From delighting in wondrous festivals and parades to indulging in locally made goodies and getting a jump start on holiday shopping, November in New York is packed with events, thrills, and fun for all! Be sure to check out our full calendar to see all the exciting events happening across the Empire State this month and beyond. Photo Credit: @mitzgami on Instagram.

Great New York State Model Train Fair (Finger Lakes)

November 1-2

Exhibitor tables at the NYS Fairgrounds during the Great New York State Model Train Fair

Photo Credit: Central New York Chapter, National Railway Historical Society, Inc.

All aboard! The Great New York State Model Train Fair, held at the NYS Fairgrounds, is your ticket to a fun-filled weekend. Celebrating its 50th year, this is the largest model train show in New York State with 300 vendor tables and 25+ operating layouts. Check out new and used model trains, railroad memorabilia, exhibits, and more! Syracuse; Adults 16 & over: $15; children (15 and under): free. All tickets sold at the door, no advance sale is available.

New York City Marathon (NYC)

November 2

Runners participate in the TCS New York City Marathon with a view of the Empire State Building in the distance

Credit: Joe Buglewicz/NYC & Company

There’s nothing quite like marathon day in New York City. There are plenty of spots to cheer on runners along the 26.2-mile course that winds its way through the five boroughs. Join the fun in Brooklyn as runners make their way past the Brooklyn Academy of Music or feel the excitement in Manhattan, where various points along the route will put you near finger-licking good food like Dinosaur Bar-B-Que or explore-worthy attractions like the Museum of Modern Art. NYC; free to spectate.

Saratoga Restaurant Week (Capital-Saratoga)

November 3-9

Seared salmon with white asparagus puree, corn, and fava succotash with blistered tomatoes and scallion gremolata at Prime at Saratoga National

Credit: @prime_saratoganational on Instagram

Think restaurant week is just for locals? Think again! A trip to Saratoga Springs for Discover Saratoga’s Annual Restaurant Week is the port-poached amarena cherry on top of your November. Indulge in seven days of prix-fixe lunch and three-course dinners with unbeatable prices at participating restaurants. Saratoga Springs; Three-Course Dinner: $25 or $35 plus tax & tip | Lunch Specials: $15 plus tax & tip.

Adirondack Stampede Rodeo (Adirondacks)

November 7-8

Adirondack Stampede Rodeo

Photo Credit: visitlakegeorge.com

Giddyup for a good time at the Adirondack Stampede Rodeo! Roll into the Harding Mazzotti Arena and watch today’s top national and regional competitors face off in steer wrestling, barrel racing, bronco and bull riding, and more. Set to a professionally produced sound show, this is one of the state’s most unique experiences on offer this November. After all the rodeo action is done, head over to the Round-Up Party in Heritage Hall. Glens Falls; Prices start at $32.

LuminoCity Festival (Long Island)

Starting November 7

A prancing white unicorn with its wings spread as if it about to take flight at the LuminoCity Festival

Credit: @luminocityfestival on Instagram

Wonder and imagination come to life in an awe-inspiring display of art, light, and color at the LuminoCity Festival. Celebrate the magic of the winter season as you navigate this immersive glowing world full of wonder and dazzling light displays spread out across Eisenhower Park. You'll also find food trucks serving delicious bites, holiday gift shops perfect for festive shopping, and special theme nights packed with surprises. East Meadow; Timed ticketing; prices vary; children ages 3 and under get free admission.

Holiday Valley Beer and Wine Festival (Chautauqua-Allegheny)​

November 7-8

Get ready to raise your glass and indulge in the ultimate celebration of craft beverages. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of Holiday Valley as you sample drinks from the region’s best breweries and wineries, enjoy interactive sessions and tastings, and groove to the sounds of three live bands. It’s the perfect way to bid adieu to fall and get excited for a fun winter season. Make the most of your experience with a stay at Holiday Valley’s cozy lodges. Special packages include accommodation, festival tickets, and more, ensuring a seamless and stress-free getaway. Ellicottville; Ticket prices vary.

Glimmerglass Film Days (Central New York)

November 13-17

Glimmerglass Film Days

Mark your calendar for a long weekend of exceptional films, filmmaker talks, engaging conversations, delicious local food and drink, guided walks, and the opportunity to enjoy a Cooperstown fall. Films and events are held in a range of Cooperstown’s landmark locations including the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the Fenimore Art Museum. Between showings, enjoy wonderful restaurants and shops in and around Cooperstown, along with museums and galleries, parks and trails, and beautiful Otsego Lake. Stop by The Smithy to view the festival’s companion art exhibit. Cooperstown; Schedule and ticket prices to be announced.

NYC Cider Festival (New York City)

November 15

A person carries two cider tasting flights each bearing four plastic cups of various ciders at Bad Seed Cider Company in Highland, New York.

Join in on a fun-filled day of cider tasting and celebration at the NYC Cider Festival, happening at City Winery. Whether you're a cider connoisseur or cider curious, you’ll have a chance to sample and shop some of the best ciders made from New York apples. Meet the makers, explore unique flavors, and add on a curated cheese and cider pairing to let your taste buds soar. Manhattan; $40 general admission. This event is 21+.

