NEWSLETTER
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. Credit: @mitzgami on Instagram.
Adirondack Stampede Rodeo (Adirondacks)
November 1-2
Giddyup for a good time at the Adirondack Stampede Rodeo! Roll into the Cool Insuring 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 $23.
Great New York State Model Train Fair (Finger Lakes)
November 2-3
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 49th year, this is the largest model train show in New York State with 300 vendor tables and 30 operating layouts. Check out new and used model trains, railroad memorabilia, exhibits, and more! Syracuse; Adults 16 & over: $10; children (15 and under): free. All tickets sold at the door, no advance sale is available.
New York City Marathon (NYC)
November 3
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 4-10
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.
LuminoCity Festival (Long Island)
November 8-January 5
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 days packed with surprises. East Meadow; Timed ticketing; prices vary.
Herkimer County Arts & Crafts Fair (Central New York)
November 9
For those who enjoy hunting for treasure, or prefer to gift a unique work of art to loved ones at the holidays, the 45th Herkimer County Arts & Crafts Fair is a must. Shop over 100 vendor stalls on the Herkimer College Campus to find handmade pottery and baskets that are both art and for everyday use, as well as original paintings, gourmet treats, and jewelry. Your attendance also benefits the community—all proceeds from entry fees go toward the college’s tuition scholarship program. Herkimer; $5 entry fee. Children five years old and younger get in free.
Holiday Valley Beer and Wine Festival (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
November 9
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 34 of the region’s best breweries and wineries, enjoy interactive sessions and tastings, and groove to the sounds of Buffalo’s own XOXO Pop Band. 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.
NYC Cider Festival (New York City)
November 16
Join in on a fun-filled day of cider tasting and celebration at the NYC Cider Festival, held at Location05 in Hudson Yards. Whether you're a cider connoisseur or cider curious, you’ll have a chance to sample and shop some of the best ciders New York has to offer, meet the makers, and enjoy some live music and yummy food options. Manhattan; Early bird prices start at $35; designated driver tickets are $5. This event is 21+.
New York Bartender Week (Multiple Regions)
November 18-24
Photo courtesy of Klocke Estate
Calling all cocktail enthusiasts! Lift your spirits during New York State's first-ever Bartender Week. Celebrate the art of bartending and explore the unique flavors of the Empire State as bars from New York City to Albany, Buffalo, and beyond showcase their rich culinary and drinks heritage with exclusive cocktails, each one a tribute to New York State. Emerald Cocktail Kitchen in Syracuse, Shaker and Vine in Schenectady, and Klocke Estate in Hudson are just some of the many participating spots.
Schenectady Holiday Parade (Capital-Saratoga)
November 23
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 23
Credit: New York State Brewers Association
Explore all of the great beers from New York State’s finest breweries all under one roof! Drink beer on the very same stage that musical legends like Bob Dylan and Tony Bennet performed as more than 45 breweries from far and wide gather at the historic Landmark Theatre in downtown Syracuse for the 11th 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; Tickets $69.40; $19.30 for designated drivers.
Light Up the Night Santa Parade and Fireworks (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
November 23
Kick off the holiday season in Ogdensburg. This crowd favorite features a full line-up of colorfully-lit floats, a spectacular firework display, delicious food and drinks, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more. Make sure to pop by the Holiday Crafts Show before the parade to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. Ogdensburg, free.
Holiday Fineries at the Wineries (Hudson Valley)
November 23-24 (plus two additional weekends in December)
Credit: @morningtimelimetogether on Instagram
Break out your sparkling holiday attire or that ugly seasonal sweater and get ready for the Shawangunk Wine Trail's ultimate holiday wine and cider tasting event! Brotherhood (America’s oldest winery), Robibero, Benmarl, Angry Orchard, and other participating wineries and cideries will be decked out for the season as you sip, savor, and celebrate the season. Choose from three itineraries that group three to four wineries and cideries together with short travel time in mind and then get to tasting on your self-guided tour! Each taster ticket includes a tasting flight at each stop, souvenir tasting glass, a handmade grapevine wreath, and special ornament from each location on your itinerary. Various starting locations; Tickets are $40 (plus taxes/fees) through October 31, after which they increase to $50 (plus taxes/fees); designated driver tickets are free.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (NYC)
November 28
Credit: @mitzgami on Instagram
For millions, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a Turkey Day tradition, but if you want to experience the wonder in-person, head to Manhattan this November for its 98th anniversary. Look out for the Dora the Explorer and Paw Patrol’s Marshall balloons as they make their big parade debut, 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 29
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. You can sweeten the drive with a box of fresh-baked goodies available as an add-on when purchasing tickets. Experience the wonderment on foot with special walk-thru nights on Mondays. Bethel; Tickets start at $32 per car.
Jingle Falls USA (Greater Niagara)
November 29-December 1
Photo Courtesy of Jingle Falls USA
Celebrate the winter season in Niagara Falls during Jingle Falls USA! This three-day weekend event is jam-packed with fun events that are sure to get you and your family in the holiday spirit. Shop for goodies at the markers market, take a horse and carriage ride, have breakfast with Santa, and more as the spirit of the season takes over Old Falls Street. Niagara Falls; Some registration and fees apply.
Syracuse Wine and Chocolate Festival (Finger Lakes)
November 30
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; $35 plus fees; Designated driver tickets are $20 plus fees.
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