Holiday events and cultural experiences happening from December 20 through December 31, 2025

The week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve offers a wonderful opportunity to explore New York City with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting guests, reconnecting with loved ones, or visiting from out of town, this festive stretch of days is filled with inspiring exhibitions, joyful musical performances, and special programs across the city’s most celebrated cultural institutions.

We’ve curated a selection of standout events taking place from Saturday, December 20 through Wednesday, December 31, 2025, making it easier to find memorable experiences that capture the magic of the season.

Brooklyn Museum

Gallery Tour: A Few of Our Favorite Things

A curator-led tour featuring highlights across the museum’s collection and current exhibitions.
Pricing: Included with Museum Admission
Available on:

Saturday, December 20,
Sunday, December 21,
Wednesday, December 24,
Friday, December 26,
Saturday, December 27,
Sunday, December 28,
Wednesday, December 31

Pop-Up Talks: Monet and Venice

A short, engaging talk offering new insights into Monet’s Venetian works and the inspiration behind them.
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Pricing: Included with Museum Admission

xhibitions On View

Explore a rich lineup of exhibitions, from contemporary photography to historic milestones and bold abstraction.
Pricing: Museum Admission
Learn more: https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/exhibitions

  • Everyday Rebellions: Collection Conversations

  • Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens

  • Monet and Venice

  • Oliver Jeffers: Life at Sea

  • Brooklyn Abstraction: Four Artists, Four Walls

  • Breaking the Mold: Brooklyn Museum at 200

  • Christian Marclay: Doors

Caramoor

An Amarcord Christmas

An elegant holiday concert by the acclaimed vocal ensemble Amarcord, filling the season with luminous harmonies and timeless music.
Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 8:00 PM
Pricing: Ticketed

Holiday Rosen House Tours

Step inside the historic Rosen House and explore its festive seasonal decorations and rich history.
Multiple dates throughout Christmas Week
Pricing: Ticketed

Dates:

Holiday Tea Musicale

A refined holiday tea accompanied by live chamber music inside the enchanting Rosen House.
Select dates
Pricing: Ticketed

Dizzy’s Club

Tammy McCann: Merry Christmas Baby

Vocalist Tammy McCann brings soulful artistry to holiday classics in this intimate jazz club setting overlooking Central Park.
Thursday, December 18 and Friday, December 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM
Pricing: Ticketed

Jazz at Lincoln Center

Webop Family Jazz Party: A Holiday Jazz Jam

A festive and interactive introduction to jazz for families, featuring joyful singing, dancing, and live performance.
Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM
Pricing: Ticketed

  •  

Big Band Holidays

A cherished annual tradition with swinging holiday arrangements performed by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and guest vocalists.
Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21, 2025
Pricing: Ticketed

The New York Historical

Designing Women Market

A curated shopping experience highlighting women-led brands and makers. While the main event peaks earlier in the season, selected artists continue to be featured through December.
Pricing: Free to browse

Exhibitions On View

A robust lineup of exhibitions spanning history, art, culture, and design, offering something for every interest during the holiday week.
Pricing: Museum Admission
Learn more: https://www.nyhistory.org/exhibitions

  • The Gay Harlem Renaissance

  • Declaring the Revolution

  • Stirring the Melting Pot

  • New York, New York: The Elie and Sarah Hirschfeld Collection

  • The New York Sari

  • Turn Every Page: Inside the Robert A. Caro Archive

  • Gallery of Tiffany Lamps

  • Meet the Presidents and the Oval Office

  • Audubon’s Birds of America

  • Objects Tell Stories

  • Fashion Forward: The Bill Cunningham Archive

  • A Shot in the Arm: New York City Gets Vaccinated

  • Erie Canal 200th Anniversary

  • The Guggenheim Fellowship at 100

  • Creating Kosher Chop Suey

  • Circulating Control: Women’s Book Battles, 1880–1930

Poster House

The Future Was Then: The Changing Face of Fascist Italy

An evocative look at graphic design and political identity in early 20th-century Italy.
Pricing: Museum Admission

