Fall and winter activities in the city
Upcoming fall and winter activities and events in the city as the holiday season approaches.
Photography by Safa Al-Naser/The Barnard Bulletin
November 15, 2024
As colder weather approaches, check out this list of fun activities around New York City to make the darker days a little brighter.
Central Park
You may have noticed that the leaves have begun to turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red — fall is truly here. One of the best ways to admire the foliage is to walk in Central Park. Plus, no matter the season, the park is a great place to people-watch.
With colder days come fun winter activities like ice skating, and there are plenty of rinks in the city to go to. For example, the Wollman Rink in Central Park opened on October 26 and is a super fun activity to do with friends. Ticket prices range from $15-$38 depending on demand, plus an additional $12 for skate rentals. Although I have never skated at the Wollman Rink, it’s on my bucket list for this winter.
If you happen to be in the city for Thanksgiving Break, another great feature of the park is its view of the annual Macy’s Day Parade, which occurs on November 28 this year. You can see some of the floats from parts of the park, especially if you find a high point on the rocks or if you are close to the 5th Avenue side. My favorite float is always the Snoopy one, but you can also spot other popular characters, such as minions and Kung Fu Panda. There are performances and celebrities to be spotted as well. I’ve enjoyed all the times I’ve gone, and one year, I was even lucky enough to spot Jimmy Fallon.
Union Square and Columbus Circle
Although the Spooky season has come to a close, the winter and holiday season in New York City is quickly approaching. With that in mind, the winter markets throughout the city are worth checking out. The Union Square Holiday Market will open on November 16, and the Columbus Circle Market will open on November 28. The Union Square and Columbus Circle Markets have similar vendors and shopping opportunities. Last year, I went to the market at Union Square, there were more stores to visit and foods to taste than I could visit! There is something for everyone, from fresh stroopwafels to fried pickles. Keep in mind that all these markets do get crowded quickly, but the sheer number of people adds to the festive atmosphere.
Bryant Park
Likewise, the Bryant Park Winter Village opened on October 25, and visitors can enjoy ice skating, food vendors — I highly recommend the raclette sandwiches and the free hot chocolate samples — and shop for knick-knacks. “My roommate and I shared a raclette sandwich, and it’s honestly one of the best things I’ve ever eaten! Bryant Park's Winter Village is perfect for holiday shopping, too — I managed to get all my gifts for family and friends there,” said Mila Noshrivani (BC ‘27) about her experience. “Overall, it’s such a festive treat; everyone should experience it at least once during the holiday season!”
Additionally, ice skating tickets in Bryant Park range from $15-$50, depending on the date. Its location is ideal if you want to check out the vendors before or after skating. “The Max Brenner hot chocolate is so yummy, and the truffle butter I got was good but expensive,” said Lexa Hulbert (BC ‘27). The ice skating rink and the ability to sit and enjoy your food and treats set Bryant Park apart from the rest.
Rockefeller Center
Of course, you can’t forget about the rink at Rockefeller Center, which opened on October 12.
With the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree in the background, ice skating there feels exactly like a scene from a movie. The price per ticket ranges from $21-$114, plus an additional charge for rentals. Avoid going during the peak holiday season and on the weekends, when the rink is likely to be the busiest.
Sometimes, being in the city can be overwhelming, as you feel the need to do everything and be everywhere all at once. However, regardless of what you want to do, whether that be ice skating, sampling hot chocolate, taste testing the food at the markets, or staying in, NYC has it all!
