1. NYC Marathon 

November 3

It’s that special time of year for the most ambitious runners among us: The New York City Marathon is back on Sunday, November 3. Neighborhoods throughout NYC have been preparing for weeks for the rush of more than 50,000 runners to race through the boroughs and over the finish line. It’s truly a community event for all of New York, with runners taking off from Staten Island and weaving their way through Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan, finishing in Central Park. If you’re not running, you can still get in on the fun by cheering on the athletes. Many parts of the city completely shut down for this event, so take advantage of the energy that takes over our streets and get in on the action.

3. NYBG Holiday Train Show

November 16-January 20

The New York Botanical Garden is a magical part of the Bronx all year round, but it truly comes alive during the holidays — decorated to the nines to evoke nostalgia, coziness, and cheer. For over 30 years, the gardens have honored the tradition of the Holiday Train Show, when artists come together to create NYC-themed holiday displays around G-scale model trains and trolleys. It’s like stepping into a New York City that’s been reimagined with trains soaring above and throughout the high-rise landmarks and buildings you’ve grown to love. Make it a festive family outing by day or grab friends and attend a 21+ night, when you can view the exhibit while enjoying specially curated bites and cocktails. If you’re a NYBG patron or member, tickets are free. Otherwise, children under 2 are free, tickets for children ages 2 to 12 are $15, and adult tickets are $35.

5. John Oliver & Seth Meyers at the Beacon Theatre 

November 24

John Oliver of Last Week Tonight and Seth Meyers of Late Night have extended their residency at the Beacon Theatre through March 2025 — but if there’s one best time to see them, it has to be election month. The two late-night TV hosts are best known for their political quips and commentary, and no matter what happens in the U.S. presidential race, November is guaranteed to give them plenty of new material. The double-headliner show has sold out before, so be sure to snag a seat while you still can.

7. The Nutcracker at New York City Ballet

November 29-January 4

The Land of the Sweets comes in many flavors throughout the five boroughs, but none is more iconic than George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at New York City Ballet. The beloved ballet runs throughout the holiday season, kicking off the day after Thanksgiving. One of the most complex performances in the Company’s repertoire, the show includes a cast of 150 characters – including students from the School of American Ballet – and requires over 60 musicians and 40 stagehands to bring to life. Costumes designed by famed costumier Barbara Karinska as well as lavish sets that include a one-ton Christmas tree, among other extraordinary feats and visual effects, draw the audience into a magical world that is not to be missed.