Blazing a Trail: Dorothy Waugh’s National Park Posters

A vibrant celebration of one artist’s iconic poster designs that helped define the visual identity of America’s national parks.
Pricing: Museum Admission

Wave Hill

Winter Solstice Pub Night

Celebrate the winter solstice with seasonal drinks, live music, and views of the Hudson River and Palisades.
Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 5:30 PM
Pricing: Ticketed

Holiday Tea at Wave Hill House

A festive afternoon tea served in the historic Wave Hill House, offering a restorative holiday experience.
Friday, December 26, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Pricing: Ticketed

Discover the best cultural events and holiday activities happening across the Bronx this December

December brings a special kind of energy to the Bronx. The borough buzzes with festive lights, family celebrations, art openings, community gatherings, and magical seasonal traditions. Whether you’re planning a winter outing with friends, looking for a family-friendly weekend event, or hoping to explore something new close to home, the Bronx offers a rich lineup of programs across its museums, gardens, cultural centers, and parks.

 

Below, find our curated guide to some of the most exciting events taking place throughout the Bronx this December.

The Bronx Museum of the Arts

First Friday: Art, Music, Dancing & More

December 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM
A lively evening at the museum featuring art, music, and dancing. Enjoy free admission and a community-centered celebration to kick off the month. FREE

Family Day: Winter Wonderland 2025

December 6, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM
A festive afternoon for families with hands-on art activities and winter-inspired fun. FREE

Book Club: The Sisterhood (Session 1)

December 7, 2025 at 12:00 PM
Join the museum’s book club for a thoughtful discussion of The Sisterhood: How a Network of Black Women Writers Changed American Culture.

Bronx River Alliance

Planting at Bronx River Forest

December 2, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Help restore native habitats along the Bronx River with this hands-on volunteer planting session. FREE

Also on December 11 and December 16.

Bronx Zoo

Holiday Lights

November 21, 2025 to January 4, 2026. Select evenings.
The Bronx Zoo glows with immersive light displays, lantern sculptures, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities. A beloved holiday tradition perfect for all ages.

Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture

Spanish Harlem Orchestra: Salsa Navidad

December 6, 2025 at 8:00 PM
The Grammy-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra returns for a high-energy Salsa Navidad performance filled with rhythm, joy, and holiday spirit.

Holiday Parranda with Papo Vázquez

December 21, 2025. Time TBD
A festive celebration blending jazz, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and Puerto Rican holiday traditions led by trombonist and composer Papo Vázquez.

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

The Nutcracker

December 13–14, 2025. Multiple performances.
The Westchester Ballet Company presents a classic holiday favorite featuring elegant choreography, beautiful costumes, and enchanting storytelling.

The New York Botanical Garden

Holiday Train Show

November 15, 2025 to January 11, 2026
A winter favorite featuring model trains winding through detailed replicas of New York landmarks made from natural materials, all inside the stunning Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

Holiday Train Nights

Select evenings in December
The after-dark version of the Train Show offers illuminated pathways, festive music, and seasonal cocktails for a magical nighttime experience.

Wave Hill

Winter Haven Opening Weekend

November 30 to December 1, 2025. Times vary.
Celebrate the start of Wave Hill’s winter season with special programs, garden displays, and cozy activities overlooking the Hudson River.

Winter Haven

December 1 to 31, 2025. Times vary.
Wave Hill transforms into a serene winter retreat with creative workshops, nature walks, and seasonal programming throughout December.

Winter Haven Artisan Market

December 14–15, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Shop handmade gifts and meet local artisans during this festive annual market.

Game Night Social

December 19, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
A fun and relaxed evening of board games, snacks, and conversation in Wave Hill’s cozy indoor spaces.

Your guide to the best cultural events in NYC this holiday season

December in New York City is one of the most magical times of the year. The city comes alive with holiday lights, festive performances, inspiring exhibitions, and special programs that invite you to explore, learn, and celebrate. Whether you are planning a family outing, looking for a unique date idea, or browsing for holiday activities, our cultural partners offer some of the most exciting things to do across the five boroughs.

