Sure, the pumpkins are still hanging out on the porch steps and the clock on the microwave is still running an hour ahead, but the calendar has flipped to November, so it’s time to start thinking about fun things to do in the eleventh month. You know, in order to start the end of your 2025 with a bang.
This year, the best things to do in November cover a diverse range: from light displays that will help you shake off the gloom of the dark nights and celebrations dedicated to sea life and Native American culture, to a handful of sensational holiday gatherings and even a swashbuckling shindig, you’re spoiled for choice. To say nothing of that legendary Thanksgiving parade in the Big Apple. Scroll down to find a great November event taking place near you.
Native American Festival & Powwow – Stone Mountain, Georgia
Start November at Stone Mountain with its annual Native American Festival & Powwow (runs through November 3), Georgia’s biggest celebration of Native American culture. This vibrant event offers a full weekend of traditional music, dance and storytelling, giving all in attendance a chance to experience the richness of the state’s indigenous heritage firsthand. There will also be artisan markets, food stalls, craft demonstrations and plenty of hands-on activities for the whole family.
Powell’s Books in Portland, Oregon (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
Portland Book Festival – Portland, Oregon
The first Saturday of November (November 2) will see the return of the Portland Book Festival to the City of Roses, celebrating the written word in all its forms. This beloved event brings together authors from across the nation and the local region for readings, panel discussions, book signings and interactive workshops. You’ll also get the chance to explore local independent bookstores and discover up-and-coming writers.
National Peanut Festival – Dothan, Alabama
Start November surrounded by shells at the National Peanut Festival in Dothan (runs through November 9), the largest celebration of the humble ‘nut in the nation. This beloved event honors the region’s agricultural heritage with plenty of tasty peanut-inspired snacks along with tons of fun for all ages. Expect a classic carnival complete with rides and games, pageants, livestock competitions, cake-decorating contests, nightly fireworks displays and thrilling car and truck shows. Concerts this year will feature performances from the likes of Darrel Qualls Band, Anne Wilson and more.
Sitka, Alaska. (Photo Credit: Joni / Adobe Stock)
WhaleFest – Sitka, Alaska
The delightful small town of Sitka will once again celebrate sea life during its annual WhaleFest (November 7-9). This tradition pays tribute to Alaska’s magnificent marine life through an entertaining mix of science, culture and community, with this year’s theme being “Entwined.” Attendees can look forward to educational lectures from marine biologists, guided wildlife cruises where whales often steal the show and storytelling sessions that highlight Alaska’s deep connection to the Pacific.
The Rio Grande Birding Festival – Harlingen, Texas
Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike will want to make their way to Harlingen for the Rio Grande Birding Festival (November 5-9). This annual celebration brings together experts, photographers and birdwatchers from across the country and world to explore the incredible diversity of bird life in the Rio Grande Valley. Expect guided birding tours, informative workshops and engaging presentations, as well as the opportunity to shop for quality, nature-inspired products.
Aerial view of downtown Scottsdale, Arizona. (Photo Credit: Matt Gush/Adobe)
Canal Convergence – Scottsdale, Arizona
Water, light and art will once again come together in the desert during Canal Convergence (November 7-16), Scottsdale’s signature celebration of public art. This free, open-to-all event transforms Old Town Scottsdale’s Waterfront into a glowing nighttime wonderland, where artists from around the world install eye-catching, light-based works that shimmer on the canal waters. Stroll the waterfront to take in the displays, which this year have the theme “SHOWTIME!” focusing on performance as public art.
Pirate Invasion – Beaufort, North Carolina
Head to Beaufort for the annual Pirate Invasion (November 14-16), when the historic town transforms into a swashbuckling pirate haven full of fun. Expect costumed pirates roaming the streets, interactive shows, treasure hunts, live music and plenty of food and drink for those living that “salt life.”
Denver Christkindlmarkt in Denver, Colorado
Denver Christkindlmarket – Denver, Colorado
The much-loved Denver Christkindlmarket returns on November 21 to officially usher in the holiday season with its charming German-inspired atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown, the market features an authentic German-style vibe with local and European crafts and food vendors (think bratwurst, strudel and hot spiced gluhwein), along with plenty of festive entertainment.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival – Kona, Hawai‘i
The Aloha State’s oldest food and drink-focused event returns to the Big Island for its 54th annual edition (November 7-16). For 10 flavorful days, visitors can enjoy a full lineup of coffee tastings, barista competitions, farm tours and educational seminars highlighting the history and artistry behind the famed Kona coffee. Beyond the bean, the festival offers live music, local food, a lantern parade, art stroll and much more.
Window display at A Christmas Story Comes Home. (Photo via South Shore CVA)
‘A Christmas Story’ Comes Home – Hammond, Indiana
Fans of the iconic holiday movie “A Christmas Story” will want to make their way to the Indiana State Welcome Center in Hammond for the return of “A Christmas Story Comes Home” (November 15 – December 30), an immersive display that brings Ralphie’s tale to life with meticulously recreated sets of memorable scenes, props and even some decorations straight from the film. Hammond is the hometown of Jean Shepherd, whose writing inspired the movie and the fictional city of Hohman where the film is set. Just don’t stick your tongue to the light post outside!
Lightscape – Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Botanic Garden will once again transform into an illuminated wonderland during Lightscape (November 14 – January 4). As the dark November nights descend on the Windy City, visitors to Lightscape will be able to stroll through brilliant displays of colorful lights, sparkling sculptures and immersive installations located along winding paths, themed light tunnels and artful projections. And yes, your pics are going to pop on social media.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade clown and balloons on the streets of New York City. (photo via Flickr/Anthony Quintano)
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – New York City, New York
Outside of turkey and stuffing, there aren’t many more traditional Thanksgiving experiences than the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade (November 27), which celebrates its 99th edition this year. Expect new floats including a Pop Mart float with a giant inflatable Labubus, a Mario balloon celebrating the character’s 40th anniversary, and a new “Shrek 5” balloon, in addition to the classic floats and a lineup of musical performances and marching bands.
Christmas at Country Club Plaza, Kansas City (Photo via David DeHetre / Flickr / Creative Commons)
Country Club Plaza Light Switch-On – Kansas City, Missouri
There’s nothing like Thanksgiving Night in Kansas City, as the Christmas lights are switched on at the city’s famous Country Club Plaza. Get there early to admire the atmosphere of this grand outdoor shopping plaza inspired by the architecture of Seville, Spain.
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