Thanksgiving Day in New York
The Famous Thanksgiving Parade
Date:
11/27/2025
Categories: Events
LOCATION: Central Park West WHEN: Fourth Thursday of November
ACTIVITY: Parade
Thanksgiving and the Parade in NYC
In New York City, Thanksgiving Day, with the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, is among the most beloved events of the year. Immediately after Thanksgiving, another world-renowned tradition takes place: the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. These two iconic celebrations officially mark the beginning of the Holiday Season in NYC.
Thanksgiving is a national holiday, meaning banks and offices are closed. Most museums and attractions also observe the holiday and will therefore be closed for the day. Still, the city comes alive with events, parades, and restaurants offering special holiday menus—making it a unique time for visitors.
What Thanksgiving Celebrates
Celebrated across the United States, Thanksgiving is one of the most meaningful holidays in the American calendar. It takes place on the fourth Thursday of November (since 1941) and has origins dating back to 1621, when the Pilgrims in the Plymouth Colony—now in Massachusetts—shared a meal with the Wampanoag Native Americans as a gesture of gratitude for helping them grow crops and hunt.
The holiday symbolizes a moment of thankfulness for the year’s blessings and is now mainly celebrated with family gatherings and abundant meals. At the center of the table stands the iconic roast turkey, served with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, and a variety of regional sides.
Beyond its culinary traditions, Thanksgiving is also a time for community service: many New Yorkers volunteer to distribute meals to the homeless or assist soup kitchens, particularly in less affluent neighborhoods.
Thanksgiving Day – Upcoming Dates
- Thursday, November 27, 2025
- Thursday, November 26, 2026
- Thursday, November 25, 2027
- Thursday, November 23, 2028
- Thursday, November 22, 2029
- Thursday, November 28, 2030
The Thanksgiving Parade: Where to Watch It
In NYC, the traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade runs from 9:00 AM to noon and is broadcast nationally, attracting millions of viewers. The parade, which began in 1924, is the second-oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country. The route starts at Central Park West (near 77th Street) and travels down Sixth Avenue to Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square.
The parade features spectacular floats, marching bands, clowns, acrobats, celebrities, and the legendary giant character balloons of beloved cartoon icons like Snoopy, Pikachu, and SpongeBob.
If you want to see the parade in person, arrive very early—before 7:00 AM—for a good spot along Central Park West, Columbus Circle, or Sixth Avenue. On Wednesday afternoon, you can also visit the balloon inflation area near the Museum of Natural History—an experience especially fun for families with children.
How Americans Celebrate Thanksgiving
Besides the parade, the highlight of the day is the Thanksgiving feast—a heartfelt gathering to share gratitude, stories, and traditional food. Families and friends gather around the table and often spend the afternoon watching American football games on TV.
In NYC, you’ll also find themed tourist experiences: Thanksgiving dinner cruises, rooftop brunches with panoramic views, special events in Central Park, and holiday-themed theater shows. Many hotels offer seasonal packages that include dinner and skyline views of the Hudson River or the Empire State Building lit in festive colors.
Tips for Tourists in NYC During Thanksgiving
If you're visiting New York during Thanksgiving week, it can be an unforgettable experience. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Book ahead: Restaurants and special activities often sell out weeks in advance.
- Check attraction schedules: Many museums and landmarks will be closed on Thursday.
- See the balloon inflation on Wednesday afternoon near the Museum of Natural History.
- Consider a dinner cruise: A scenic and romantic option to enjoy traditional fare and NYC views.
After Thanksgiving: Black Friday and the Start of Christmas
The day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, the official kickoff to the holiday shopping season. Stores open early—some even at midnight—and offer deep discounts, with lines forming well before sunrise. In New York, department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks present spectacular holiday displays and unbeatable deals.
From the following weekend, the city transforms: holiday lights go up, Christmas markets open, and festive cheer fills the air. The Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony is the signature event that officially ushers in the Christmas season.
More info: Black Friday in NYC | Christmas in NYC
Traveling to New York? 3 Articles to learn how to get around the city
Read our Top-3 Articles to learn how to get around New York City using Public Transportation.
Categories: What to know
Categories: What to know
Categories: What to know
A New York Vacation for Thanksgiving - How to plan it
If you have special request, or would like to inquire about a Hotel for your stay in New York.