What’s Happening in NYC November 2017
The weather might be brisk, but November is an exciting time to be in New York City. More than 50,000 people from around the world flock here to run in the annual marathon, and as many as 3.5 million will converge for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. In addition to these crowd-pleasing events, things to do in NYC November 2017 include high brow film festivals dedicated to architecture and design, and concert series about art and faith. Travelers looking for things to do in NYC in November can experience everything from restaurant tastings to hilarious comedy. You won’t want to miss these top November events in New York City.
Things to Do in NYC November 2017
Architecture and Design Film Festival — through Nov. 5
For its 9th year, the Architecture and Design Film Festival will screen 34 flicks about prominent figures, iconic buildings, and themes in the fields of architecture and design at the Cinepolis in Chelsea. There are also relevant panel discussions, including one about New York City’s efforts to reclaim and refresh its 520-mile coastline. Tickets start at $16.50 for an individual film showing.
White Light Festival at Lincoln Center — through Nov. 15
The theme of this year’s White Light Festival is faith, which is explored by artists of every genre. Some take the concept of faith quite literally, exploring the topic through psalms and a capella performances. Others have a more liberal take, interpreting the theme through renditions of Samuel Beckett or oral storytelling. Serious arts enthusiasts can even stick around for the White Light Lounges that follow most performances, giving ticket holders the chance to mingle with artists and attendees.
NYC Marathon — Nov. 5
Since 1970, people from around the world have been competing in the New York City Marathon. It’s changed quite a bit since then, when it was held entirely in Central Park. Today, runners cross five bridges and run through all five boroughs in the famous 26.2-mile course. More than a million people line the course to cheer on the runners—so for the best view, arrive early and stake out valuable sidewalk space. At Mile 20 (135th Street and Alexander Avenue, in the Bronx), New Balance will host a block party with local DJs and a drumline.
New York Taste — Nov. 6
Sample New York City’s famous restaurants and bars during New York Taste, a three-hour eating event. Tickets start at $100, and get you access to more than 40 of the city’s best dining and drinking venues. This year’s participants range from upscale Aureole and Gramercy Tavern to trendy confections like DO cookie dough and OddFellows Ice Cream Co. Splurge on a VIP ticket for an extra preview hour, a gift bag, and access to the VIP lounge.
The New York Comedy Festival — Nov. 7-12
Nick Offerman and Bill Maher are just two of the big names making appearances in this year’s New York Comedy Festival. In addition to stand-up comedy performances, the festival features Second City pop-up training centers, comedic bar crawls, and live podcasts. Performances take place at more than two dozen venues across the city, including Gotham Comedy Club, Madison Square Garden, and Carnegie Hall.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade — Nov. 23
In the 91st Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, giant balloon versions of pop culture characters (the red Angry Bird, Pikachu, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid’s Greg Heffley) will make an appearance on New York City’s streets. The parade works its way from Macy’s at Herald Square to Central Park West, at 77th Street. Head to Sixth Avenue for the best views of the balloons, floats, marching bands, and performers.
Looking to explore NYC in November? You’ll want to fuel up at the best coffee shops in Midtown.
