NYC Travel Guide 2026: Things to Do, Eat, Events & More

Shakespeare in the Park 2026
2026-06-01 08:00 - 2026-08-31 17:00 UTC | Central Park, Central Park, New York City, NY, United States
Public Theater’s free Delacorte classics under stars: Star-studded Bard, digital lottery tix—Central Park tradition since ’62. 2026 lineup TBA but expect magic; line up early or win lottery—picnics, fireflies, NYC’s ultimate summer rite.

The Feast of San Gennaro 2026 in New York City
2026-09-10 - 2026-09-20 | Little Italy, NY, United States
SoHo, Little Italy, & Chinatown Tour at HelloTickets.com
When is San Gennaro festival 2026?
Get ready for a mouthwatering, music-filled celebration of Italian culture in the heart of Manhattan! The 100th Annual San Gennaro Festival is coming to Little Italy, and it’s going to be an epic 11-day extravaganza.
100th Fest of San Gennaro 2026
Mark your calendars for September 10th to 20st, 2026! The festival will take over Mulberry Street between Houston and Canal Street, transforming the neighborhood into a vibrant Italian street party.
San Gennaro 2026 Dates
– Grand Procession: On Saturday, September 19, 2026, watch the spectacular parade starting at 2 PM from the Most Precious Blood Church. Witness the statue of San Gennaro carried through the historic streets of Little Italy
– Foodie Paradise: Indulge in authentic Italian delicacies like cannolis, zeppoles, and other mouth-watering treats that will transport you straight to Naples
Why San Gennaro Festival NYC 2026 ?
This beloved festival began in 1926 as a celebration by Neapolitan immigrants honoring their patron saint, San Gennaro. What started as a one-day block party has grown into a world-renowned 10-day event that celebrates Italian culture, community, and tradition.
What to Expect
– Colorful street decorations
– Live music and entertainment
– Over 300 vendors
– Traditional religious ceremonies
– Festive atmosphere that makes everyone feel a little Italian!
Whether you’re a food lover, culture enthusiast, or just looking for a fantastic New York experience, the San Gennaro Festival 2026 is a must-visit event that promises fun for everyone.
Buon divertimento! (Have a good time!)
SoHo, Little Italy, & Chinatown Tour at HelloTickets.com

Oktoberfest in Central Park 2026 (pending confirmation)
2026-09-19 08:00 - 17:00 | Central Park, Central Park, New York City, NY, United States
Oktoberfest in Central Park’s SummerStage
Celebrate the spirit of Bavaria without leaving Manhattan at Oktoberfest in Central Park’s SummerStage.
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Event snapshot
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: Gates open at 1:00 pm
Location: SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, Central Park, New York City
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What to expect
Authentic German beer, pretzels, and classic festival dishes served in the open-air setting of Central Park’s iconic green oasis.
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Live traditional music, dancing, and the national Stein Holding (Masskrugstemmen) Championship bringing over 200 years of Oktoberfest tradition to NYC.
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Why it’s special
Central Park’s SummerStage turns into the city’s biggest German-style beer garden, surrounded by trees, skyline views, and a festive crowd.
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Perfect for friends, families, and German-culture lovers looking to keep the celebration going after the German-American Steuben Parade on Fifth Avenue.
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Columbus Day Parade 2026 in New York City
2026-10-10 - 2026-10-12 | Manhattan, Manhattan, New York City, United States
Get Ready for the Columbus Day Parade 2026 in NYC! 🇮🇹🎉
Mark your calendars for Monday, October 12th Columbus Day Parade 2026 is coming to Fifth Avenue! This incredible celebration of Italian-American culture that spans the whole weekend from Sat 10th to Mon 12th, is a must-see New York City event that attracts over a million spectators.
Parade Highlights:
– Date: October 12th, 2026
– Time: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
– Location: Fifth Avenue (44th Street to 72nd Street)
What to Expect:
– 35,000 participants marching with incredible energy
– Colorful floats representing Italian heritage
– Marching bands filling the streets with music
– Broadway performers and dancers
– Classic Italian cars
– Festive atmosphere with tricolor flags waving
Pro Tips:
– Arrive early to get the best viewing spot
– Wear comfortable shoes
– Bring your camera
– Consider grabbing lunch at a nearby Italian restaurant like Carmine’s after the parade
Whether you’re Italian-American or just love a great NYC celebration, the Columbus Day Parade promises a fantastic day of culture, music, and community spirit! Don’t miss this iconic New York tradition!