These beloved institutions feature exceptional public programming, and many also offer members-only benefits that make a thoughtful and meaningful holiday gift. If you are searching for something special for the culture lover in your life, consider giving the Gift of Culture and treat them to a full year of exploration and inspiration.

Below is your curated list of the top events happening across our partner locations this December.

Apollo Theater Events

Black Genius Talks: I’ll Make Me A World

December 4, 2025 at 6:00 PM
A dynamic conversation that celebrates Black cultural creativity and innovation. This talk explores how artists and visionaries continue to shape and influence the world.

Apollo Comedy Club

December 11, 2025 at 10:00 PM
Enjoy a night of sharp, energetic stand-up from emerging and established comedians on one of the most iconic stages in New York.

Du’Bois A’Keen

December 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Experience the soulful artistry of Du’Bois A’Keen in this intimate performance filled with emotion, storytelling, and powerful musical expression.

Ayana George Jackson

December 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Ayana George Jackson brings her soaring vocals and contemporary gospel sound to the Apollo in a concert filled with heart and inspiration.

Finding North

December 14, 2025 at 3:00 PM
A moving theatrical experience inspired by true stories of the Underground Railroad. This production weaves history and performance into a powerful narrative journey.

BAM Events

Les Arts Florissants

December 10 to 14, 2025. Times vary.
The celebrated Baroque ensemble returns to BAM with an elegant program that brings early music to life through masterful instrumentation and beautifully expressive vocals.

Brooklyn Museum Events

Poetry Workshops: Monet and Venice

December 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Write and reflect in a creative workshop inspired by Monet’s Venetian works. Participants explore themes of perception, light, and place through guided poetry exercises.

A Close Look (Ages 65+): Monet and Venice

December 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM
This relaxed, in-depth gallery experience invites older adults to engage closely with Monet’s paintings and explore their artistic context and techniques.

Beyond Keïta’s Frame: Ernest Cole

December 13, 2025 at 6:00 PM
A compelling film program that examines the groundbreaking work of photographer Ernest Cole and his documentation of life under apartheid.

Caramoor Events

Rosanne Cash Benefit Concert

December 6, 2025 at 8:00 PM
Join the legendary Rosanne Cash for an intimate benefit concert that supports Caramoor’s arts and education programs. Her soulful voice and storytelling promise a memorable evening.

Dizzy's Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center Events

Tammy McCain: Merry Christmas Baby

December 18 and 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM
Tammy McCain brings warmth and holiday spirit to the stage with soulful vocals and classic Christmas favorites in the cozy setting of Dizzy’s Club.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Events

Webop Family Jazz Party: A Holiday Jazz Jam

December 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM
A joyful, interactive musical experience designed for young children and their families. Sing, dance, and explore the sounds of jazz together.

Big Band Holidays

December 20 and 21, 2025. Times vary.
A cherished holiday tradition featuring the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and guest vocalists performing festive classics with a swinging twist.

The New York Historical Events

Live at the Museum: Raga Music

December 5, 2025 at 6:30 PM
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of traditional Indian classical music performed live in an intimate museum setting.

Live at the Museum: 1920s Jazz

December 12, 2025 at 6:30 PM
Enjoy an evening of 1920s jazz standards performed by exceptional musicians who bring the energy and glamour of the Jazz Age to life.

Live at the Museum: 1920s Jazz Encore

December 19, 2025 at 6:30 PM
This encore performance offers another chance to experience the lively rhythms and rich sounds of the roaring twenties.

Poster House Events

First Friday

December 5, 2025. Free admission all day.
Explore Poster House for free during this monthly celebration that includes themed tours, hands-on activities, and extended hours.

Third Sunday Always Free

December 21, 2025. Free admission all day.
Enjoy complimentary access to the museum and experience its rotating exhibitions at your own pace.

Wave Hill Events

Winter Haven Opening Weekend

November 30 to December 1, 2025. Times vary.
Celebrate the start of the winter season with special activities, festive displays, and family-friendly moments throughout the gardens.

