New York City Festivals and Events
Parades, street festivals, sports and holiday traditions that return every year.
New York's calendar is full all year, but a handful of events define the seasons. Parades are a city tradition: St. Patrick's Day on Fifth Avenue, the Pride March in June, the West Indian American Day Carnival in Brooklyn on Labor Day, the Village Halloween Parade and, above all, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Summer adds free outdoor theater, concerts in the parks and Fourth of July fireworks.
The holiday season, from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day, is the busiest time to visit, with the Rockefeller Center tree, store window displays, skating rinks and holiday markets in Bryant Park and Union Square, ending with the ball drop in Times Square. Hotel rates rise accordingly, so book early.
Annual Festivals and Events
One of the oldest parades in the country, first marched in 1762, with bands and marchers from 44th to 79th Street.
A film festival founded after 9/11 to help revive downtown, now with music, television and talks.
A costumed art parade along Surf Avenue and the boardwalk that opens the summer season.
One of the largest Pride marches in the world, passing the Stonewall National Monument.
The country's largest Independence Day fireworks show, launched from barges.
Free outdoor productions by the Public Theater, with tickets given out on the day.
The final Grand Slam of the year, at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
A huge Caribbean carnival parade with steel bands, costumes and food stalls.
Two beams of light rise from near the World Trade Center site on the night of the anniversary.
A street festival with sausage and pepper stands, a religious procession and cannoli.
A night parade of giant puppets and costumed marchers; anyone in costume can join.
The world's largest marathon, from Staten Island to Central Park.
Giant balloons, floats and marching bands; the balloon inflation the evening before is popular too.
The tree stays lit through early January above the skating rink.
The ball drop at midnight, watched by crowds who arrive hours early.
Dates move from year to year — confirm on the organizer’s site before you plan around an event.
Official Event Calendars
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Get free trip quotes »New York City Events — FAQ
Where is the best place to watch the Thanksgiving parade?
Along Central Park West in the 60s and 70s, where crowds are thinner than near Herald Square. Arrive by early morning, and dress warmly.
Can I watch the New Year's Eve ball drop in person?
Yes, but viewing pens fill by mid-afternoon, there are no bathrooms and you cannot leave and return. Many visitors prefer a restaurant party or the fireworks in Central Park or Brooklyn.