Open House New York Weekend 2026Free & Ticketed Architecture Tours in NYC | Dates & Tickets
2026-10-16 - 2026-10-19 | Manhattan, Manhattan, New York City, United States
Get Ready to Explore NYC: OHNY Weekend 2026!
Discover hidden NYC gems during Open House New York Weekend 2026 (Oct 16-19). Free guided tours of historic sites like the Domino Sugar Factory penthouse. Tickets from $6—book Oct 8! Explore architecture, culture & more.
What Makes OHNY Weekend So Special?
Here are some truly unique sites that promise extraordinary experiences:
Architectural and Industrial Gems
– New York Sign Museum: Discover the fascinating world of vintage storefront signs in this normally appointment-only museum. Limited to just 15 people at a time, it’s a rare chance to see rescued signs from iconic NYC businesses.
– Barone Steel Fabricators: For industrial enthusiasts, this Sunset Park site offers a guided tour of large-scale steel fabrication. Note: Visitors must be 18 or older, and safety glasses are provided.
– The Refinery at Domino Penthouse: Explore the stunning glass dome atop the renovated Domino Sugar Factory, with floor-to-ceiling views overlooking the city.

Open House New York Weekend 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Open House New York Weekend?
Open House New York (OHNY) Weekend is the city’s largest architecture and design event. Every October, hundreds of buildings, projects, and sites — many normally closed to the public — open their doors for free or low-cost guided tours, talks, and experiences. It’s like getting a backstage pass to NYC’s architectural treasures!

When is Open House New York 2026?
OHNY Weekend 2026 takes place from Thursday, October 16 to Sunday, October 19, 2026. Some ticketed events start as early as Thursday evening, while the majority of free and reservation-required tours happen Friday through Sunday.

How do I get tickets for Open House New York 2026?
– Free sites: Many are first-come, first-served (lines can be long!).
– Sites requiring advance reservation: Book starting Wednesday, October 8, 2026 at 11:00 AM ET via the official OHNY website.
– Paid ticketed experiences (starting at $6): Available the same day and usually sell out fast.
Pro tip: Set a reminder and log in a few minutes early — popular tours like the Domino Sugar Factory penthouse disappear in seconds!

Are there any completely free tours?
Yes! Dozens of sites are 100% free and don’t require advance tickets (e.g., self-guided interiors, outdoor projects, and select talks). Check the official program in early October for the full list.

What are the must-see sites for 2026?
Some of the most anticipated openings this year include:

Refinery at Domino – Penthouse & Terrace (ticketed)
New York Sign Museum (first-ever OHNY appearance)
Henry Street Settlement historic buildings
Sunset Park industrial gems (concrete plants, recycling facilities)
Lower East Side walking tours

Is Open House New York family-friendly?
Absolutely! Many sites welcome kids (check age restrictions on ticketed tours). Free outdoor events and neighborhood walks are especially great for families.

Can I volunteer or become an OHNY member?
Yes! Volunteers get early access to some reservations and a free one-year membership. Sign up to volunteer here (official OHNY link).

I missed tickets — any chance of getting in?
Some sites release additional tickets a day or two before, and standby lines often work for popular locations. Follow @ohny on Instagram and X for real-time updates.

Where can I see other cool architecture in NYC year-round?
Check out our guides to permanent gems like the Woolworth Building, The Oculus, or Summit One Vanderbilt.

