November introduces New Yorkers to bright light strings, decorations down the streets and holiday spirit. In honor of the magic to come and the magic that October left with us, here is a guide straddling the line between scary fun and jolly entertainment. There are plenty of feel-good events to partake in with your entire family, some friends or rolling solo.
Friday, 11/1
Winter in Bryant Park New York, Manhattan 10018
Nearly 125 kiosks will be set up in the city, participating in the Winter in Bryant Park event. Visitors can shop for seasonal knick-knacks, early Christmas gifts, and most importantly have a go at ice skating for free.
Saturday, 11/2
Secrets of the Dead Film Festival 122 Meserole Avenue, Brooklyn
Film Noir Cinema is carrying on the Halloween energy with their film event. The screenings are all about death and what it entails. Confront your fears and uncertainties while watching never before seen shorts at the NYC based Secrets of the Dead film festival.
Sunday, 11/3
Boo at the Zoo 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
It's the same zoo families love to visit, but better. Now, the Bronx Zoo is transformed for Halloween and offering a little more fun to visitors. Seasonal changes include decor, costumed workers, pumpkin carving, magic shows, a bird meet and greet segment, Bootoberfest and more.
Marathon Day Assorted Locations
The event that stretches across the boroughs knows as the TCS New York City Marathon returns. Participants have trained for some time leading up to the race itself and they're ready to run through the 5 boroughs to the finish line. If you're interested in the competitive energy, there are locations to view the action and you can find a place nearest to you.
Day of the Dead 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn
Families can celebrate the day of the Dead with their children with some guidance from the Brooklyn Children's Museum. Professionals and facilitators will be leading kid-friendly activities and crafts surrounding the concepts of the afterlife and other materials. Attendees can expect to create art, enjoy live music and learn about Dia De Los Muertos.
Monday, 11/4
Pumpkin Smash Assorted Locations
In the event that you've decorated your apartment or home with pumpkins, the Pumpkin Smash might be your type of event. If you are in possession of a rotting Jack-o-Lantern, listen closely. There will be numerous sites across NYC, organized to use your pumpkins to create compost. If you participate in the event, you've been able to not only destroy the old vegetable but also benefit the cause.
Wednesday, 11/6
White Light Festival Lincoln Center Plaza, Manhattan
Music is the focus during the White Light Festival, returning to Lincoln Center. Visitors will watch live performances with choreographed numbers and short films from creative and talented directors. The performing arts event offers an array of art mediums to enjoy so it's got something for everyone.
Thursday, 11/7
Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival 80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
Catch new short films that speak to today's social terrain at the Imagine This Women's International Film Festival. Media lovers can also watch screenings of unique full-length features, which like the short films were produced, directed and written by women. Get your tickets now to secure your seat.
Canstruction 250 Vesey Street, Manhattan
Watch as nothing is renewed and turned into art at Canstruction. Artists will reveal masterpieces constructed from old cans, in both big and small works. The sculptures will delight and shock you, the ultimate form of recycling.
Saturday, 11/9
Latin American Cultural Week Assorted Locations
The Latin American Cultural Week seeks to inform and educate while sharing the beauty of Latin culture. Tickets will give you access to performances, films, live performances and other creations linked to Latin culture. Learn about visionaries and professionals from a Latin background and the work they have or intend on creating.
Thursday, 11/14
Nutcracker Rouge 383 Troutman Street, Brooklyn
The dance force known as Company XIV is returning with a new show for this season. Nutcracker rouge has been called genius and dazzling, and a must-see on a hot date night. The idea of burlesque transforms under the careful direction of Company XIV's creativity, dedication, talent, and imagination. In this performance, traditional holiday values collide headfirst with sensuality and scandal.
Saturday, 11/16
Beerathon NYC 149 Bleecker St, Manhattan
Challenge your love for beer with this interactive indulgent event. The Beerathon asks beer-lovers to visit 26 different bars, all offering their own 26 craft beers. The highlight of the experience is the discounted pricing on the menu items.
Saturday, 11/23
Holiday Train Show 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx
Let your inner child or literal child rejoice at the enchanting sights of the Holiday Train Show. The New York Botanical Garden is hosting this year's visual arts show featuring life-like trains, elegant lighting displays and more. Bring out your entire family, the little ones and your best buds to enjoy the 175 landmarks large exhibit.
Friday, 11/29
Charles' Dickens Christmas 29 E 4th St, Manhattan
The Merchant's House is bringing a classic to life this holiday season. An actor playing Charles Dickens in voice, appearance, and mannerisms will recite A Christmas Tale. The event takes place in a beautifully decorated parlor, prepared for Christmas time glamour.
African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF) Assorted Locations
Columbia University and Cinema Village are hosting the NYADIFF. The New York African Diaspora International Film Festival will present films from African American filmmakers, writers, and creatives focusing on the African experience. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time for different showtimes and films.