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Are you looking for the greatest weekend adventures in NYC? Whether you’re a local looking to explore with friends and family or just looking for some solo weekend fun, get ready for the thrill. With the holiday season, New York City changes into a wonderful wonderland with an attractive charm. Even between Christmas and New Year’s, the city comes alive, offering an abundance of exciting weekend activities and events. Imagine dazzling lights, joyous celebrations, and a city that never sleeps—that is what NYC promises.
Prepare yourself for an amazing weekend of experiences as we explore the bustling city. Whether you are a first-time tourist or a native New Yorker, NYC’s vibrant atmosphere ensures a weekend full of happiness, discovery, and recollections that will last a lifetime. Let’s get right into the action and make this NYC weekend something to remember! Here are our top recommendations for things to do in New York City this weekend that will leave you with lasting memories.
Watch 'Twas the Night Before at Madison Square Garden
Get ready for a magical treat with Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show, ‘Twas the Night Before. They took inspiration from a famous poem called “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” to create a special story. The show is all about a young girl who, on Christmas Eve, discovers a magical world filled with incredible acrobatics and dazzling performances. The director, James Hadley, brings to life this festive tale of love and joy, designed especially for families.
Lasting for 85 minutes without an intermission, the show features amazing acrobatics, delightful characters, and a soundtrack filled with holiday classics given a special Cirque du Soleil twist. James Hadley, with 25 years of experience in circus productions and live theatre, is the mastermind behind this charming performance. This heartwarming show teaches us about the joys of generosity and friendship, making it a perfect treat for families during the holiday season. If you find yourself in NYC, make sure not to miss out on this incredible experience. ‘Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil promises to be a joyous event that will undoubtedly leave smiles on everyone’s faces.
| Show Name | 'Twas the Night Before |
|---|---|
| Duration | Until December 7-28, 2023 |
| Location | The Theater at Madison Square Garden 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001, United States |
| Website | cirquedusoleil.com |
| Tickets | ticketmaster.com |
Join the Festive Excitement at Santa's Secret
Santa’s Secret is a festive variety event hidden away in Hudson Yards, perfect for those ready for holiday fun. This adult-only (18+) event is ticketed and features eight unique installations, a retro bar serving festive cocktails, and a cheeky cabaret show featuring ballet and burlesque, with a twist involving a special kind of pole. You may come across tough lumberjacks, gingerbread girls, and even living snow globes as you go around. The excitement doesn’t end there. When you discover Santa’s speakeasy, be ready for a festive variety show including eye-popping acts, live music from a band, and Christmas cocktails! Sing-alongs, laughter, and a cheerful buzz are on the menu.
The festivities last roughly 2 hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to indulge in the holiday adventures. However, keep in mind that this content is intended for mature audiences. To enter, all participants must be 18 or older and 21 or older with a valid ID to participate in the spirited beverages. While this might not be the ideal spot for a family outing, it’s perfect for a night out with your buddies, especially those who are 18 and older. So, gather your friends for a uniquely thrilling experience this weekend.
| Event Name | Santa's Secret |
|---|---|
| Duration | Nov 17th - Dec 31st, 2023 |
| Location | Hudson Yards Public Square and Gardens 350 11th Avenue & Hudson Blvd East, New York, NY 10001 |
| Website | vossevents.com |
| Tickets | tixr.com/groups/santassecret |
Enjoy Karaoke Night at Baby Grand
Looking for a super fun thing to do in NYC this weekend? How about going to Baby Grand for a cool karaoke night? It’s at 29 W 17th St and is known as one of the best places for karaoke in the city. You and your friends can warm up your singing voices and have a blast in this awesome venue. Baby Grand’s new, bigger place in Union Square has three private rooms, a big area for events, and a main stage where you can feel like a pop star. Whether you want to be the centre of attention on the main stage or have a more private party in a room with your friends, it’s going to be a really special time.