Winter Haven

December 1 to 31, 2025. Times vary.
Wave Hill transforms into a winter wonderland with creative workshops, nature programs, and peaceful garden walks all month long.

Winter Haven Artisan Market

December 14 and 15, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Shop a curated selection of handcrafted goods and unique gifts from local artisans in a warm, festive environment.

Game Night Social

December 19, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
A relaxed evening of games, snacks, and community. This social gathering offers a cozy escape during the busy holiday season.

Give the Gift of Culture

Share the joy of discovery with a gift that lasts all year. Explore the Gift of Culture and treat someone to enriching programs, unforgettable performances, and meaningful experiences across New York City.

At Great Performances, we’re honored to partner with the Jacques Pépin Foundation and Skylight at The Refinery to produce a milestone event in New York City’s culinary calendar — Skylight Celebrates Jacques Pépin’s 90/90 campaign. Bringing together more than twenty celebrated chefs, this tasting experience at Brooklyn’s Domino Refinery combines artistry, community, and purpose in true GP style.

Collaborating with Partners to Create Unforgettable Events

We love when foundations and companies (especially our venue partners!) come to us to collaborate on something we excel in doing: tasting events that bring together celebrated chefs to create truly memorable experiences for guests.

This December, we’re proud to partner with the Jacques Pépin Foundation and Skylight at The Refinery to bring their first-ever New York tasting event to life as part of the Foundation’s 90/90 campaign, celebrating Jacques Pépin’s 90th birthday and his lifelong commitment to culinary education.

Crafting a One-of-a-Kind Experience

“Each event, whether it’s a brand-new festival or a yearly favorite, has its own set of intricacies that make it so much fun,” said Senior Event Director Ali Rea-Baum. “From working with each chef to make sure they have everything they need at their station, to mapping out power and ensuring guest flow makes sense — every event and venue is different, which is what makes this work so exciting.”

That passion for precision is at the heart of how we approach every collaboration. Our team thrives on the logistics of creativity — coordinating with dozens of chefs, vendors, and partners to ensure every detail works seamlessly. It’s where our event production expertise and love for hospitality intersect, transforming a blank canvas into an extraordinary experience.

Aligned in Mission and Spirit

What makes this event especially meaningful is how closely it aligns with our own values and partners. The Jacques Pépin Foundation’s focus on providing culinary and life skills training to individuals facing employment barriers resonates deeply with our partnership with The Sylvia Center, which also empowers communities through food education.

That shared sense of purpose makes this collaboration feel less like a production and more like a celebration of everything we stand for: mentorship, opportunity, and community.

A Stunning Setting for a Special Night

And then, there’s the venue. Working at Skylight at The Refinery is a dream — an amazing space perched atop the old Domino Factory in Williamsburg, with breathtaking waterfront views of New York City. The penthouse’s vast, open layout provides the perfect backdrop for more than twenty tasting stations, where chefs from across the city will share dishes inspired by Jacques Pépin’s iconic repertoire.

Leading the charge is Senior Event Director Ali Rea-Baum, who has built an impressive portfolio of high-profile culinary events across New York City. From Food Network’s NYCWFF and Great Performances’ own Latke Festival to Taste of the Lower East Side, The Great Nosh, and Bar Convent Brooklyn, Ali brings unmatched creativity and precision to every project. Her ability to unite chefs, partners, and guests around extraordinary food experiences is what makes these events truly shine.

It’s the kind of event that reminds us why we love what we do: bringing people together through food, creativity, and purpose.

From venue partnerships like Skylight at The Refinery to shared missions with organizations such as the Jacques Pépin Foundation and The Sylvia Center, Great Performances continues to craft events that celebrate food as a force for good. As we help bring Jacques Pépin’s 90/90 celebration to life, we’re reminded that every detail — every dish, every connection — tells a story about the people and passions behind it.

Proceeds from the evening benefit the Jacques Pépin Foundation To learn more about the event, and purchase tickets visit: here.

