Thanksgiving in the Big Apple: A College Student’s Guide
For many college students, Thanksgiving is a time to return home and indulge in a comforting, home-cooked meal with family. However, if you find yourself staying on campus during the holiday, don’t fret! There are countless ways to make the holiday enjoyable and memorable right here in New York City. In fact, staying on campus during Thanksgiving might just lead to some of the best memories of your college life. This article will guide you through some of the most amazing opportunities to seize during the fall break in the Big Apple!
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade:
Start your Thanksgiving with a bang at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This isn’t just any parade - it’s an extraordinary spectacle that’s particularly special when experienced in person. As a college student in NYC during Thanksgiving, you have the unique advantage of witnessing this magical, festive, and fun event firsthand.
The parade is renowned for its star-studded performances and giant character balloons. From vibrant floats and colorful costumes to high school marching bands and cheerleaders, the parade is a visual feast. This is one spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a front-row spot - it fills up fast!
Go to a Friendsgiving:
Whether you’re in your dorm or your first apartment, Friendsgiving is a fantastic way to create some unforgettable college memories. Gather around a table filled with traditional Thanksgiving fare, or maybe pizza and soda, depending on your culinary skills. It’s a chance to share laughter, stories, and maybe even a few study tips. Friendsgiving offers an opportunity to create a sense of family with those who are in the same boat as you, away from home and navigating the exciting, sometimes challenging, waters of college life. So, go ahead and plan a Friendsgiving or attend one already taking place on campus. You’ll be building friendships that could last a lifetime and making memories that you’ll cherish long after graduation.
Rockefeller Tree Lighting:
Mark your calendars for the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Festival on November 30th! Imagine standing amidst a crowd of New Yorkers, all captivated by the breathtaking sight of a towering 79-foot Norway Spruce, adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights that stretch along nearly 5 miles of wire. This unforgettable experience doesn’t cost a dime. So, bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and join in this quintessential New York City tradition. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and create lasting college memories.
Ice Skating Magic:
There’s something magical about ice skating in New York City during the Thanksgiving holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a complete beginner, gliding on the ice against the backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline is an experience like no other. The famous rinks at Rockefeller Center and Central Park offer not just ice skating, but a whole winter wonderland experience. So, lace up your skates and hit the ice - it’s a quintessential New York City experience that’s not to be missed.
Feast on a Thanksgiving Pizza:
If you’re looking for a unique, college-esque, non-traditional meal to enjoy in your dorm or with friends, why not try Thanksgiving Pizza?
Stop by KRAVE IT in Queens. Here they serve an entire meal on a slice of pizza which includes turkey, sweet potatoes, roasted marshmallows, cornbread stuffing, gravy and honey cranberry sauce. Or opt for the pumpkin “pie” pizza at Emmy Squared. It may sound unusual at first, but it’s a fun and delicious twist on the traditional Thanksgiving meal that’s perfect for college students.
Unwind in Central Park:
Escape the college chaos with a leisurely stroll through Central Park. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, the park becomes a serene autumn haven. From the iconic Bethesda Fountain to the historic Belvedere Castle, there’s plenty to explore. So grab a cup of hot apple cider, wrap up warm, and immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect college student’s retreat from city life.
Volunteer Around NYC:
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and giving. Why not celebrate by volunteering around NYC? Serve meals at a local shelter, participate in a food drive, or organize a campus community event. It’s a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and truly embody the spirit of Thanksgiving. You might find that the experience is just as rewarding for you as it is for those you’re helping.
Remember, staying on campus for Thanksgiving doesn’t mean missing out on the holiday spirit. NYC has plenty to offer to make your Thanksgiving fun! Whether it’s feasting on a Thanksgiving pizza, finding tranquility in Central Park, or giving back to the community, there’s no shortage of ways to make this holiday memorable. Embrace the spirit of the season and create unforgettable college memories in the heart of the Big Apple. After all, Thanksgiving in NYC is an experience like no other!