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Things to Do with Family & Friends During Thanksgiving Week in NYC

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

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

  • Rubin Museum Tibetan Buddhist Shrine RoomExhibit 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 TrioTickets
    Jazz royalty brings timeless standards and soulful vocals.

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

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

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

  • Tammy McCain: Merry Christmas BabyTickets
    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 ItalyEvent info
    An inclusive, guided exploration of how design reflected and shaped history.

  • Virtual Vibrant Verbal Description Tour: The Changing Face of Fascist ItalyEvent 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 TerrariumsSaturday session | Sunday session
    Create miniature worlds inspired by nature’s beauty.

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

  • Gratitude WeekendEvent info
    Reflect on the season with workshops, walks, and wellness activities.

  • Gratitude Sound MeditationEvent info
    A restorative sound experience to center the spirit.

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

  • Garden Highlights WalkEvent 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.