Greenwich Village Halloween Parade 2026
2026-10-31 19:00 - 22:30 | greenwich village, Greenwich Village, Manhattan, NYC, NY, United States
Get ready for the most spectacular Halloween celebration in the world – the Village Halloween Parade in New York City! This isn’t just any parade; it’s a magical, mind-blowing extravaganza that transforms Greenwich Village into a wonderland of creativity and imagination.
What Makes This Parade Legendary?
The Village Halloween Parade is more than just a procession – it’s a massive, vibrant celebration of Halloween like no other. Started in 1973 by Ralph Lee, a local mask maker and puppeteer, this parade has grown from a small neighborhood walk to the world’s largest Halloween parade. Each year, it attracts an incredible 2 million spectators and features 50,000 costumed participants who bring the streets of Manhattan to life.
Event Details for 2025
– Date: Sábado, October 31, 2025
– Time: 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
– Route: 6th Avenue from Canal Street to 15th Street
– Cost: FREE to watch and participate!
What to Expect
Imagine a parade that’s part carnival, part art show, and pure magic! You’ll see:
– Hundreds of giant, animated puppets
– Over 50 bands from around the world
– Dancers in incredible costumes
– Thousands of New Yorkers transforming into fantastical characters
Who Can Join?
The best part? Anyone in a costume can participate! Just show up in your most creative Halloween outfit at Canal Street and 6th Avenue between 6:30 and 9 PM. No tickets, no registration – just pure Halloween spirit!
Pro Tip: If you can’t make it in person, the parade will be broadcast live on Spectrum News NY1 at 8 PM, so you won’t miss a moment of the spectacle.
This isn’t just a parade – it’s a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the pure joy of Halloween. Whether you’re a New Yorker or a visitor, the Village Halloween Parade is an experience you’ll never forget!

2026 TCS New York City Marathon
2026-11-01 | 5 Boroughts, 5 Boroughts, New York City, NY, United States
The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon is set to be an exciting event for runners and spectators alike, scheduled for November 1, 2026. This iconic race will continue the tradition of showcasing the vibrant streets of New York City, attracting thousands of participants from around the world.
Registration Details
– Application Period: The specific dates for registration will be announced at the end of 2025. A lottery system will be used for entry, with guaranteed spots available for New York Road Runners (NYRR) members who complete nine qualifying races and volunteer at an event in 2025.
– Fundraising Opportunities: Runners can secure guaranteed entries by participating in fundraising efforts with official charity partners, which will also be announced closer to the event date.
The marathon is renowned not only for its challenging course but also for the electric atmosphere created by supporters along the route. Participants will traverse all five boroughs, culminating in a finish at Central Park. The NYC Marathon is often described as one of the most exhilarating experiences in the running community, with a unique blend of camaraderie and competition.

Veteran’s Day Parade NYC 2026
2026-11-11 | Manhattan, Manhattan, New York City, United States
Veterans Day Parade in New York City 2026: A Day to Honor Heroes
On November 11, 2026, New York City will host its annual Veterans Day Parade, one of the biggest celebrations of its kind in the United States. This beloved event brings thousands of people to Fifth Avenue in Manhattan to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. military.
The parade kicks off at 12:30 p.m., starting at 26th Street and marching north to 48th Street. Expect to see over 20,000 participants, including veterans from all eras, active-duty service members, marching bands, and colorful floats. More than 150 vehicles will roll through the streets, adding to the festive and patriotic vibe. The United War Veterans Council, which organizes the event, makes sure it’s a heartfelt tribute every year.
Before the parade begins, a special wreath-laying ceremony happens at 10:55 a.m. in Madison Square Park at the Eternal Light Flagstaff. It’s a quiet moment to remember and give thanks. Then, the energy picks up as the parade takes over Fifth Avenue, with crowds cheering and waving flags.
This year’s parade will be the 106th in NYC’s history, a tradition that started back in 1919 after World War I. Whether you’re there in person or watching from home, it’s a great way to say “thank you” to veterans. You can catch it live on WABC-TV or online through Military.com if you can’t make it to Manhattan.
So, mark your calendar for November 11, 2026! It’s a day full of pride, gratitude, and community spirit in the heart of New York City.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation for 2026
2026-11-25 08:00 - 17:00
Watch 16 giant balloons inflate the night before the parade.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation for 2026 takes place on the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, November 25, 2026, from 12 PM to 6 PM at the American Museum of Natural History area on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. This free event lets visitors watch the iconic giant helium balloons being filled and prepared for the big parade the next day. It offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the balloon inflation process, complete with crowds of excited spectators, event staff guidance, and security by NYPD. Early arrival is recommended for easier viewing and to see the balloons partially inflated, which is especially exciting for kids. Note that the event can get very crowded, strollers and refreshments are not advised, and dressing warmly is essential due to the outdoor setting in late November. This unique pre-parade celebration is a festive and visual highlight leading up to the 2026 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade spectacle in NYC.
Looking for Macy’s balloon inflation 2026 tickets?
It’s a FREE EVENT.
image by abc7ny