Jump to Recipe

About Chefs’ Choir®

A chorus of culinary voices from Great Performances—our chefs step out of the kitchen to share recipes, stories, and inspiration. Learn more →

Chefs Anastassia Batsoula and Mike Deuel, with their one-year-old sous-chef Mila, share their low-and-slow Thanksgiving tradition in this month’s Chefs’ Choir(SM). Their slow-roasted turkey with apples, citrus, and root vegetables pairs beautifully with a Russian-inspired beet and walnut salad — a heartfelt celebration of family, flavor, and the joy of cooking together.

As the holiday season approaches, our kitchen fills with the smells of roasting vegetables, citrus, and herbs — and the happy clatter of our one-year-old, Mila, “helping” from her high chair. Thanksgiving looks a little different these days, but the heart of it remains the same: taking time to slow down, share food, and make memories around the table.

Professionally, we’ve always loved the ingredients that mark this season — earthy root vegetables, crisp apples, sweet squash, and tart cranberries. At home, we reach for the same palette but with more simplicity and warmth. The key to both is balance: rich and savory, sweet and bright, rustic and refined.

And when it comes to the centerpiece — the turkey — our best secret is no secret at all: cook it low and slow. Forget the frantic basting and high-heat rush. A gentle roast allows the bird to stay moist, lets the flavors of fruits and vegetables infuse the meat, and fills your home with that comforting Thanksgiving aroma all day long.

Recipe: Slow-Roasted Turkey with Apples, Citrus & Root Vegetables

by Chefs Anastassia Batsoula-Deuel and Mike Deuel

Serves 8-10

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 5-6 hours (plus resting)

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), patted dry
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 apples, quartered
  • 1 orange, quartered
  • 1 bulb fennel, sliced thick
  • 3 carrots, cut into large pieces
  • 3 parsnips, cut into large pieces
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 6 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • 1 cup chicken or turkey stock

Procedure

  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F.
  2. Season the turkey generously inside and out with salt and pepper. Rub the skin with butter and olive oil.
  3. Create the bed: In a large roasting pan, layer apples, orange, fennel, carrots, parsnips, onion, garlic, and herbs. Pour in the stock.
  4. Place the turkey on top of the vegetables, breast side up.
  5. Roast uncovered for about 20 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F in the breast and 170°F in the thigh.
  6. Rest the bird for at least 30–45 minutes before carving. The temperature will continue to rise slightly as it rests.

The result: tender, juicy meat with subtle sweetness from the fruit and deep flavor from the caramelized vegetables — plus an effortless pan gravy from the drippings.

Bonus Recipe: Russian-Inspired Beet & Walnut Salad (Свекольный Салат с Орехами)

Every family has a heritage dish that finds its way onto the table, no matter the holiday. For us, a nod to Russian cuisine connects generations — a bright, earthy salad that brings color and contrast to the Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium beets, roasted or boiled until tender
  • ½ cup walnuts, lightly toasted and chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Procedure

  1. Peel and grate the cooked beets once cooled.
  2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fold in the grated beets and chopped walnuts.
  4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with dill or parsley.

It’s vibrant, slightly sweet, and earthy — a refreshing balance next to the richness of turkey and stuffing. Mila loves the color (and occasionally the mess), and it’s a perfect way to add a touch of Russian comfort to a very American feast.

Our Thanksgiving table is a mix of tradition and invention — a slow-roasted turkey beside a Russian beet salad, a giggling toddler beside two tired but happy chefs. The food tells the story of where we’ve been, who we love, and how we grow together — one slow-cooked bite at a time.

More Recipes by Chefs Anastassia Batsoula-Deuel and Mike Deuel

This past October 18–20, 2025, Great Performances once again joined Open House New York Weekend, the city-wide festival that invites the public to explore New York’s most fascinating spaces. Now in our second year of participating, we were thrilled to open our South Bronx home and offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we unleash joy through genuine hospitality.

Open House New York (OHNY) is an organization close to Liz Neumark’s heart — as a native New Yorker, entrepreneur, and advocate for civic engagement, she deeply values OHNY’s mission to foster openness, accessibility, and pride in our city. For our team, it’s a meaningful opportunity to welcome our community into the kitchens, offices, and creative spaces where so much of the Great Performances magic begins.