The people at Baby Grand suggest booking a private room for your group to make sure you have your own space to sing your favourite songs. But if you’re feeling spontaneous, you can still show off your singing skills on the main stage for just $2 per song. Remember, you can bring your own snacks to the room, but you’ll need to get drinks from the bar. What makes Baby Grand awesome is not just its great new spot but also how it has something for everyone. They even have karaoke nights that are kid-friendly, perfect if you’re hanging out with your family. And if you’re up for a different kind of music excitement, they also have live band karaoke. Whether you’re hanging out with friends or having a family get-together, Baby Grand has something for everyone. So, get ready to sing your heart out and have an absolutely amazing time at Baby Grand in Union Square.
| Name | Baby Grand |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Sun-Wed: 5 pm - 2 am | Thurs - Sat: 5 pm - 3 am |
| Location | 29 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011, United States |
| Website | babygrandnyc.com |
| Booking | babygrandnyc.com/booking |
Theater & Musicals- Merrily We Roll Along
If you love musicals and want a fantastic weekend in NYC, you can’t miss “Merrily We Roll Along.” The show is about 2 and a half hours long with a short break, and it’s great for people aged 10 and up. The director, Maria Friedman, did an awesome job with the challenges in the musical. The story is different because it goes backward in time. It talks about growing up and losing friendships. The characters, especially Franklin Shepard played by Jonathan Groff, show how they change over time. Even though the story can be a bit sad, it’s made better by the great cast.
Friedman’s version is fantastic, especially with Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez. They make the characters interesting, even when they’re not very nice at first. As the story goes backward, we see how the characters become better. Groff’s character, Frank, really loves music, and you can feel how sad it is when he stops making it. Radcliffe’s character is full of energy, and Mendez shows a lot of emotion in her love story. The rest of the cast, the set design by Soutra Gilmour, and how well the actors sing make the show even better. If you’re a fan of musicals and want an awesome NYC weekend, make sure to see “Merrily We Roll Along.” It’s a good time to see “Merrily We Roll Along” on Broadway, with its interesting characters and cool storytelling.
| Show Name | Merrily We Roll Along |
|---|---|
| Duration | Until July 7, 2024 |
| Location | Hudson Theatre - 141 W 44th St, New York |
| Website | merrilyonbroadway.com |
| Tickets | thehudsonbroadway.com |
Astra Lumina Celestial Night Walk
Astra Lumina, the incredible event that wowed everyone in LA, is now in New York. This unique and beautiful event will take place at Queens Botanical Garden, turning the whole place into a magical wonderland with bright lights, cosmic scenes, and cool music. Created by the talented folks at Moment Factory, it’s the 19th Lumina Night Walk, making it extra special. You can take mysterious walks through the garden, guided by shiny lights, surrounded by amazing cosmic scenes, and all while listening to spacey tunes.
Bring your favourite people along and join in the fun as you stroll under the stars, making memories that will stay with you forever. The magic of projections, lights, and cosmic tunes transforms the garden into a special pathway that connects you to the stars. So, if you’re planning your weekend in NYC, make sure to add Astra Lumina to your list. This event is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to indulge in the magic, beauty, and incredible awesomeness of the universe. Overall, it’s going to be one of the coolest things you can do in NYC this weekend.
| Event Name | Astra Lumina |
|---|---|
| Duration | Till February 11, 2024 |
| Location | Queens Botanical Garden, 42-80 Crommelin Street, Flushing, NY 11355 |
| Website | astralumina.com |
| Tickets | feverup.com |
Somewhere Nowhere’s Teardrop Igloos
Visit Somewhere Nowhere’s Teardrop Igloos this weekend to experience one of the most amazing things to do in New York City! Discover a one-of-a-kind, personal wonderland with their brand-new igloos. Sip on cocktails, savour small bites, and enjoy champagne inside your private, heated igloo. Imagine a comfortable sofa, soft chairs, a built-in fireplace, and warm fur throw blankets setting up a cosy and perfect atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the exclusive Teardrop Igloos experience at Somewhere Nowhere in New York.
The breathtaking view and magical atmosphere make our igloos the perfect spot for intimate dinners, joyful gatherings, and unforgettable celebrations. This venue provides everything you need, whether you’re organising a fun party, a memorable family reunion, or a romantic date night. Each igloo can fit up to 5 people, making it a comfy spot to make great memories with your favourite people. Grab your tickets now for a fantastic experience that not only gives you a great view but also creates a magical atmosphere. It’s definitely one of the best things you can do in NYC this weekend.
| Name | Somewhere Nowhere NYC, Teardrop Igloos |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Mon-Tue: Closed | Wed: 5 pm–1 am | Thurs-Sat: 5 pm–4 am |
| Location | 112 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001, United States |
| Website | somewherenowherenyc.com |
| Booking | feverup.com |
See the New York Botanical Garden Glow
Prepare for a wonderful experience at the New York Botanical Garden with NYBG Glow, their fourth annual light celebration. With thousands of eco-friendly LED lights and seasonal decorations, this outdoor show transforms the garden into a glittering wonderland. As part of New York’s biggest holiday celebration, famous spots like the Haupt Conservatory and the LuEsther T. Mertz Library Building light up beautifully after sunset. The lights are synchronised, resulting in a breathtaking show with sound and eye-catching installations that you won’t want to miss.
