November in New York is when things really start to get festive. Is it too early to put up the Rockefeller Christmas tree or blast Mariah Carey outside the 5th Avenue Macy's? That's up for debate. But in the weeks leading up to the iconic Thanksgiving Parade, the city is alive with falling leaves and the spirit of community. If you're tired of the old silent disco or holiday market, we've found some unique events taking place all across the city, so you can make the most of the season.

Breakfast for Dinner Comedy Show

Nov 6 | Apollo Bagels Williamsburg

Bagels and comedy is an unlikely combination, but it’s two of the best parts of living in New York. Why not embrace it? Apollo Bagels in Williamsburg is hosting Comedy UO’s Breakfast for Dinner show, with two runs at 7:00 and 9:15PM. Each ticket includes unlimited drinks, fresh OJ, and plenty of bagels. Comedy UO is known for its pop-up comedy shows in places like sports shops, auto repair centers, and Katz’s Deli. It’s not one to miss.

New York Comedy Festival

Nov 7 to Nov 16 | Across NYC

Things in the world may not seem particularly funny right now, but what else can we do but laugh? The jokes write themselves, and the comedians on this year’s stacked line-up are taking advantage. More than 200 comedians are performing in more than 100 shows, including Margaret Cho, Morgan Jay, and… uh, Louis C.K., somehow. Venues include Carnegie Hall, MSG, and the Beacon Theatre, though we’d recommend checking your local stand-up club, too.

Madre Block Party

Nov 9 | Greenpoint

It’s never too cold for a block party. Madre in Greenpoint is offering an all-ages neighborhood bash, in partnership with Olmo, Cocina Norte, and Yola Mezcal. Cocktails are available all day, but you can get a taste of Madre’s impressive bites (and that of their partners) from 12pm. Get there early before they sell out.

Offline Party

Nov 10 | Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

Sick of the screen? That makes two of us. Among many, these days. Offline Party seeks to offer a space free from blue light, fostering real connection and experiences. The Brooklyn event takes place at the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, so you can go back to the 50s in more ways than one. From 9PM to 12AM, ditch the screens, turn up the music, and remember that doomscrolling doesn’t equal reality. Also, Andrew Yang is hosting it. For some reason.

New York Common Pantry Friendsgiving

Nov 13| Central Park

If you’re looking to give back this Thanksgiving, you can sponsor 357 meals for families in need in New York by purchasing a ticket to New York Common Pantry’s Friendsgiving. Sponsored by Restaurant Associates, the event includes a 3-course meal and a drinks reception, where you can learn more about NYCP’s initiatives and mission.

Sculpture-Making with Rev. Joyce McDonald

Nov 15| Bronx Museum

Reverend Joyce McDonald, a sculptor whose work is currently on display at the Bronx Museum, will be leading a free, drop-in sculpture workshop for all ages from 1 to 4PM. Afterwards, head to the Ministry Exhibit, where McDonald’s career work is on display, showcasing her early sculptures using air-dry clay to recent glazed ceramics.

New York Philosophy Club

November 19 | Brooklyn Masonic Temple

Struggling to find the meaning of life this autumn? Need some guidance? We get it, and so does the New York Philosophy Club. They host free, curated philosophy events, discussing chosen topics in three half-hour sessions with rotating groups. The Clinton Hill chapter is hosting at the Brooklyn Masonic Temple from 7PM to 10PM. You don’t need to be the next Camus or Hume to join – all experience levels are welcome.

Fall Jazz w/ Cixso

November 20 | Cafe Erzulie

Enjoy free autumn jazz and Haitian-inspired food and drinks at Cafe Erzulie in Brooklyn. Cixso is an Erzulie regular, playing global electric jazz tunes from 6:00PM. Can’t make it? There are plenty of other jazz and DJ gigs on this month, and they often upload live performances on their SoundCloud.

Yalla Fest

November 22 | 873 Broadway

Celebrate the culture and food of Lebanon at Yalla Fest, hosted by Edy Massih (of Edy’s Grocer fame). You’ll find dozens of Lebanese and Middle Eastern vendors selling delicious mezze bites and handmade goods, along with dance and music performances from the region. Entry is $20, but you can sign up for the VIP Brunch Hour to enjoy a brunch spread by Edy himself, mimosas and wine, and a custom Yalla Fest goodie bag. Even better, all proceeds go to the Lebanese Red Cross & World Central Kitchen.

Looking for some Thanksgiving meals? Check out our Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving recommendations!