Last weekend, Great Performances once again had the great honor of participating in Open House New York. We welcomed 75 lucky guests into our home in the South Bronx, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at where so much of the magic happens.

The tour wound its way through all three floors of our commissary — from our bustling kitchens to our walk-ins and offices — each space offering a glimpse into the heart of what we do every day. Along the way, guests had plenty of questions, and our team was ready with answers! Some were fun (“How much sugar does the pastry kitchen go through?” — over 150 pounds per day!), while others were more reflective (“How many guests have you served since opening?” — more than 10 million and counting).

Before heading off to their next Open House New York stop, visitors were treated to one of our freshly baked chocolate chip cookies — a small taste of Great Performances to take on the road.

Participating in Open House New York is always such a joy. Each year, we’re reminded how meaningful it is to open our doors and share the energy, creativity, and care that fuel our work behind the curtain. It’s not just a tour; it’s a chance to connect with our community, celebrate craftsmanship, and show the dedication that goes into every event we create.

If you’d like to experience Great Performances firsthand, we encourage you to sign up for the Open House New York newsletter and keep an eye out next September for a full list of participating sites. It’s one of the city’s most inspiring weekends — a celebration of openness, accessibility, and civic pride in the place we’re so proud to call home.

Open House New York is more than a weekend of tours — it’s a celebration of the people, places, and ideas that shape the city we love. Through programs like these, OHNY builds bridges between communities and inspires a deeper appreciation for New York’s vibrant cultural and creative landscape.

To learn more or support OHNY’s mission, visit ohny.org — where you can become a member, volunteer, or donate to help keep New York open, accessible, and inspiring for all.

Explore what’s happening this month across the Bronx—from outdoor concerts and art festivals to family paddles and open mics. Scroll by venue to find your favorite neighborhood spots or discover somewhere new.

Community Paddle at Concrete Plant Park

Date: Sat, Nov 1, 2025 • 11:00 AM–3:00 PM

Location: Concrete Plant Park, 1370 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY

Description: Free first-come paddling with waves every hour; brief safety orientation provided. Family-friendly.


Bronx Green-Up's Pumpkin Smash 2025

Date: Wed, Nov 5, 2025 • 3:30–5:30 PM

Location: Lehman College Quad, 250 Bedford Park Blvd W, Bronx, NY 10468

Description: Give your pumpkins a second life—smash and compost them for local parks and community gardens.


First Friday at The Bronx Museum

Date: Fri, Nov 7, 2025 • 6:00–9:00 PM

Location: The Bronx Museum of the Arts

Description: Free after-hours art and music with DJ BlkShine & HeadCount; all ages welcome (RSVP optional).


THE THREE KINGS & THEIR QUEENS

Date: Sat, Nov 8, 2025 • 8:00 PM

Location: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

Description: A high-energy celebration from producer David Maldonado—classic hits and powerhouse performances.


Foliage Frolic Weekend

Date: Sat–Sun, Nov 8–9, 2025

Location: Wave Hill

Description: Peak-color weekend with themed walks, crafts, and kid-friendly activities across the gardens.


Beeswax Candle Making

Date: Sat–Sun, Nov 8–9, 2025 • 12:00–4:00 PM

Location: Wave Hill, Mark Twain Room

Description: Drop-in workshop to roll and decorate autumn-themed beeswax candles; space is limited.


Bronx Brewery Trivia Night

Date: Thu, Nov 13, 2025 • 7:00–9:00 PM

Location: The Bronx Brewery – South Bronx, 856 E 136th St, Bronx, NY 10454

Description: Weekly Thursday trivia—grab a team, a pint, and bragging rights. (Check venue calendar for any schedule changes.)


Jose Alberto “El Canario” Concert

Date: Sat, Nov 22, 2025 • 5:00 PM

Location: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

Description: “Los 50 de El Canario” — a 50th-anniversary salsa celebration from the multi-Grammy winner.


The Pelham Bay Super Hike

Date: Sat, Nov 22, 2025 • 11:00 AM

Location: Pelham Bay Park

Description: Urban Park Rangers lead a long trek through forests and coastal habitats; registration opens Nov 10.


