Thrills and Chills: Fall Holiday Events in New York City

Halloween in New York City

Halloween in New York City is a spectacle like no other. The city's streets, parks, and historic buildings become the stage for an array of ghostly gatherings and eerie events that cater to all ages. Here are some spooky ways to celebrate this holiday the New York way.

The Village Halloween Parade

The Village Halloween Parade is the crown jewel of NYC’s Halloween celebrations. This iconic event draws thousands of participants and spectators, all dressed in their most creative and elaborate costumes. The parade features everything from giant puppets to live bands, creating a vibrant and spooky atmosphere in the heart of Greenwich Village. Whether you choose to march in the parade or watch from the sidelines, this is a Halloween experience you won’t forget.

New York City Ghost Tours

For those who enjoy a good scare, New York City offers several haunted houses and ghost tours that delve into its spooky history. Popular spots include Blood Manor, one of the scariest haunted attractions in the city, and the Merchant’s House Museum, known for its ghostly residents. Ghost tours of Greenwich Village and the East Village reveal the haunted past of these historic neighborhoods, with chilling stories that will leave you shivering.

Halloween Pub Crawls 

Halloween pub crawls in New York City are a thrilling way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife while embracing the spooky season. Every year, participants don their most creative costumes and hop from one themed bar to the next, enjoying festive cocktails, live music, and Halloween-themed decorations. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the West Village to Williamsburg, are brimming with unique atmospheres, ensuring a unique experience at every stop.

Thanksgiving in New York City

Thanksgiving in New York City is synonymous with grand parades, indulgent feasts, and the beginning of the holiday season. It’s a time for both locals and visitors to come together in gratitude and celebration.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an American tradition that has been delighting audiences for nearly a century. This spectacular event features giant balloons of beloved characters, intricate floats, marching bands, and performances by Broadway stars. Whether you watch it in person along the parade route or from the comfort of your home, the parade is a Thanksgiving staple that signals the start of the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Dining in NYC

Thanksgiving is all about the feast, and New York City’s restaurants pull out all the stops to offer unforgettable dining experiences. From classic turkey dinners with all the trimmings to gourmet twists on traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone. Some top spots include The Smith, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious Thanksgiving menu, and Tavern on the Green, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by the beauty of Central Park.

Rockefeller Tree Lighting

The lighting of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is one of New York City's most cherished holiday traditions, marking the official start of the festive season. This spectacular event draws thousands of visitors to Midtown Manhattan and millions of viewers tuning in from around the world. As the switch is flipped and the tree illuminates the night sky, the city is instantly transformed into a winter wonderland, embodying the spirit of the holidays in true New York fashion.

High Holy Days in New York City

The Jewish High Holy Days, which include Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat Torah, are a deeply significant time in the Jewish calendar, marked by reflection, repentance, and renewal. From synagogue services to community celebrations, here’s a little more information about the High Holy Days celebrations in NYC.

High Holy Days:

Rosh Hashanah: the Jewish New Year is a time for introspection and the beginning of the ten days of awe leading up to Yom Kippur.

Yom Kippur: the Day of Atonement, which is the holiest day in Judaism, dedicated to fasting, prayer, and seeking forgiveness. 

Sukkot: celebrates the fall harvest and commemorates the Israelites' time in the desert, culminating in Simchat Torah.

Simchat Torah: a joyous celebration of the conclusion and restarting of the annual Torah reading cycle.

Where to Celebrate:

There are many Synagogues and communities throughout the city who welcome guests to join their celebrations. These include but aren’t limited to:

• Temple Israel of the City of New York
• Central Synagogue
• The Village Temple
• Park East Synagogue

Make sure to check the temple schedules and plan ahead! Many of these events require member reservations or guest tickets to prevent overcrowding.