanksgiving brunch. You can wake up here on Thanksgiving Day and immediately enjoy a delicious meal that will start the holiday off right. Menu highlights include a Turkish Breakfast, Griddle Buttermilk Pancakes, Lobster Ravioli, a Steak Panini, and even a Charcuterie Platter. Head down to the beautifully appointed restaurant or enjoy a luxurious room service meal on Thanksgiving.
Many nearby restaurants also offer impeccable Thanksgiving spreads. At the sophisticated Italian Scarpetta, you can savor a $125/person prix-fixe meal on Thanksgiving, where options include holiday-inspired classics like Butternut Squash Soup, Roasted Turkey, and Pumpkin Cheesecake. Wolfgang’s Steak House on Park Avenue also offers a highly coveted, classic Thanksgiving meal.
Enjoy a Sweet Treat from Magnolia Bakery
There’s no better way to end a Thanksgiving celebration than with a dessert from New York City’s famous Magnolia Bakery. The bakery, which took off after being featured in Sex and the City, is known for its selection of decadently tasty American baked goods. In honor of the Thanksgiving holiday, Magnolia Bakery sells seasonal pies and other classic desserts, such as their popular Banana Pudding. From Thanksgiving cupcakes to a Chocolate Pecan Pie, you will not go wrong with a sweet treat from Magnolia.
Explore the Bryant Park Holiday Market
Known as Manhattan’s winter wonderland, the Bryant Park Holiday Market, part of the Bank of America Winter Village, is a must-see holiday destination. The area is home to a 17,000 square foot ice skating rink, a European-style open air market, and The Lodge, a bar and food hall. The market is the perfect place for holiday shopping – each custom kiosk features unique gifts and the work of a local artisan or craftsperson. The Lodge is designed for you to kick back and relax after a jaunt in the rink or a stroll through the market; here, you can enjoy a holiday-themed cocktail and some delicious food from a New York City eatery.
Bask in the luxury of New York City Thanksgiving celebrations during a stay at The Marmara Park Avenue. Book now!