Best Things To Do In NYC This Week (November 3-9)
The first full week of November always feels like that in-between moment—fall’s still holding on, but the holiday buzz is starting to kick in. With so much happening, it’s easy to miss out on something good. That’s why this guide to the best things to do in NYC this week (November 3–9) rounds up the can’t-miss events, from food pop-ups to live shows worth stepping out for. And since a quick getaway can make the week even better, I’ve also added a few fun options just outside the city.
Just a quick heads-up: Always check the official website for the latest updates before you go, as details can change. And while entry is free, you might still need to RSVP or pay separately for food, drinks, or special activities.
Fun Things to Do in NYC This Week (Nov 3-9 Guide)
Free Fun Events
FAD Market – Fall Pop-Up at Empire Stores
The FAD Market brings together local artists, designers, and food vendors for the ultimate weekend browse-fest. It’s one of those free things to do in NYC next week, where you’ll walk in “just to look” and somehow leave with a few items.
- When: November 8-9, 2025
- Where: lobby of Empire Stores (53-83 Water Street, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://fadmarket.co
- Best For: Design lovers and early holiday shoppers.
JAPAN Fes
Skip the flight — JAPAN Fes brings Tokyo to the streets of NYC. From sizzling ramen and fluffy mochi to the smell of takoyaki in the air, it’s a full-on sensory takeover. Easily one of the top festivals in NYC this weekend, especially if your love language is carbs.
- When: November 8 & 15, 2025
- Where: East Village
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.japanfes.com
- Best For: Foodies and culture lovers.
Grand Bazaar NYC – One of a Kind Bazaar
If your weekend plans include shopping and people-watching, the Grand Bazaar NYC is where handmade treasures, local art, and creativity collide. It’s one of the best things to do in NYC this week November 3 9 Reddit users can’t stop recommending.
- When: November 9, 2025
- Where: 100 West 77th St., New York
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://grandbazaarnyc.org
- Best For: Shoppers and collectors.
Seaport Pumpkin Arch
Still holding onto pumpkin season? The Seaport Pumpkin Arch is one of those outdoor festivals in NYC this weekend that doubles as a photo hotspot — with glowing gourds and skyline views that make your fall feed shine.
- Best For: Couples and photography enthusiasts.
- When: Until November 17, 2025
- Where: Heineken Riverdeck, North Side of Pier 17 (89 South Street, New York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://theseaport.nyc
Nature Made Wellness Experience at TENSPACE
Need a break from the city grind? TENSPACE has turned wellness into an art form, where you can explore sensory spaces, sample vitamins, and reset your brain. It’s perfect if you’re hunting for things to do in NYC next week that feel more “self-care Sunday.”
- When: Until January 31, 2026
- Where: SoHo (434 Broadway, New York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.tenspacebrand.com
- Best For: Wellness seekers and anyone needing a mental reset.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular 2025
This one kicks off the city’s holiday magic early. Celebrating the Rockettes’ 100th anniversary, this year’s show brings back beloved numbers like “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “The Living Nativity,” plus a cheerful new Santa scene.
- When: November 6, 2025-January 4, 2026
- Where: Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Ave, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.rockettes.com
- Best For: Families and date nights.
The New York Comedy Festival
Looking for a laugh? The New York Comedy Festival has 200 comedians, 100 shows, and roughly one thousand punchlines. From comedy legends to rising comics, this lineup is what Time Out NYC this weekend dreams are made of.
- When: November 7-16, 2025
- Where: Multiple venues
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://nycomedyfestival.com
- Best For: Comedy lovers and date nights.
Blood Manor
Spooky season’s not quite over. If you missed the Halloween scares, Blood Manor is your final chance to scream before Santa season hits. Just maybe don’t bring your kid — unless they’re into haunted houses.
- When: Until November 8, 2025
- Where: 359 Broadway, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.bloodmanor.com
- Best For: Adrenaline junkies and fearless couples.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Thousands of glowing pumpkins still lighting up the Hudson? This festival mixes art, light, and a bit of magic, making it one of the things to do in NYC this weekend with family before winter really takes over.
- When: Until November 16, 2025
- Where: Van Cortlandt Manor (525 S Riverside, Croton-on-Hudson)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://pumpkinblaze.org
- Best For: Families, couples, and friends.
The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail
If you love Halloween and Christmas, this one’s your sweet spot. Walk through NYBG’s glowing trail with Jack Skellington and friends. It’s one of those things to do in NYC this weekend for couples that’s equal parts spooky and romantic.
- When: Until November 30, 2025
- Where: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://thenightmarebeforechristmaslighttrail.com
- Best For: Couples and Tim Burton fans.
Concerts
John Legend
Spend your evening with the smoothest voice in music. John Legend’s anniversary tour proves romance isn’t dead. If you’re curating your own list of top concerts in NYC 2025, this one deserves a top spot.
- When: November 4, 2025
- Where: Barclays Center (620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://johnlegend.com
- Best For: Date nights and music lovers.
Giveon
For this one, prepare your feelings. Giveon’s soulful baritone and heartbreak hit differently live. Add this one to your personal lineup of things to do in NYC this weekend if moody R&B is your comfort zone.
- When: November 6, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.giveonofficial.com
- Best For: R&B fans and date nights.
Playboi Carti
Bass, chaos, and mosh pits — Playboi Carti brings his wild energy to NYC for a night that’ll shake your sneakers loose. It’s not chill, it’s not quiet, but it’s unforgettable.
- When: November 6, 2025
- Where: Barclays Center (620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://tour.playboicarti.com
- Best For: Rap fans and live music lovers.
Boyce Avenue
End your week on a chill note with YouTube’s favorite brothers, Boyce Avenue. Their acoustic sets are nostalgic and soothing.
- When: November 7, 2025
- Where: Sony Hall (235 W 46th St, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.boyceavenue.com
- Best For: Soft rock fans and date nights.
You’ve got your plans set for this week. But why stop there? See how much more fun the city has to offer this month. We’ve made the ultimate plan for your entire November with our guide to Free & Paid Things to Do in NYC This November 2025.
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