Take a leisurely walk along the 1.5-mile colourful pathway filled with whimsical and picture-perfect displays. The Haupt Conservatory and Mertz Library Building shine brightly, reflecting the beauty of the gardens around them. It’s the perfect place to capture some family holiday photos. Your ticket gives you access to the Holiday Train Show in the Enid A. Make your evening even better by grabbing some drinks and light snacks available for purchase at NYBG’s outdoor bars or the Bronx Night Market Holiday Pop-Up. This makes it an ideal spot for a family weekend outing, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time in the most beautiful holiday setting in New York City.
| Name | NYBG GLOW (New York Botanical Garden Glow) |
|---|---|
| Duration | GLOW is available on select dates from November 17, 2023, to January 13, 2024, running each night from 5 to 10 pm |
| Location | 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458, United States |
| Website | nybg.org/event |
| Tickets | nybg.org/visit |
Explore the World of AI· Magination at ARTECHOUSE
Experience the “World of AI·magination” at ARTECHOUSE for a perfect family weekend outing. This immersive experience invites visitors of all ages to a world of wonder where human creativity meets artificial imagination. The project began with a concept designed by humans and turned into a stunning visual story with six scenes. They used advanced technology like NVIDIA hardware and generative AI tools, going through extensive research to overcome the limitations of machine learning models. The studio came up with clever ways to create clear, high-quality visuals by combining traditional 3D animation techniques with generative AI.
The “World of AI·magination” is built around a 20-minute movie experience with six scenes. Check out the Library of Magical Portals, where giant books are filled with dreams and algorithms. Experience the Symphony of Illusions, a scene that keeps changing, and wander through the Infinite Maze, where you can explore different realities. This exhibition seamlessly combines generative algorithms with human creativity, giving you a unique visual experience that blurs the lines between human creation and machine computation. Whether you adore creating artwork, animation or work in the field of artificial intelligence, this is a must-see event if you’re on the lookout for amazing weekend activities in New York.
| Exhibition Name | World of AI·Magination |
|---|---|
| Duration | Dec 1, 2023 – March 17, 2024 |
| Location | 439 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011, United States |
| Website | artechouse.com |
| Tickets | artechouse.com/tickets-nyc |
The FRIENDS™ Experience in New York City
If you and your friends are huge fans of the popular TV show FRIENDS, then The FRIENDS Experience in New York is a great place to have some memorable moments this weekend. This unique exhibition brings the beloved show to life in the city, known as The FRIENDS Experience: The One In New York City. If you love Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe, you absolutely can’t afford to miss it! The Experience lets you walk through recreated film sets, showcasing original outfits and props from the series. And for the ultimate touch, grab a cup of coffee and a snack at Central Perk.
Relive the magic of your favourite sitcom by sitting on the famous orange couch, sitting at Monica and Rachel’s kitchen table, relaxing in Joey and Chandler’s comfy chairs, and taking fun photos with an iconic cup of coffee from Central Perk. If you’re a fan of the show, this is a must-do activity this weekend. And don’t forget to stop by The FRIENDS Experience Store to shop for merchandise from your favourite TV show. It’s a weekend experience that every Friends enthusiast will love.
| Name | The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in New York City |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Mon-Tue: Closed; Wed-Sun: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. |
| Location | The Friends Experience, 130 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10010, United States |
| Website | friendstheexperience.com |
| Tickets | feverup.com |
Conclusion
The above list covers a diverse range of activities suitable for various individuals, whether you’re a tourist exploring New York City or a local seeking weekend fun with family and friends. From the enchanting Cirque du Soleil holiday show to the risqué and festive Santa’s Secret, there’s something for everyone. Broadway enthusiasts can catch the timeless “Merrily We Roll Along,” and nature lovers can explore the magical New York Botanical Garden Glow. Art enthusiasts can explore the World of AI·magination at ARTECHOUSE, while those seeking a nostalgic trip can visit The FRIENDS Experience. Finish your weekend with a stroll through Astra Lumina’s breathtaking celestial displays and the relaxing setting of Somewhere Nowhere’s Teardrop Igloos. Regardless of your preference, these top picks guarantee an unforgettable NYC weekend experience filled with laughter, magic, and shared moments.
