Events & Festivals

There’s absolutely no denying the fact that New York City is a literal beacon of overwhelming allure and hope for anyone who has ever wanted to travel to a thriving metropolis to get blissfully lost in a series of events that will fill their memory bank with the kind of highlight moments you simply never forget. When it comes to successfully plotting out a trip to New York City to attend one of the city’s rightfully infamous and cherished annual events, it’s key that you fully know what you’re signing up for. You’ll want to make sure that you have a firm picture of what to expect before you commit to purchasing that flight out to “The Big Apple.” We’ll now take a look at some of the most notable annual events that you can have the chance to attend during your time in New York City. 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Each year as the holiday season descends upon the ever-bustling cityscape that is New York City, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is chosen from a neighboring community, and then brought into NYC to act as the center of the holiday season in NYC. The tree is set up, lovingly decorated, and then for the weeks that follow it’s most often lit during the first week of December. The event itself has grown to feature many famous people who attend. You should note that the tree’s lights are turned off at night, so make sure that you plan your trip to give yourself adequate time to experience the tree in all of its holiday glory. 

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become many a family’s Thanksgiving Day tradition since as far back as 1924. You’ve probably already seen the blown-out spectacle on a TV before, but to attend the event in person is an entirely new level of a magical experience. The parade is designed to run up Central Park West and 6th Ave within New York City, and it always features a massive display of floats, musical acts, marching bands, and epic overside balloons inspired by various famous pop culture characters throughout history. You’ll also be able to witness live performances from Broadway casts as well as an impressive lineup of high school marching bands from all over the country. 

St. Patrick's Day Parade

St. Patrick's Day can truly bring New York City to life with all kinds of excitable energy. The celebration is carried out in early spring as New Yorkers and people visiting the city alike are practicing immense gratitude for no longer being cold to the bone, and the parade takes place on New York's famed 5th Ave., between 44th and 79th street. At the parade itself, you'll be able to witness your fill of floats, inspired bagpipers, wildly talented dancers, and more. Some of the best places to witness the parade are Central Park and/or St. Patrick's Cathedral. 

Times Square Countdown

Millions upon millions of excited attendees flock to New York City from around the world to grit out the sometimes intense winter cold of the city, all to witness the truly legendary celebration that occurs to mark the dawn of the New Year. Be sure to plan sufficiently to smoothly navigate the inevitable crowds that will gather around Times Square on December 31st, as people await the epic ball drop.