It’s the most wonderful time of the year, when New York State’s beautiful Gilded Age mansions and historic estates deck their halls with brightly lit trees, elegant wreaths, glittering ornaments, and festive garland.
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Category - Holidays
Use ‘Em or Lose ‘Em: Best Ways to Use Your Leftover Vacation Days in December
Nov 24, 2025 by Rachel Dymond
Don’t let your PTO disappear at the end of the year. December is the perfect excuse to take a day off, or a few, and explore the incredible experiences New York State has waiting for you. Carve twists…
13 Ways to Spend New Year's in New York
Nov 17, 2025 by I LOVE NY Staff
It’s time to celebrate the New Year in New York State! Welcome 2026 with a First Day hike at a state park or trail, explore a wildlife refuge, or drive through an amazing light display. Want to stay home while you toast to the new year? Enjoy virtual ball drops, and home-based family-friendly activities courtesy of New York attractions. …
Put down the books, and pack your bags! School’s out and adventure is in. If you’re looking to make memories on a fun, family-friendly getaway, New York has endless experiences for every age, holiday, and season.
Experience the magic of the season this December in New York State with holly jolly events happening each day of the month to get you into the holiday spirit.
Thanksgiving is a special time for family, friends, and celebration, so why not spend the holiday in the Empire State? There’s truly something for every type of traveler, whether you’re spending Thanksgiving solo on a self-care getaway to the Catskills, indulging in a delicious turkey dinner from a decadent dining room in Lake George, or admiring dazzling floats at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Gobble up this guide and plan an unforgettable Thanksgiving in New York State.
15 Holiday and Christmas Markets in New York State to Find the Gifts You Need
Oct 10, 2025 by I LOVE NY Staff
What do you buy for the person who has everything? Holiday markets are sprouting up across New York, where local art, specialty crafts, and gourmet food and drink make the gift-giving season a breeze. Here are the markets to hit before the season's over!…
History of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Oct 01, 2025 by I LOVE NY Staff
Since 1924, the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade has been the official kick-off to the holiday season. Each year, more than 50 million TV viewers joined by 3.5 million people in New York City attend or tune in for this beloved event through Manhattan. The parade takes place along a 2.5-mile route from West 77th Street & Central Park West to Macy's Herald Square and features larger-than-life balloons, fabulous floats, celebrity performances, and the one and only Santa Claus. Great views can be found along Central Park West from West 77th to West 61st Streets, and along 6th Avenue from West 59th to West 38th Streets.
Scary and Not-So-Scary Halloween Things in NY
Sep 30, 2025 by Ross D. Levi
As autumn brings a chill to the air, haunted houses, hayrides, and attractions all across New York can send a chill down your spine. Here are the freaky, creepy, and the not-too-scary things you need to check out for Halloween. …
Prost! Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in New York State
Sep 17, 2025 by Emma Frisbie
Get out the Lederhosen and Dirndl, it’s officially Oktoberfest season in New York State! Whether you’re here for the vibrant foliage, crisp fall brews, jumbo pretzels and brats, lively oompah bands, or all of the above, you’re in the right place. Soar through the mountains on a scenic skyride, raise a stein to the season, and revel in Bavarian-style fun at festivals in all corners of the state, from Long Island to Niagara Falls.