Hip-Hop Turkey Trot 2025

Date: Thu, Nov 27, 2025 • 9:00 AM

Location: Soundview Park, Bronx, NY

Description: 5K Thanksgiving run celebrating the Bronx’s hip-hop roots with a course through Soundview Park on the Bronx River Greenway.


Thanksgiving week in New York City is filled with festive fun, cultural gems, and cozy experiences for every mood and age group. Whether you’re hosting family or exploring the city with visiting friends, there’s something for everyone — from art and live music to design, mindfulness, and nature walks. Here’s your guide to some of the best ways to celebrate gratitude, creativity, and connection this Thanksgiving week.

Brooklyn Museum

A cornerstone of New York’s cultural scene, the Brooklyn Museum offers art, history, and storytelling across eras and mediums. This Thanksgiving week, explore inspiring exhibitions, join guided gallery tours, or enjoy a special film screening celebrating creativity and cultural identity.

Featured Events & Exhibits:

  • Gallery Tours: A Few of Our Favorite Things

    • 📅 November 22–23, 26, 28–30 | 1–2pm

    • View details

    • Take a guided look at beloved works from the museum’s collection — perfect for first-time visitors or longtime fans.

  • Beyond Keita’s Frame: Finye (The Wind)

    • 📅 November 23 | 2–4pm

    • Film info

    • A moving film celebrating creativity and cultural identity, expanding on the themes in Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens.

  • Monet and Venice — Exhibit info
    Step into the shimmering world of Claude Monet and experience his luminous depictions of Venice.

  • Breaking the Mold: Brooklyn Museum at 200 — Exhibit info
    A celebratory exhibition highlighting two centuries of creativity, innovation, and artistic dialogue.

  • Rubin Museum Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room — Exhibit info
    A serene, contemplative space offering a moment of calm amid the holiday rush.

These are just a few highlights from the museum’s extensive lineup this season — visit the Brooklyn Museum website to explore the full schedule of exhibitions, films, and tours.

Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center

For a soulful evening in the city, head to Dizzy’s Club, where the energy of live jazz sets the tone for celebration. From legendary performers to rising stars, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of Thanksgiving festivities.

Performances:

  • Mary Stallings Featuring The Aaron Goldberg Trio — Tickets
    Jazz royalty brings timeless standards and soulful vocals.

  • Future of Jazz Orchestra — Tickets
    Discover tomorrow’s greats in this vibrant showcase of young talent.

  • David Amram 95th Birthday Celebration — Tickets
    Celebrate a music legend in a night of tributes and collaboration.

  • Herlin Riley and Friends — Tickets | More dates
    New Orleans rhythm meets New York swing — pure joy on stage.

  • Tammy McCain: Merry Christmas Baby — Tickets
    A jazzy, heartfelt kickoff to the holiday season.

Poster House

At Poster House, design lovers will find fascinating insights into art, propaganda, and visual storytelling. Thanksgiving week features accessible, in-depth tours of one of their most powerful exhibitions — available both in-person and virtually.

Events:

  • In-Person Vibrant Verbal Description Tour: The Changing Face of Fascist Italy — Event info
    An inclusive, guided exploration of how design reflected and shaped history.

  • Virtual Vibrant Verbal Description Tour: The Changing Face of Fascist Italy — Event info
    Join the conversation online from the comfort of home.

Wave Hill

Nestled in the Bronx overlooking the Hudson, Wave Hill offers nature, art, and mindfulness in perfect harmony. This Thanksgiving week, the gardens come alive with gratitude-themed activities and creative family fun.

Events:

  • Family Art Project: Tiny Terrariums — Saturday session | Sunday session
    Create miniature worlds inspired by nature’s beauty.

  • Tree as Medium: Ursula Endlicher, sTo Len, Sam Van Aken — Event info
    A multidisciplinary exploration of trees as creative collaborators.

  • Gratitude Weekend — Event info
    Reflect on the season with workshops, walks, and wellness activities.