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2026
2026-11-26 08:30 - 12:00 | Manhattan, Manhattan, New York City, United States
The 100th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (2026)
This iconic parade features giant balloons and floats, celebrating its 100th year. It starts at 8:30 AM at Central Park West.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished American tradition that has captivated audiences since its inception in 1924. Held annually in New York City, this iconic event marks the beginning of the holiday season and showcases a spectacular array of floats, balloons, and performances. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what makes the parade special and how to make the most of your experience.
A Brief History
Originally called the Macy’s Christmas Parade, the event was designed to promote holiday shopping. The first parade featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo and was a significant spectacle even then. In 1927, it was officially moved to Thanksgiving Day, aligning it with the start of the Christmas shopping season. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant celebration that attracts millions both in person and via television broadcasts.
Parade Highlights
Balloons and Floats
The parade is renowned for its **giant character balloons**, which have become a hallmark of the event. Iconic figures like Snoopy and Pikachu float majestically above the crowds. Each year introduces new floats that reflect contemporary culture and themes, ensuring that the parade remains fresh and engaging.
Performances
In addition to the balloons, the parade features performances from Broadway shows, musical acts, and marching bands from across the country. This blend of entertainment creates a festive atmosphere that appeals to viewers of all ages.
Route and Viewing
The parade traditionally starts at 77th Street and Central Park West, making its way down to Macy’s Herald Square. For those attending in person, prime viewing spots are along Central Park West and 6th Avenue. Arriving early is essential as crowds gather quickly.
Tips for Attending
1. Dress Warmly: The parade takes place in late November, so be prepared for chilly weather.
2. Plan Your Arrival: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot; some areas fill up hours before the start.
3. Consider Hotel Packages: Some hotels along the route offer special packages that include parade views.
4. Public Transportation: Use public transit to avoid traffic; however, be aware that some subway stations may close during the event.
Watching from Home
For those who prefer to enjoy the spectacle from home, NBC has been broadcasting the event since 1953. The parade typically runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST on Thanksgiving Day, featuring live performances and commentary.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and tradition that brings people together each year. Whether you’re watching from home or braving the cold in person, this iconic parade offers something for everyone, making it a highlight of the holiday season.

Annual Lunar New Year Parade & Festival 2027
2027-02-06 13:00 - 17:00 | Chinatown, Mott St, New York City, United States
Chinese New Year 2027 NYC – Year of the Goat:
Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown, which will take place on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027 at 1 p.m.
Get ready to welcome the Year of the Goat in style because the Chinese New Year Parade in NYC 2027 is going to be a spectacular celebration! Mark your calendars for February 16, 2027, when the streets of Chinatown will come alive with vibrant colors, lively sounds, and a whole lot of fun!
Parade Extravaganza: The 29th Annual Lunar New Year Parade & Festival kicks off at 1 PM from Mott Street. Expect a dazzling display of giant dragons, traditional lion dances, and performances that will leave you breathless. The parade will wind through the heart of Chinatown, ending at Sara D. Roosevelt Park around 3:30 PM, where the festivities continue with cultural performances and firecrackers to ring in the new year!.
This isn’t just any parade; it’s a full-blown festival! With over 6,000 participants, you’ll see everything from acrobatic feats to stunning costumes. Plus, there are more than 200 restaurants in the area ready to serve up delicious Chinese cuisine. Think dumplings, noodles, and sweet treats that are sure to delight your taste buds!.
Bring the kids along for family-friendly activities and performances that showcase the rich tapestry of Asian cultures. From arts and crafts to storytelling sessions, there’s something for everyone!.
So grab your red envelopes (a must for good luck!), put on your festive attire, and get ready to join in on one of NYC’s most colorful celebrations. Whether you’re dancing in the streets or savoring delicious food from local vendors, Lunar New Year in New York is an experience you won’t want to miss!
