New York in November 2026: Activities and Weather

Visiting New York in November 2026? Discover what to expect weather-wise, plus the top events, activities, and sports to catch this festive month.

New York in November 2026: Activities and Weather

November is a special time in New York. The month is marked by Thanksgiving, one of the most important holidays in the United States. This celebration kicks off the year-end holiday season, making November a pivotal, festive month packed with events. Here’s everything you need to see and do in New York in November.

What’s the weather like in New York in November?

  • November marks the start of winter, with temperatures typically ranging from 4°C (39°F) in the morning to 12°C (54°F) at the warmest part of the afternoon. These are averages, and temperatures can vary. Generally, though, temperatures stay above freezing.
  • November is also typically a dry month, with less rain than summer. It’s actually one of the driest months of the year.

What are the 5 main events in New York in November 2026?

1/ The New York Marathon

  • The New York Marathon is by far the most iconic marathon in the world. The New York Marathon traditionally takes place on the first Sunday of November. The race starts on Staten Island, at the foot of the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge. Runners then head through Brooklyn and Queens before entering Manhattan. The course makes a detour through the Bronx before finishing in Manhattan. The finish line is in Central Park, with Midtown’s skyscrapers as the backdrop.
  • The New York Marathon also means an electric atmosphere all along the route. Spectators wave signs and many dress up to cheer on the runners. It’s a festive, good-natured celebration.
  • The next New York Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2026. If you want to participate, make sure you meet the registration deadlines. For more information, see our guide on how to run the New York Marathon.

2/ Veteran’s Day

  • Like many countries, the United States commemorates November 11, 1918, the date of the World War I armistice. This federal holiday is called Veteran’s Day in the US, honoring military veterans.
  • A parade brings together more than 20,000 active-duty military personnel and veterans in New York. It takes place at 12:30 pm along Fifth Avenue, between 26th Street and 45th Street.

3/ Thanksgiving

  • Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday with roots in the early British settlers. Americans gather with family for a meal centered on turkey. The holiday takes on special significance in New York with a massive parade featuring giant balloons. The Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the biggest events of the year in New York.
  • Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 26, 2026.

4/ Black Friday

  • Black Friday is a day of unprecedented sales across the United States. This “Black Friday” happens every year the day after Thanksgiving. Stores offer their best deals of the year, with discounts that can be extraordinary.
  • Black Friday falls on Friday, November 27, 2026. Sales typically continue through the weekend. The following Monday, called Cyber Monday, features special deals on electronics.

5/ The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

  • The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is New York’s most iconic holiday tree every year. This tradition dates back to 1929 and continues annually. The massive tree is dressed in thousands of lights and topped with a crystal star. Visit it at night when it glows brilliantly.
  • The lighting ceremony takes place on December 2, 2026. After that, the tree is illuminated every evening through early January 2027.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. (Photo Michael Vadon)

What activities can you do in New York in November 2026?

Christmas markets open their doors

Cruises in New York Harbor

  • Before winter sets in, there’s still time to explore New York Bay by boat. Several options and vessels are available. Visit our section on cruises in New York.

Guided tours

  • November’s weather makes it ideal for exploring New York on guided tours. Our tour program covers all of New York’s neighborhoods, letting you discover both the major landmarks and lesser-known gems.
  • Also consider a guided tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This tour shows you the museum’s main treasures. It’s also a chance to explore in comfort indoors. You can spend as much time as you like in the museum after the tour ends.
Metropolitan Museum of Art New York
The facade of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. (Photo Marek R.)

What sports can you watch in New York in November 2026?

Basketball, American football, and ice hockey seasons are in full swing in November. If you’re in New York, don’t miss the chance to experience a game surrounded by enthusiastic New York crowds.

NBA in New York

American football in New York

  • The American football season continues at a measured pace. New York’s two NFL teams each play only 2 games in November. Choose which team to support: the New York Giants or the New York Jets. Both teams share MetLife Stadium, located in New Jersey.
  • Book your tickets as early as possible if you want to see an American football game. Games are rare, the season is short, yet interest in the sport is enormous in the United States.

Ice hockey in New York

  • The ice hockey season is now in full swing. Hockey is a major sport in North America, unlike in some other parts of the world. NHL games, from the North American ice hockey league, draw huge crowds. The spectacle is guaranteed, especially with so many Canadian teams in the league.
  • New York has two NHL teams: the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden and the New York Islanders at UBS Arena in Queens. Add the New Jersey Devils from New Jersey.
New York Rangers goaltender during an NHL game
The New York Rangers goaltender tends the net. (Photo Jenn G.)