New York Bartender Week (Multiple Regions)

November 17-23

A cocktail in a martini glass topped with a floral garnish

Photo courtesy of Klocke Estate

Calling all cocktail enthusiasts! Lift your spirits during New York State's Bartender Week. Celebrate the art of bartending and explore the unique flavors of the Empire State as bars from New York City to Rochester, Buffalo, and beyond showcase their rich culinary and drinks heritage with exclusive cocktails, each one a tribute to New York State. The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown, Shirt Factory in Medina, and Dice Versa in Rochester are just some of the many participating spots.

Festival of Slice (Greater Niagara)

November 21

Bring your appetite to the Niagara Falls Convention Center for this grand celebration of Western New York pizza and the culture of cup & char. You’ll get to sample slices from more than 20 pizzerias and local restaurants as they compete for top honors including People’s Choice and Best Cheese Slice. Opt for a beer, wine, and spirits tasting ticket to wash it all down. Niagara Falls, $10 presale, $25 beer, wine, and spirits tasting,  $18 at the door (limited availability), children under 16 get free admission.

Schenectady Holiday Parade (Capital-Saratoga)

November 22

Crowds watch as a fire truck decorated in string lights and a Christmas tree participates in the the Schenectady Holiday Parade

Gather up the family and head to the largest nighttime holiday parade in the Northeast in Downtown Schenectady! The Schenectady Holiday Parade is a dazzling holiday favorite featuring sparkling floats, glittering fire trucks, marching bands, dance troupes, and a special visit from Santa Claus. After the parade, be sure to take a stroll along State Street, grab a hot cup of cocoa and a bite to eat at delicious downtown restaurants, or get a head start on your holiday shopping on Jay Street. Schenectady; free to attend.

New York State Craft Brewers Festival (Finger Lakes)

November 22

A person holds up a glass with the words "Think NY Drink NY" at the Landmark Theatre in Syracuse during the New York State Craft Brewers Festival

Credit: New York State Brewers Association

Explore great beers from New York State’s finest breweries all under one roof! Enjoy samples from more than 45 breweries from KCBC to Ommegang at the historic Landmark Theatre in downtown Syracuse for the 12th annual New York State Craft Brewers Festival. Beer enthusiasts will discover new styles, flavors, and brands as they meet the masters behind the craft. Some of Syracuse’s best food vendors will also be on hand dishing out savory eats. Each ticket comes with a 7-ounce souvenir tasting glass. Syracuse; General Admission: $60 Advance (plus taxes & fees), Designated Driver: $15 Advance  (plus taxes & fees).

Holiday Fineries at the Wineries (Hudson Valley)

November 22-23 (plus two additional weekends in December)

wine glass filled with red wine being held against colorful fall trees

Credit: @morningtimelimetogether on Instagram

Break out your sparkling holiday attire or that ugly seasonal sweater and get your spirits up at the Shawangunk Wine Trail's annual holiday wine and cider tasting event! Brotherhood (America’s oldest winery), Robibero, Benmarl, Angry Orchard, and other participating venues will be decked out in festive decor as you sip, savor, and celebrate the season. There will be three itineraries to choose from for your self-guided sampling tour. Each taster ticket includes a tasting flight at each stop, souvenir glass, and holiday ornament from each location on your itinerary. Various starting locations; $45 (plus taxes/fees); $15 designated driver tickets (plus taxes/fees).

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (NYC)

November 27

Tom the Turkey float makes its way along the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Route

Credit: @mitzgami on Instagram

For millions, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on their TVs is a Turkey Day tradition, but if you want to experience the wonder in-person, head to Manhattan this November for its 99th installment. Look out for your favorite character balloons, wave to the elaborate floats, and enjoy the star-studded acts performing along the 2.5-mile route. To get a good viewing spot, it’s recommended that spectators arrive before 6:30 am. Wear warm clothes and bring a thermos of warm coffee or hot cocoa to help you stay warm. If you happen to be in the city the day before the parade, you can see the balloons being blown up near the American Museum of Natural History just off of Central Park West. Manhattan; Free to attend.

Peace, Love, and Lights (Catskills)

Starting November 28

An elaborate display with a home and pine trees evoking a greeting card lit up at the Peace, Love & Lights festival at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Credit: @bethelwoodscenter on Instagram

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, where everything becomes merry and bright for a special drive-thru holiday light show. Enjoy the magical glow from the comfort of your own car as the 1.7-mile route takes you through Snowflake Alley, Candy Cane Lane, Groovy Way, and other dazzling themed displays. Experience the wonderment on foot with special walk-thru nights on Mondays. Bethel; Tickets start at $27 per car.

Lite Up The Village (Adirondacks)

November 29

People walk among colorful, illuminated artificial trees in a snowy outdoor setting at night at Lite Up The Village in Lake George.

Get ready to kick off the holiday season in beautiful Lake George as the village shines merry and bright with over 7,000 lights. This free event features a block party with singalongs and more festive fun, a spectacular fireworks show, a lighted fire truck parade, and a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Lake George; free.

Syracuse Wine and Chocolate Festival (Finger Lakes)

November 29

The only thing better than wine...is wine and chocolate. Head to the NYS Fairgrounds for the Syracuse Wine and Chocolate Festival to sample pours from dozens of New York State’s wineries, cideries, and distilleries and eat your way through a fabulous selection of tasty nibbles and treats, chocolates, and sweets. You’ll also get some serious retail therapy browsing mini boutiques featuring purses, jewelry, clothing, and more. Attendees receive a souvenir wine glass and a special ticket to take a trip through the “Chocolate Bar." Syracuse; Ticket prices to be announced.

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