Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Since 1924, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has festively ushered in the holiday season with marching bands, celebrity performances and colorful floats. Go in person to admire the famous balloons of beloved cartoon characters, like Garfield and Snoopy, as they float down Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. The parade is held on Thanksgiving morning each year. Spectators should arrive early, because more than 2.5 million people come out to see the event.
Perhaps the most famous Christmas tree in America, each year a gleaming celebration ensues when the impressive Christmas tree is illuminated at New York City's Rockefeller Center. Brilliantly lit by 30,000 LED lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star, the tree's lighting ceremony draws thousands of people and is broadcast internationally. Traditionally, the lighting ceremony occurs in the last week of November.
Also at Rockefeller Center is the nation's most iconic ice skating rink, and a wintertime visit to New York wouldn't be complete without taking a few relaxed laps around it. The rink is open throughout November, and if visitors arrive at the end of the month, they may be able to skate in front of the famous sparkling Rockefeller Christmas tree. The rink is open daily; and skate rentals, lessons and group rates are available. After skating, grab a bite to eat or warm up with some hot chocolate at the Rock Center Café.
At the very end of November, visitors can enjoy the Festival of Trees in Long Island, which is a benefit for United Cerebral Palsy. Held at the Cradle of Aviation Museum, the event features an abundance of creatively and ornately decorated trees as well as activities for children and holiday vendors who will sell wreaths, gingerbread houses and other seasonal crafts.