  • Gratitude Sound Meditation — Event info
    A restorative sound experience to center the spirit.

  • Family Art Project: Grateful for Trees — Event info
    Craft nature-inspired art celebrating gratitude and growth.

  • Garden Highlights Walk — Event info
    Guided tours of seasonal plantings and scenic views.

Keep Exploring

Whether you’re in the mood for world-class art, live jazz, or peaceful garden walks, New York City offers endless ways to celebrate Thanksgiving week with meaning and joy. Explore, connect, and make memories with the people who matter most.

Exciting Events Around New York – November 2025

As autumn deepens and the air turns crisp, Great Performances continues to celebrate the rich cultural landscape of New York City. From inspiring concerts and art exhibitions to family-friendly performances and intimate dinners, our partner venues offer countless ways to embrace the beauty of November. As the exclusive caterer for many of these institutions, we’re proud to share some of the events that remind us why this season—and this city—are so special.

Apollo Theater

  • Apollo Comedy Club – November 6, 2025
    Enjoy an evening of laughter at the Apollo’s signature stand-up series featuring emerging and established comedians in an intimate setting.
  • Hang Time
    Join host Bob Sumner for a night of conversation, music, and storytelling celebrating the Apollo’s deep cultural roots.

Asia Society

  • Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat in Concert: Deep Roots, Fresh Leaves
    Experience the enchanting harmonies of Iranian sisters Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat as they blend Persian classical traditions with contemporary sounds in a moving performance about defiance, hope, and sisterhood. (See also: Music Workshop with Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat: Songs of Defiance, Hope and Sisterhood the day before.)
  • Elena Moon Park and Friends: Rabbit Days and Dumplings
    Beloved children’s musician Elena Moon Park returns with a joyful celebration of folk songs from East and Southeast Asia. Families can extend the experience with the Rhythm and Song Making with Elena Moon Park workshop the previous day.

BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music)

  • Sing for Hope Family Jam
    A lively, interactive concert where families can sing and dance together, celebrating music’s power to connect and uplift communities.
  • Best of BAMkids Film Festival: Ages 6–8
    Enjoy a curated selection of short films from around the world designed to spark imagination and laughter in young audiences.
  • FOR REAL
    An inventive stage performance that blends theater, movement, and storytelling to explore authenticity and the search for truth in modern life.

Brooklyn Museum

Caramoor

  • Christie Dashiell presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center
    A mesmerizing evening of jazz vocals as Christie Dashiell brings her soulful sound to Caramoor in a performance co-presented with Jazz at Lincoln Center.
  • Poiesis Quartet
    The award-winning string quartet performs an exquisite program that bridges classical repertoire with bold, contemporary works.
  • The Arcadian Wild
    Blending bluegrass, folk, and chamber music, this Nashville-based trio delivers intricate harmonies and heartfelt storytelling in an intimate concert setting.
  • Rosanne Cash Benefit Concert
    Legendary singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash takes the stage for a special benefit performance supporting Caramoor’s music and education programs.

Jazz at Lincoln Center

  • Cyro Baptista at 75: A Banquet for the Spirits
    Celebrate Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista’s 75th birthday with an exuberant performance blending jazz, world rhythms, and improvisation.
  • Steve Miller
    Rock icon Steve Miller joins Jazz at Lincoln Center for a unique concert fusing blues, rock, and jazz influences in a rare live appearance.
  • Journey Through Jazz: The Mighty Negro Spirituals
    The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis explores the deep roots and enduring influence of the spiritual in jazz and American music.

Poster House

Wave Hill

  • Fall Terrace Party
    Celebrate the season surrounded by autumn color at Wave Hill’s annual fall gathering featuring live music, cocktails, and scenic views of the Hudson River.
  • Fiery Fall Sunset Yoga
    Unwind and reconnect with nature during an outdoor yoga session timed perfectly with the vivid colors of sunset over the Palisades.

From soulful concerts and interactive family jams to art tours and culinary pop-ups, November at our partner venues offers something for everyone. Great Performances is honored to collaborate with these institutions to make every event—and every season—an experience to savor.